Flooring is a critical part of any home or office, as it provides comfort and protection for your feet and plays a role in the overall aesthetic of the space.
Many different flooring materials are available, but tiles are often popular.
Durable, flexible and easy to clean, tiles are always in demand, and the sheer amount of customisation available means this flooring option can work for both traditional and contemporary decor.
So, if you want to find the perfect tiles for your needs, this comprehensive guide will explore the types of tiles that are best for flooring and some crucial factors to consider when deciding.
Let’s go.
Porcelain and ceramic tiles
These tiles are probably the most popular types of tiles used for flooring. They are made from strong materials, highly durable, and easy to clean. Porcelain and ceramic are similar in many ways, but porcelain is more durable.
Ceramic is cheaper, but if you’re laying the tiles in high-traffic areas, investing in porcelain is best. What makes these tiles even more popular is their diversity.
Available in a wide range of colours, designs and sizes, you can find the perfect match for your home or office.
Encaustic tiles
Encaustic tiles are made using clay and mixed with different pigment colours. The great thing about the unique manufacturing process is that no two tiles are the same.
These tiles were very popular in the Victorian era, but they have seen a recent resurgence in popularity, thanks to their timeless appeal. If you’re looking for something genuinely original, encaustic tiles could be the perfect choice for your flooring.
However, because each tile is unique, it can be challenging to find matching tiles if you need to replace one at a later stage.
So, if you choose encaustic tiles for your flooring, ensure you buy enough to complete the job.
Terracotta tiles
Terracotta tiles are a great option if you’re after a more rustic look. Made from natural clay, these tiles have a unique texture and appearance.
Terracotta requires regular sealing and maintenance, but if you’re willing to do the work, these tiles can give your home or office an incredible makeover.
Stone tiles
For something different, stone tiles are definitely worth considering. No two stone floors will be alike as they’re made from natural materials.
Stone is also a very durable material, so you won’t have to worry about children or pets damaging them.
Some people struggle to lay natural stone tiles, but if you have previous knowledge and the proper pro tiling tools, you should be fine.
Quartz tiles
If you’re looking for a tile that looks like stone but is easier to lay and maintain, then quartz could be the tile choice for you. Quartz comes from natural materials but is specially manufactured so that it will last for a long time.
Quartz is also non-porous, making it resistant to staining and easy to keep clean. Quartz tiles come in various colours and styles to find the perfect match for your home or office.
Glass tiles
Available in a wide range of colours and designs, glass tiles can add a touch of luxury to any space. The tiles are easy to clean and maintain, making them a sought-after option.
However, these tiles can scratch easily and will break if you drop something heavy on them. We recommend you only use them for display and avoid laying them if you have pets or children.
Marble tiles
Is there anything more beautiful than marble? These tiles are truly luxurious and inject elegance into any space. Marble, when laid correctly, will last for a long time and can handle a lot of traffic.
However, marble is highly porous, and it can stain easily. You can reduce the risks of this by choosing tiles with a polished or honed finish, preserving the marble and keeping your floor looking fantastic.
Slate tiles
Slate tiles are perfect for those who want a natural look for their home or office. These natural tiles exude aesthetic appeal and offer a unique finish.
The only downside to slate is that it can be pretty brittle, so you need to be careful when handling it. We recommend that you get professional help when laying these tiles, as they can be challenging to apply correctly.
Mosaic tiles
Mosaic tiles are absolutely stunning and immediately add visual interest to any space. These small tiles are made from a range of different materials, including glass, ceramic, stone and metal.
Mosaic tiles usually combine to make patterns or designs with different colours and textures. The only downside to mosaic tiles is that they can be quite time-consuming to lay correctly. However, the result is definitely worth it!
Quarry tiles
Quarry tiles are perfect for those who want a rustic look for their home or office. These tiles use natural clay and create a very unique and original finish. Quarry tiles can handle a lot of stress, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
The only downside to quarry tiles is that they require regular sealing and maintenance. However, if you’re willing to do the work, these tiles can give your home or office an incredible makeover.
Choosing the right tiles for your needs
Some tiles are easy to lay, while others require professional knowledge, so if you’re planning on a DIY project, it might be best to stick with porcelain or ceramic because they’re simple to use.
However, there are plenty of tiling courses available if you’d like to learn professional skills.
You should also consider your budget, as natural stone and marble tiles require a more significant investment than most other options. But, let’s face it; the stunning finish these beautiful tiles offer is worth the money.
We hope this guide has helped you narrow your choices and find the perfect option for your home or office. If you’d like to discuss our convenient and cost-effective tiling courses, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team.