Elevate your space with tile flooring

Should you choose ceramic or porcelain tile?

Ceramic and porcelain tile are both made from clay, but differences in manufacturing affect their performance.

Ceramic tile is available in a huge selection of colors, patterns, and finishes. It offers style and value for many residential floors, walls, backsplashes, and decorative projects.

Porcelain tile is made from denser clay and fired at higher temperatures. It is generally denser, less porous, and highly durable. This makes porcelain an excellent choice for high-traffic rooms and moisture-prone areas.

Our team can help you compare porcelain and ceramic tile based on your room, style, performance needs, and budget.

What is the difference between glazed and unglazed tile?

Glazed tile has a protective surface coating that can add color, pattern, texture, or shine. Glazing creates extensive design possibilities, including realistic marble, stone, and other natural looks.

Unglazed tile does not have this additional surface layer. It typically has a more natural appearance and can provide excellent durability. Some unglazed tiles may require sealing, depending on the material and installation location.

What tile shapes are available?

Tile comes in far more than traditional squares. Rectangular, hexagonal, subway, mosaic, and geometric tiles can give your space a completely different look.

Rectangular tiles create clean lines, while hexagons and geometric designs add visual interest. Smaller mosaics are popular for backsplashes, shower floors, borders, and accents.

Even a simple change in shape can turn tile into a focal point.

What tile size should you choose?

Tile size can dramatically affect how a room feels. Large-format tiles create fewer grout lines, producing a clean, streamlined appearance. They are popular for modern kitchens, bathrooms, and larger spaces.

Smaller tiles provide more detail and are especially useful for backsplashes, shower floors, and decorative designs.

Consider your room's dimensions, layout, grout lines, and overall style. The right proportions can make your finished space feel more balanced.

How do you choose a tile color?

Tile comes in virtually every color imaginable, from white, cream, and beige to gray, brown, black, blue, and bold accent shades. You can also find tile that recreates marble, stone, concrete, and wood.

Light colors can make a room feel brighter and more open. Darker shades add depth and contrast, while neutrals offer long-term versatility.

Consider your cabinets, countertops, walls, furniture, and lighting. Comparing samples alongside these finishes can help you create a cohesive design.

Where can tile be installed?

Tile is one of the most versatile surfaces for residential and commercial spaces. Depending on the product, you can use tile for:

• Kitchen and bathroom flooring
• Entryways and hallways
• Laundry rooms and mudrooms
• Kitchen backsplashes
• Shower floors and walls
• Fireplace surrounds
• Bathroom walls
• Decorative wall accents

Different applications require different performance characteristics. Always choose tile rated for its intended location, particularly for floors and wet areas.

Is tile flooring easy to maintain?

Keeping tile flooring clean is simple. Sweep, vacuum, or dust mop regularly to remove dirt and grit. Wipe spills promptly and damp mop as needed with a cleaner recommended for your tile.

Do not forget the grout. Periodic grout cleaning helps prevent dirt and discoloration from building up between tiles. Certain tile and grout products may also require sealing.

Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers unless recommended by the manufacturer. Following product-specific care instructions will help preserve your tile's appearance.

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