It’s obvious that every room needs different types of tiles. And choosing can be difficult, but no one can make your dream house come to life as you can. So, it’s important that you know as much about tiles as you can.

The correct tile can influence the ambiance of your entire house and ease of care. With the numerous choices offered today, it’s no wonder that a home designer or homeowner questions, “How many types of tiles are out there and which one is perfect for which corner in your household?”

The types of tiles available, their properties and benefits, the most suitable area to use them, as well as a few tips you can consider will be presented in this tile guide.

How Many Types of Tiles Are Available?

Many times, homeowners have one thing to inquire, “What is the total number of tiles that are available?” No, this can be fixed because suppliers release brand-new materials, finishes, and innovations every year.

The following are major types of frequently used tiles:

1. Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are a popular home renovation, best quality tiles and excellent go-to as it sits at the intersection of affordability and versatility. 

As it's made from natural clay that is fired at an extremely high heat, this tile type works well on both wall and light-to medium-traffic floors. 

Best Uses

• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Bedroom floors
• Wall cladding

Advantages

• Budget-friendly
• Available in countless colours and patterns
• Easy to clean
• Moisture resistant
• Lightweight

Limitations

• Less durable than vitrified or porcelain tiles
• Can chip under heavy impact

2. Vitrified Tiles

One of our favorite tiles for day-to-day use. 

Manufactured using silica and clay and fired at super high temperatures, it’s one of the strongest tiles around with very low water absorption. 

Best Uses

• Living rooms
• Hallways
• Dining rooms
• Commercial spaces

Advantages

• Highly durable
• Scratch resistant
• Low maintenance
• Glossy and elegant appearance
• Excellent stain resistance

3. Porcelain Tiles

It’s a premium version of ceramic tiles and is much denser, harder, and less porous due to its tightly packed structure. This tile design fits for modern homeowners who want it all: style, durability and low maintenance. 

Best Uses

• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Outdoor patios
• Balconies
• High-traffic areas

Advantages

• Extremely durable
• Water resistant
• Frost resistant
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Easy to maintain

4. Natural Stone Tiles

If you can’t resist natural beauty, stone can be your tile choice. Unavoidable because of unique tones, textures and grain for every piece. 

Top-tier choices are:

• Slate
• Travertine
• Limestone
• Sandstone

Best Uses

• Luxury homes
• Outdoor pathways
• Feature walls
• Premium interiors

Advantages

• Unique appearance
• Long-lasting
• Natural elegance
• Adds property value

5. Marble Tiles

Marble-the embodiment of luxury for centuries; it continues to be used in elegant interiors today. Each natural tile is unique, ensuring a one-of-a-kind floor finish.

Best Uses

• Living rooms
• Foyers
• Luxury bathrooms
• Staircases

Advantages

• Premium appearance
• Naturally cool surface
• Timeless beauty
• Enhances resale value

Considerations

• Requires periodic sealing
• More expensive than manufactured tiles

6. Granite Tiles

One of the strongest natural stones on the market; its durability makes it suitable for high traffic areas.

Best Uses

• Kitchen floors
• Commercial buildings
• Staircases
• Outdoor spaces

Advantages

• Extremely durable
• Scratch resistant
• Heat resistant
• Long lifespan

7. Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles are individual smaller pieces that form attractive designs. Their individuality is a popular way to create immediate impact.

Best Uses

• Shower walls
• Kitchen backsplashes
• Decorative panels
• Swimming pools

Advantages

• Creative designs
• Excellent visual appeal
• Perfect for curved surfaces

8. Cement Tiles

Cement tiles, handcrafted and characterized by their bold colors and designs, are currently very popular for a retro look.

Best Uses

• Accent floors
• Cafés
• Entryways
• Feature walls

Advantages

• Distinctive patterns
• Long-lasting
• Artistic appearance

9. Quarry Tiles

Contrary to what the name may suggest, quarry tiles are not cut from stone; they are made from red clay and kiln fired unfired.

Best Uses

• Outdoor flooring
• Commercial kitchens
• Patios

Advantages

• Slip resistant
• Durable
• Excellent for wet areas

10. Terracotta Tiles

Natural earthy tone of terracottas creates inviting rooms that appear timeless. 

