Perhaps one of the most difficult decisions when making changes to a property is flooring. There is a level of permanence in doing so that doesn't exist with other elements. You can repaint the walls, furniture can be replaced, but flooring usually doesn't merit changing unless there is major refurbishment in the works.
One stylish and varied option is tile floors. In fact, you may be surprised about just how many types of tile flooring there are available.
Our review will help you gain new insight into the world of tiles, meaning your chances of getting it right the first time will go up tenfold. Let us now consider 5 common yet varied options of tiles for your home.
1. Porcelain Tiles
Among the different types of ceramic tile flooring, there is a clear winner when it comes to sturdiness and that is porcelain.
Porcelain tiles are particularly durable to the elements, due to them not being very porous. They are baked at high temperatures, with high amounts of quartz and silica leading them to be extremely dense. This means they are not likely to crack in freezing weather or fade over time.
They are also among the types of tile flooring that find themselves on the coveted list of being low maintenance, extremely easy, and quick to clean. For this reason, they are popular in kitchens and areas of high traffic, particularly in a commercial setting.
All of this comes at a price though, as they tend to be more expensive. In addition, as they tend to come in larger dimensions and are harder to cut a professional eye is best when it comes to laying them.
2. Granite Tiles
This natural stone is extremely hard and a natural choice for areas of high foot traffic. This durable floor tile is resistant to flaking, scratching, and other means of damage due to its slow cooling process.
It also has the added benefit of not absorbing water or stains easily. For this reason, it is a good option for bathrooms, wetrooms, commercial locations, and outside areas. They are also resistant to acids, a reason why they are also popular for kitchen countertops.
Granite can come with many varying types of finishes so it is important to be aware of what is best for your floor. Sandblasted granite tiles are a good anti-slip option as well as the Flamed finished granite tiles just to name a few.
The added benefit is that their striking color means they are eye-catching so if you are looking for a floor tile that is also a feature then it would be worth considering granite.
3. Marble Tiles
Perhaps the most decadent among the different types of tile flooring, marble tiles have a long history. Both Greeks and Romans lauded the effect of marble, mining the stone using hammers, wedges pulleys, and other primitive but effective equipment.
Part of the appeal for those and ancient times, as well as for us, is the beautiful and distinctive veins that run through them.
The elegance that having marble tile floors does comes at a cost. Marble tiles are normally more pricey than their cousins as well as being rather porous. This means that marble floors are susceptible to stains and after spills.
They also chip rather easily, meaning that if you are to choose to elevate a room with marble flooring, you must treat it with some form of sealant.
4. Quarry Tiles
Typically found outdoors the curious name of these tiles often throws people off about where they are made. Rather than being made in a quarry, the name is in reference to the quarried materials that are used to make them.
As you can imagine, after the ground materials have been baked in temperatures touching 2000 degrees quarry tiles are extremely hard and durable, leading them to be popular for outside use. They are also not very porous, another factor of them being more popular in areas where there is a regular presence of water, but they can and have been used for inside use as well.
They are however susceptible to staining, meaning that you may need to be selective about where you choose to lay them. This means, for example, that when making your selection among the different types of kitchen floor tiles quarry tiles are ones that are best to stay away from.
5. Limestone Tiles
The material used for the pyramids, limestone quite clearly can stand the test of time when used for flooring. Their distinctive finish and color set them apart among the different types of tile flooring, with them being often confused for wood. With that in mind, if you are looking for a natural, rustic yet individual feel, limestone may be for you.
They are also very durable. In fact, limestone tiles are less likely to scratch than marble and even granite surfaces. Being a natural rock however they are porous. To combat this it is important to treat limestone surfaces with sealant.
In addition, care is needed when cleaning it so avoid cleaning products with vinegar and acids and instead choose pH neutral products.
Getting Familiar With the Different Types of Tile Flooring
If you are about to invest in refurbishing or building a new property, choosing the wrong materials, to begin with, can be one of the main causes for disappointment down the line. We hope our insight into the different types of tile flooring will help you avoid this potential calamity and push you in the direction that is best for you.
When you finally make that decision there is only one choice when it comes to sourcing and fitting your new flooring. We at National Floors Direct have years of experience in the trade and would love to help you get and install the flooring that you dream of.
Check out our tile gallery and get a free in-home estimate today!
