Floor tile is one of the most durable, versatile, and design-forward flooring options available today. From high-traffic commercial spaces to cozy residential bathrooms, tile delivers long-term performance with endless style possibilities.
Whether you're renovating a single room or designing an entire home, this ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know about floor tile - materials, durability, sizing, installation considerations, maintenance, and design trends.
If you're new to tile, start with our Wall and Floor Tile for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know for a foundational overview before diving deeper.
Why Choose Floor Tile?
Floor tile remains a top flooring choice for good reason:
- Durability – Resistant to scratches, dents, and heavy foot traffic
- Water resistance – Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms, and basements
- Low maintenance – Easy to clean and maintain
- Design flexibility – Available in countless colors, patterns, and finishes
- Longevity – Properly installed tile can last decades
Tile is especially valuable in moisture-prone areas where hardwood or laminate may struggle.
Types of Floor Tile
Understanding material differences is critical before making a selection.
1. Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile is made from refined clay and fired at higher temperatures than ceramic. This makes it:
- Denser and less porous
- Highly water-resistant
- Extremely durable
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Best for: High-traffic areas, bathrooms, kitchens, entryways, commercial spaces.
Porcelain can realistically mimic wood, marble, concrete, and stone - making it one of the most versatile tile options available.
Learn more about performance ratings and durability in our guide to AC Rating: What it Means for Your Flooring.
Explore our full collection of porcelain tile.
2. Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is slightly softer and more porous than porcelain but still durable for most residential spaces.
- More budget-friendly
- Easier to cut and install
- Available in endless styles
Best for: Light to moderate traffic areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Browse our full collection of ceramic tile.
3. Natural Stone Tile
Natural stone tiles include materials like:
- Marble
- Travertine
- Slate
- Limestone
Each stone has unique veining, color variation, and texture.
Pros:
- Luxury appearance
- One-of-a-kind character
- Adds resale value
Cons:
- Requires sealing
- Higher maintenance
- Typically higher cost
Stone is ideal when aesthetics and natural variation are top priorities.
Shop our collection of natural stone tile for your next project.
Understanding Tile Ratings
Not all tile is rated the same. Here are the key ratings to understand:
PEI Rating (Porcelain Enamel Institute)
Measures wear resistance on glazed tile.
- PEI 1–2: Light residential use
- PEI 3: General residential floors
- PEI 4–5: Heavy residential and commercial use
COF Rating (Coefficient of Friction)
Indicates slip resistance.
For interior dry areas, a DCOF ≥ 0.42 is typically recommended.
Choosing the Right Tile Size
Tile size significantly impacts how a space feels.
Small Format Tile (2”–8”)
- Great for intricate patterns
- Ideal for smaller spaces
- Requires more grout lines
Medium Format Tile (12”–18”)
- Traditional standard size
- >Balanced look
- Works in most rooms
Large Format Tile (24”+)
- Modern aesthetic
- Fewer grout lines
- Makes rooms appear larger
Larger tiles often require flatter subfloors for proper installation.
Finishing Options
The finish affects both look and performance.
- Matte: Better slip resistance, hides dirt
- Polished: High shine, elegant look, can be slippery
- Textured: Ideal for bathrooms and outdoor spaces
- Honed: Smooth but not glossy
For floor applications, matte or lightly textured finishes are generally preferred for safety.
For wet areas like showers, proper installation systems are critical. Explore how integrated waterproofing works in our Schluter® Waterproofing Systems for Showers & Tile guide.
Grout Considerations
Grout is more than just filler — it affects the final look.
- Matching grout: Seamless appearance
- Contrasting grout: Highlights pattern and layout
- Epoxy grout: Stain-resistant and durable
- Cement-based grout: Traditional and cost-effective
Proper sealing (when required) helps extend grout life.
Popular Floor Tile Layout Patterns
- Straight Lay: Clean, modern
- Offset/Brick Pattern: Classic and forgiving
- Herringbone: Elegant and dynamic
- Diagonal: Adds visual interest
Layout can dramatically change how tile appears in a space.
Where to Use Floor Tile
Floor tile works exceptionally well in:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry rooms
- Mudrooms
- Basements
- Commercial spaces
With the right product selection, tile can also be used in living rooms and bedrooms for a modern or Mediterranean aesthetic.
Installation Considerations
Professional installation is recommended for best results.
Key factors include:
- Proper subfloor preparation
- Correct underlayment
- Expansion joints
- Mortar selection
- Movement accommodation
Improper installation is one of the leading causes of tile failure.
For advanced tile installations, especially in bathrooms and wet areas, understanding uncoupling membranes and drainage systems is essential:
- Schluter® Uncoupling Membranes Explained
- Schluter® Shower Systems & Drainage Solutions
- Schluter® Tile Edge Profiles & Finishing Options
Maintenance & Longevity
One of tile’s greatest advantages is low maintenance.
- Sweep or vacuum regularly
- Damp mop with pH-neutral cleaner
- Seal natural stone when required
- Address cracked grout promptly
When properly installed and maintained, floor tile can last 20–50+ years.
Floor Tile Trends
Current trends include:
- Wood-look porcelain planks
- Large-format concrete-look tile
- Bold patterned encaustic designs
- Natural stone aesthetics
- Warm neutral tones
Design is shifting toward natural textures and subtle movement rather than overly glossy finishes.
Is Floor Tile Right for You?
Choose floor tile if you want:
- Long-term durability
- Water resistance
- Minimal upkeep
- Modern design flexibility
- High resale appeal
If comfort underfoot is a concern, consider pairing tile with radiant heating systems for added warmth.
Conclusion
Floor tile offers unmatched durability, water resistance, and design flexibility. From sleek modern interiors to rustic natural stone aesthetics, tile provides a foundation that performs as beautifully as it looks.
Choosing the right material, finish, and layout ensures your floors will not only complement your space but also stand the test of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is porcelain better than ceramic for floors?
Porcelain is generally more durable and water-resistant, making it ideal for high-traffic and wet areas.
Does tile make a room feel cold?
Tile can feel cool, especially in winter, but radiant heating systems can solve this.
Is tile good for homes with pets?
Yes. Tile resists scratches, stains, and accidents better than many other flooring types.
How long does tile flooring last?
With proper installation and maintenance, tile can last decades - often outlasting other flooring materials.