Best Uses

• Courtyards
• Rustic homes
• Outdoor patios
• Farmhouses

Advantages

• Natural appearance
• Eco-friendly
• Comfortable underfoot

11. Glass Tiles 

Mostly used for decoration and to give brightness by reflecting light. 

Best Uses

• Bathroom walls
• Kitchen backsplashes
• Accent walls

Advantages

• Stylish
• Easy to clean
• Moisture resistant
• Reflects light beautifully

12. Wooden Finish Tiles 

Love wooden floor but worried about the maintenance? You got it!

Wood finish tiles give an authentic wood look and the functionality of ceramic or porcelain floor tiles. 

Best Uses

• Bedrooms
• Living rooms
• Dining rooms

Advantages

• Termite-proof
• Water resistant
• Low maintenance
• Authentic wood appearance

13. Digital Printed Tiles

The evolution of printing technology in tiles helps you achieve limitless designs and textures.

Digitally printed tiles can resemble many different finishes such as:

• Marble
• Wood
• Concrete
• Fabric
• Stone
• Abstract art

14. Subway Tiles

These tiles are still one of the major hits in a contemporary space. Their simple rectangular shape goes with virtually any décor trend. 

Best Uses

• Kitchen backsplashes
• Bathroom walls
• Utility areas

Advantages

• Timeless design
• Affordable
• Easy to maintain

Which Tiles Are Best for Every Room?

Room	Recommended Tile
Living Room	Vitrified, Porcelain, Marble
Bedroom	Wooden Finish, Ceramic
Kitchen Floor	Porcelain, Vitrified
Kitchen Wall	Ceramic, Subway
Bathroom Floor	Anti-skid Porcelain
Bathroom Wall	Ceramic, Glass
Balcony	Porcelain, Quarry
Outdoor Area	Granite, Quarry, Stone
Staircase	Granite, Vitrified

How to Choose the Best Quality Tiles

As there are so many different kinds of tiles to choose from this is going to require a touch more brains than simply picking out a nice design.

Keep these factors in mind:

1. Water Absorption

Less water absorption equals lasting strength. This is important for bathrooms and kitchens.

2. Slip Resistance

Select anti-slip or non-skid finishes in damp rooms.

3. PEI Rating

It’s about the stone wear resistance. This "score" shows how well the stone will stand up to wear. The higher the number, the more traffic the stone can take.

4. Tile Thickness

Overall the thicker the tiles, the better for strength in flooring use.

5. Finish

Popular finishes include:

• Glossy
• Matte
• Satin
• Rustic
• Textured

Choose the finish based on room use.

6. Maintenance

Some materials here need to be sealed, but some just need to be cleaned regularly.

FAQs

Q1. Which are the best quality tiles?

Generally, porcelain and vitrified tiles are among the highest quality tiles.

Q2. Which tile is best for bathrooms?

Anti-skid porcelain tiles are well suited for bathroom floors, while ceramic and glass tile work best for walls.

Q3. Which tiles are easiest to maintain?

Vitrified and porcelain tiles are simple to maintain and resistant to stains, moisture, and scratches.

Q4. Are wooden finish tiles better than real wood?

Yes. Wooden finish tiles provide the same aesthetics as natural wood but with water-resistant and termite-proof qualities, in addition to being easy to clean.

Q5. How many types of tiles should I consider before buying?

There are many varieties of tiles to consider but comparing major tile types: ceramic, porcelain, vitrified, natural stone, and decorative specialty tiles should be sufficient.

Conclusion

No room in your house should overlook the beauty, utility, or longevity of floor or wall finishes, and learning the many options available in tile will ensure you select materials to suit each room, not simply what's pretty.

Whether you are decorating a chic living room, a water-resistant bathroom, or a practical kitchen, the right choice of tile can make it more comfortable and more valuable for the future.

If you are uncertain about which one to choose, then talk to a tile expert who can advise you, and allow you to compare both the finishes, sizes, and material you require and finally help you select the tile that is just right for you.

The right quality tile isn't just the most expensive; it's whatever suits you and your budget the most.

Learn More: How to Choose the Perfect Room Tiles Design for Every Space