Types of Tile

Tile is the best material to use in a bathroom no doubt. Some people might like slabs for shower walls but you certainly can’t use slab on the shower pan or bathroom floor because slabs are too slippery. Tile is a great choice for flooring. Some tile works better than others for certain tile installations. This page discusses different types of tile, what is good about them, and in some cases, bad about them.

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is made from clay. The clay is formed, glazed, and cooked to the hard panel type material that we know. Some ceramic is not glazed. This is true with Saltillo tile. Saltillo tile isn’t even heated in a kiln, it is put outside to dry in the sun. For that reason, chickens and other animals sometimes walk on it and leave prints. Ceramic tile is not expensive. It is durable enough as long as it is installed correctly. An experienced tile installation contractor will install it properly.

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tile is much like ceramic, however, the clay is different and it is cooked hotter. Therefore, porcelain tile is stronger than ceramic tile. Some porcelain has a glaze and some does not. Of course, a glaze will provide stain protection for your tile. Porcelain tile is usually more expensive than ceramic tile. This tile tends to wear out the tile installers saw blade during installation. However, it is less likely to chip or get damaged during installation. For this reason, tile contractors and bathroom remodel contractors appreciate this tile.

Natural Stone

In my opinion, the best looking types of tile are in the natural stone family. No two pieces are exactly the same. However, this material has some drawbacks. This type of tile is usually more expensive than ceramic or porcelain. Furthermore, it can scratch and stain much easier than a glazed ceramic or porcelain tile. Some stone doesn’t do well with water. White marble tends to yellow in a bathroom remodel. Slate can soften and flake apart if it gets too wet too often, which is bad for a tile installation.

Glass Tile

Glass tile is generally used for accents these days. Also, glass tile is used a lot for kitchen backsplashes. Glass tile is stain resistant, but comparatively expensive. A special saw blade is needed as to not chip the tile while cutting. Glass tile can also cut the installer much easier than the other types of tile.