Tile is one of the most popular options for homeowners who want a new kitchen floor. This is mainly because tiles are durable, easy to maintain, and come in various designs. Not sure what type of tile to use in your kitchen? Let’s go through the different types of kitchen tiles with their pros and cons;
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are the most common type of tile for kitchens and other parts of the homes like bathrooms. This tile is produced from a blend of clays, water, and minerals, then made into shapes and patterns before they are dried and glazed. The two major advantages of ceramic tiles are their affordability and the fact that they are available in different designs.
Pros:
- Very easy to clan
- Simple to install
- Affordable
- They are waterproof and great for spaces that get damp
- Available in different designs, patterns, colors, and styles, so there are varieties of ceramic tiles to pick from
Cons:
- Not very sturdy and may crack easily when subjected to high force
- They are hard, and objects that fall on them may break easily
- Ceramic tiles often come with grout lines that trap dirt
- It may require regular cleaning to remove stains that form between tiles
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tile is a variation of ceramic tiles made from clay mixed with quartz and feldspar. This type of tile for the kitchen floor is hard, making it more resistant and durable. Porcelain tiles also come in different colors and patterns, giving you various options to pick from. Porcelain isn’t always glazed but lasts longer and requires little maintenance.
Pros:
- Durable and resilient
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Porcelains tiles look good
- No need for sealing
- Easy to cut and drill into
- You can lay them over existing tiles. This takes away the stress and cost of removing existing tiles
Cons:
- More expensive than ceramic tiles
- Hard to cut and drill
- A crack will require a complete replacement of the tiling
- Fewer patterns and designs compared to ceramic
Glass Tiles
Glass kitchen tiles are made from glass pieces and are mainly used for the backsplash. Many homes mix up glass tiles with other types of tiles like ceramic and porcelain.
Pros:
- Great for kitchen backsplash
- Has an attractive look
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Had to install
- Can crack easily
- Expensive
Terracotta Tiles
Terracotta is an excellent choice of tiles for kitchen floors, especially if you want a rustic look for your kitchen. They are made from natural clay, making them a durable and long-lasting choice.
Pros:
- Durable and eco-friendly
- Vibrant and attractive colors
Cons:
- Sensitive to oils and acids
- Gets stained easily
- Terracotta is porous and can crack easily is not sealed
Travertine Tiles
Travertine is a type of limestone with a rustic look that works well for the kitchen. They can last a long time and are also eco-friendly and recyclable.
Pros:
- Has a natural and rustic appearance. Travertine adds character to your kitchen!
- Lats long and easy to repair
- Durable
Cons:
- Can get cold without underfloor heating
- Expensive
- Requires ongoing maintenance
- Only available in shades of brown, coffee, and rust.
Stone Tiles
Stone tiles are an excellent option for those looking for a natural look for their kitchen. These types of tiles for kitchen floors are made from natural stones, with popular options being granite, slate, onyx, and sandstone. Stone tiles are great for the kitchen floor, walls, and backsplash.
Pros:
- Very durable and attractive
- Increases the resale value of your home
- One of the best tiles for kitchen floors
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Can get scratched easily
- Hard to repair when damages
- Requires resealing
Vitrified Tiles
Another major type of tile for the kitchen floor is vitrified tiles, which are great alternatives to marble and granite flooring.
Pros:
- Cheap and easy to maintain
- Non-porous, thus do not get stained easily
- Come in different varieties of colors
Cons:
- Slippery to walk on, so not a great choice in homes with children and seniors
- Installation cost is expensive
Marble Tiles
One of the best types of tiles in the kitchen is marble tile. This tile material is stunning and has a beautiful aesthetic, keeping your kitchen looking modern. Marble tiles are also a popular choice for kitchen countertops.
Pros:
- Adds beauty and luxury vibe to your home. The level of beauty marble tiles add to the kitchen can only be matched by a few kitchen flooring options.
- Maintenance is easy
Cons:
- More expensive than other tile options
- Gets stains and damages easily
- Requires regular cleaning and ongoing maintenance
- Requires sealing to prevent grout stains
What to Use Instead of Tiles in the Kitchen?
Although tiles are the most popular option when it comes to kitchen flooring, there are other options homeowners can consider. Some of them include the following:
- Laminate
- Linoleum
- Hardwood
- Vinyl
- Travertine
Conclusion
The kitchen is usually the busiest in the home, so you need suitable flooring. Now that you have all the information on the different types of kitchen tiles, it’s time to determine the suitable one for your kitchen floor. We hope this list helps you decide on the best tiles for your kitchen.
Need Help Upgrading Your Kitchen Tiles?
Hill Residential Contractors have got you! Whether you want a new look or tile your kitchen from scratch, we have the right man for the job. Please request a free consultation today, and let’s upgrade your kitchen design.