The Complete Guide to Buying Tile

Tile has been used for thousands of years; the earliest examples are from Egypt around 4,000 BC. Clearly they’ve stood the test of time, and for good reasons. Tile is durable, easy to maintain, and many variations are made from natural and easy to find materials which means they’re also eco-friendly and hypoallergenic.

The options are endless... literally. There are options in material, size, color, pattern, etc. We’re going to dive in to six of the most widely used materials in the tile industry, and break down the specifics that will help you differentiate which is best for your project. Since tile is typically used in wet areas of the home, we will discuss the water infiltration properties of each. Some people are surprised to learn that grout is not waterproof! No matter what type of tile you buy, you should always be sure to seal the grout regularly. We'll also discuss the composition, cleaning and maintenance and average cost of each. Here we go!

CERAMIC

Composition

Ceramic tiles are made with coarse clay and water, formed into shape and then heated and dried. They are typically additive-free.

Location & Water Infiltration

Ceramic tile is widely used in residential applications. It's safe to be installed on the floor or walls and will hold up in high traffic areas. At it’s core ceramic is a rather porous tile, however the majority of options on the market today are glazed, which seals and protects the tile from water infiltration.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Glazed ceramic tile requires little to no maintenance, however it’s recommended to seal the grout annually. It can be cleaned with soap and water or a mild cleaning solution made for tile.

Average Cost

$1 - $35/sq ft

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PORCELAIN

Composition

Porcelain tiles are also made of clay, though it’s typically a finer powder than ceramic tile, which makes it more dense. It also includes notable levels of quartz and a group of commonly found minerals called feldspars.

Location & Water Infiltration

Porcelain tiles are safe to be used on the floor and walls and will also hold up in high traffic areas. It’s a less porous tile than ceramic, therefore the concern of water infiltration is low.

Maintenance & Cleaning

The tile itself doesn’t require any maintenance, but grout should be sealed annually. It can also be cleaned with soap and water or a mild cleaning solution made for tile.

Average Cost

$1 - 35/sq ft

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MARBLE

Composition

When underground limestone is subjected to high heat and pressure, it is transformed into marble. The rocks are divided into parts by special machines, and then molded and given a smooth surface.

Location & Water Infiltration

Marble tile is safe for use on the floor and walls, however is not recommended in high traffic areas. Because marble is naturally very porous, water infiltration is a valid concern, as are scratches and stains.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Both the tile and grout should be sealed annually to minimize water infiltration and general wear and tear. Use a mild, phosphate-free soap and water to clean.

Average Cost

$14 - 100/sq ft

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LIMESTONE

Composition

Limestone is an all-natural material composed mainly of calcium carbonate, with other minerals included.

Location & Water Infiltration

Like marble, limestone tile is safe for use on the floor or walls but is not recommended in high traffic areas. It is also very porous and prone to water infiltration, staining and cracking.

Maintenance & Cleaning

It is recommended that limestone tile be sealed every 3-5 years, depending on the amount of traffic it gets. Avoid acidic cleaners and stick with a pH neutral solution.

Average Cost

$2 - 11/sq ft

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GLASS

Composition

These tiles are made from this pieces of glass, with a translucent glaze fired onto the back. It’s sold individually and also as a mosaic tile on a mesh backing.

Location & Water Infiltration

Glass tile is recommended for use on the wall only, and is not used as a floor tile. This is because it can be scratched and cracked. It is not at all porous so water infiltration is not a concern.

Maintenance & Cleaning

The tile itself does not require any maintenance, however the grout should be sealed annually. Use a non-abrasive cleaner with a soft brush to avoid scratching.

Average Cost

$14-35/sq ft

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CEMENT

Composition

Cement tile has been around since the 19th century and have recently made quite a comeback. They are made by hand, one at a time. The process includes cement, mineral pigments, a mold and a hydraulic press.

Location & Water Infiltration

Cement tile is safe for use on the floor or walls, but is recommended in low traffic areas on floor applications. It is incredibly porous and may patina over time.

Maintenance & Cleaning

It is recommended that cement tiles are sealed every 2-3 years in order to prolong it’s lifetime. Clean with a pH neutral solution; avoid acidic cleaners and bleach.

Average Cost

$14 - 20/sq ft

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We hope you’re feeling more educated on the ins and outs of tile! If you still feel unsure you can always ask your contractor or local suppliers what they recommend. We’re here for you too! We can help coordinate beautiful options for you that will accent your home and make it stand out from the rest.