New flooring is an extensive and expensive renovation task. That's why it's important to do your research to find the best tile materials for each space. To properly extend the lifespan of your floor, explore the several materials available in floor tiles and the benefits of each. For more details about floor tile installation, check out our complete guide on floor tile durability Types of Floor Tiles You Need to Know Before You Remodel

Floor Tile Materials

Ceramic

Ceramic: Generally more affordable, ceramic tiles can come in a glazed or unglazed finish. Regardless, this tile material requires minimal upkeep and is easy to clean with a damp towel.

Porcelain: For a luxurious look and feel, porcelain tile floor is highly resistant to wear and breakage, even against the rough nails of pets. They're even allergen resistant and won't trap dust or pollen.

Terracotta: This tile material can withstand a lot of stress and also resists breaking and chipping very effectively. It is not affected by erosive elements, and can last for years without any degradation, which is why you often see it in outdoor areas.

Engineered

Glass: Because it is a softer material, glass tiles are mostly used for the "floor" of a pool, glass tiles are often textured to prevent slippage when wet.

Cement: Cement floors can obviously withstand wear and tear and don't need regular maintenance like refinishing or waxing. They also hold temperature well, which is great for insulating the home.

Engineered Stone: Man-made and bound by resin, engineered stone is especially non-porous, making it hard for flaws such as cracks or chips to develop. It also doesn't easily cultivate mold, making it beneficial for areas in the house that are most subjected to moisture, like bathroom floors.

Natural Stone

Natural Stone: Natural stone tiles are a great way to add value to your property. Available in several beautiful designs, stone tiles bring a unique element into the room.

Marble: For an elegant, high-end finish, opting for marble floors can instantly elevate the look and feel of a space. Marble flooring is also eco-friendly. Because it's a natural material, it's not constructed or processed with a bunch of chemicals.

Travertine: This tile material works well in almost any space, including small spaces or areas that are uneven. Since travertine is easy to shape and cut, it's the most cost effective of the natural stone options.

Slate: This extremely hard, natural material results in a floors resistant to scratches, scrapes, and dents. It is also fire- and moisture-resistant. The rough texture and colored varieties of slate make it a very forgiving flooring material when it comes to hiding dirt or damage.

Granite: With the proper care, granite floor tiles can last a lifetime. For areas of significant foot traffic, this tile material is best known for its durability. Granite is simple to maintain with the right granite sealer and cleaner.

Other Tile Materials

Mixed Material: Combining multiple tile materials like stone, metal, or glass results in a unique pattern for a sleek, contemporary appearance.

Metal: Heat- and water-resistant, metal floors are suitable for withstanding lots of use in a kitchen, for example. Made from mostly recycled materials, metal is another eco-friendly floor tile option.

Wood: These tile floors mimic the appearance of hardwood with the same distinctive grain design, but don't require the same upkeep other than the occasional mop and spray cleaner.

With the proper installation location, tile materials, and care, tile flooring will end up being a great investment to your home.