Tiling a space is a cost-effective and easy option for anyone looking to undertake a renovation project. Whether it’s a simple kitchen backsplash or tiling a whole bathroom, it can transform the space.
There are all sorts of tiles out there for all different uses including outdoor patios, flooring, and walls. It’s a hugely popular choice of material for homes and commercial properties as it’s hard-wearing, easy to clean and versatile.
But with so many options out there, which is best for what use? Below, we’ll go through the most commonly used tiles in the industry and where they’re best placed.
Let’s dive in.
Ceramic
Kicking this off with perhaps the most popular tile out there is the ceramic tile. Known for its versatility, you can use ceramic tiles for almost any indoor project. They’re also a great option for tiling novices as they’re cheaper to buy and easier to cut.
Ceramic tiles are available in a wide range of styles and colours. You could use them in any kitchen and bathroom remodel for an elegant finish at an affordable price, though porcelain may be a better option for flooring.
Porcelain
The more expensive cousin of ceramic tile is porcelain. These tiles are fired at a higher temperature point, making them a little bit more durable. This is another tile type that comes in a variety of colours and finishes for whatever your space needs.
Porcelain tiles are easy to maintain and water-resistant, making them a good choice for a bathroom or wetroom. Their density makes them the better choice for high-traffic areas and flooring over ceramic tiles. Readily available and relatively cheap compared to natural stone, porcelain will continue to be popular with homeowners.
Cork
Cork tiles are extremely lightweight, making them an excellent choice for walls and even cabinetry. Cork is also soft and cushioned underfoot, so it’s great for both noise reduction and if there are young children in the home.
While it may look water-absorbant, cork is naturally resistant to water which makes it a great choice for bathrooms. Choosing a cork tile is an eco-friendly and economical choice for anything looking for a tile choice that’s more unusual while still being stylish.
Glass
With a range of styles available, water resistance, and versatility, the glass tile is another great option for home projects. The shimmering look of a glass tile when it catches the light has a very pretty effect – so it’s no wonder this style has skyrocketed in popularity recently.
To make the most of this tile type place it in eye-catching areas, like kitchen backsplashes. Glass tiles work well in a smaller space like a cloakroom, as the reflective surface can make the room feel more spacious.
Slate
Slate is a natural stone that comes in a range of colours and sizes. Its unique textured surface adds a subtle vibrancy to any space. This versatile material can be used indoors or outside.
You’ll often find slate tiles used in roofing because it’s a durable, yet lightweight material that can weather the elements. However, they can be on the expensive side as the process of extracting shale at the quarry is resource-intensive.
Rubber
A slightly different offering to the rest is the rubber tile, which is made from recycled rubber to create a durable, non-slip surface. Rubber is suitable for high-traffic areas in homes and commercial spaces alike.
Rubber tiles work well in gyms or playrooms for children, as its soft finish is suitable for any room where there may be a safety issue. Rubber tiles also work well in home studios as it has better sound absorption than other materials.
Limestone
This type of tile is made from sedimentary rock that results in a beautiful pale finish. Limestone comes in natural colours, often with an earthy undertone that adds warmth to any room.
Limestone is a good option for flooring due to its durability and easy maintenance. It’s also great for keeping floors cool, so it works well in outdoor environments like patios. Its mid-range price point makes it an attractive and long-lasting option for anyone looking to tile their home.
Mosaic
First popularised by the Ancient Romans and standing the test of time since then, the mosaic tile is a great option for those looking to get their own customised look in their home improvement project.
For those with an artistic inclination, mosaic tiles offer the opportunity to create intricate designs and patterns using these tiny tiles. These make them suitable for anywhere a bit of design flair is needed like bathrooms, hallways and even swimming pools. They’re also great options for awkward spaces due to the small size of each tile.
Concrete
This tile is traditionally the mainstay of outdoor areas and commercial spaces. However, the minimalist trend has seen concrete enter the home in recent years, with polished concrete floors becoming a trendy flooring choice.
While the price of concrete has increased in recent years, these tiles are still a cost-effective option for those looking to redesign their outdoor space. You can use it for pretty much any home project such as bathroom countertops and flooring.
Marble
We saved the most luxurious option for last. Marble is a timeless and classic tile choice for most situations including luxe bathrooms, designer kitchen countertops and even outdoor spaces. The unique marbling effect in, available in more subtle or unusual colours, is truly beautiful.
Marble is naturally cooling, so it’s a good choice for rooms that get a lot of sunlight. However, it’s one of the most expensive tile options so should be used sparingly for those on a budget.
Wrapping up
We hope this comprehensive guide to tile choices gives you the confidence to choose the best material for your project. With different price points, finishes and uses, there’s something for everyone.
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