05 Jul 2023, Read Time : 12 Min

Types of Tiles

Tiles play a crucial role in interior design, bringing aesthetics, durability, and functionality to our residential and commercial spaces. The range of tiles available in the market today enables us to create unique and alluring surroundings that represent our own styles everywhere, from bathrooms and kitchens to living rooms and outdoor spaces. However the varied types of tiles could also make your selection a difficult decision. 

To assist you in making wise selections when selecting the ideal tiles for your area, we explore the vast number of varieties and materials available as we dig into the fascinating world of tiles.

Different Types of Tiles

Here are the different types of tiles available in the market: 

Porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for flooring and wall applications in high-traffic areas. They require less upkeep and are strong, resistant to water damage, and stain resistant. Porcelain tiles are denser and more durable than ceramic tiles because they are made from a finer blend of clay and other elements and are fired at a higher temperature. There are several types of  porcelain tiles, such as:

• Polished Porcelain tiles that have been polished have a high-gloss finish applied to them, giving them a bright, reflecting surface. They are perfect for giving home and business areas a clean, contemporary aesthetic.

• One of the popular types of porcelain floor tiles, Matte or unglazed porcelain tiles, are perfect for high-traffic areas like bathrooms and kitchens because they have a natural, unpolished texture that provides a slip-resistant surface.

• Glazed Porcelain Tiles are a type of tile with a liquid glass surface at the top of these tiles, resulting in a hard, stain-resistant surface that is easy to clean.

• Double-charged porcelain tiles are manufactured by combining two porcelain layers, which results in a design that permeates the entire tile. They are available in a variety of colours and designs.

• Full Body Porcelain Tiles are perfect for high-traffic areas where wear and tear are a problem since they have a constant colour and pattern throughout the whole thickness of the tile.

• Digital Porcelain Tiles have complex patterns and designs printed on their surface thanks to digital printing technology. They come in many finishes, including matte, polished, and glazed.

Glass Tiles

Glass tiles can be utilised both functionally and aesthetically. Glass tiles can be integrated with other materials like stainless steel and are available in a broad range of materials, transparency, and colours. Due to their capacity to reflect light and give an aesthetic appeal to a place, they are frequently used for accent walls, shower walls, and backsplashes. Also, they are among the most popular types of bathroom tiles and kitchen tiles. These tiles are available in various varieties, such as: 

• Coated Glass Tiles are made from sheet glass that has undergone low-temperature modification and colour treatments.

• Cast Tile is produced by pouring molten glass into moulds, cooling them, and then removing the moulds to get a solid tile. They are frequently employed to decorate backsplashes and countertops.  

• In Fused Tile, flat glass is cut into tile shapes and then fired in a furnace to create fused tiles. They are transparent or contain a coloured layer that can be seen through the tile. 

Vitrified Tiles

Vitrified tiles are made using a combination of clay, quartz, feldspar, and silica and are made to undergo the vitrification process, which involves firing these tiles at high temperatures under hydraulic pressure, making them durable, highly resistant to any water damage, stains and scratches. Due to their strength, adaptability, and aesthetic appeal, vitrified tiles are a preferred material among both designers and homeowners. 

There are several types of vitrified tiles, such as:

• Double Charge Vitrified Tiles, to make these tiles, the surface is first covered with a coating of coloured slurry, then a layer of clear glass. Vibrant colours and patterns are produced as a result of the double-charging process. Both residential and commercial areas frequently employ them. 

• Full Body Vitrified Tiles are coloured and patterned all the way through their thickness. Because of this, they are resistant to damage as the design doesn’t fade away. Full-body vitrified tiles are frequently employed in commercial buildings and outdoor applications because of their high traffic volume.

• Glazed Vitrified Tiles have a glaze coating put to their surface, giving them a glossy and smooth appearance. These glazed tiles are a flexible choice for both interior and exterior applications since they can be personalised with different designs, textures, and patterns.

Mosaic Tiles

To improve the texture, colour, and aesthetic appeal of walls and floors, mosaic tiles are a popular choice. Mosaic tiles come in a variety of options, each having special qualities of their own. This tile tops the list when talking about the popular types of tiles for bathroom walls. Here are the types of mosaic tiles:

• Glass Mosaic Tiles are made of tiny shards of glass, sometimes with a glossy or transparent surface; these tiles are used in architectural projects. They come in a variety of colours, shapes, and sizes. Glass tiles can produce a vivid, brilliant look by reflecting light well. They are frequently seen in bathrooms, kitchens, and swimming pools.

• Stone Mosaic Tiles are made of stones like marble, travertine, slate, or granite. Depending on the intended appearance, these tiles have a polished or textured surface. Stone mosaic tiles are frequently used in showers, backsplashes, or accent walls, giving any area a natural and earthy feel.

• Metal Mosaic Tiles are frequently created with stainless steel, aluminium, or copper. The metallic surface of these objects might be polished, brushed, or hammered. Metal tiles give interiors a contemporary, sleek look and are frequently utilised as backsplashes or ornamental elements in kitchens and bathrooms.

• Ceramic & Porcelain Mosaic Tiles are made of Ceramic and Porcelain and come in a variety of hues, sheens, and textures. Porcelain tiles are thicker, robust, and versatile than ceramic tiles, which are more porous and best suited for indoor use. Mosaics made of ceramic and porcelain are adaptable and frequently used in ornamental applications such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Vinyl Tiles

Vinyl tiles are a type of flooring that is available in a variety of colours, finishes, and designs and is produced from synthetic materials like PVC. There are several kinds of vinyl tiles, such as:

• Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) come in a variety of colours and designs and are made to resemble natural materials like wood or stone. They can be used in a variety of places, are strong, and are simple to clean.

• Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP) resemble LVT, they are made to resemble hardwood. They are frequently used in residential and commercial settings, come in various colours, and have a variety of finishes.

• Vinyl Sheet is a kind of flooring that is available in broad rolls that can be customised to fit any space. Due to its longevity, it is frequently used in high-traffic areas and is available in a variety of colours and designs.

• SPC Vinyl Tiles are extremely hard and moisture-resistant since they are made of a mixture of limestone and PVC. They are utilised often in business settings and come in a variety of colours and designs.

• WPC Vinyl Tiles are a mixture of wood and PVC, making them incredibly strong and moisture-resistant. They come in a variety of hues and designs and are frequently used in residential settings.

Wooden Tiles

Wooden tiles are the best type of tile to provide interior rooms with a warm, natural appearance. These tiles are made of ceramic or porcelain and preserve greater longevity. Wooden tiles offer a variety of possibilities to meet various preferences and uses. They are used for floors, walls, and ornamental accents.

• Wood Lookalike Effect Tiles, wood-look tiles, or wood-effect tiles are made of ceramic or porcelain material that simulate the appearance of natural wood. They provide a genuine wood grain appearance with their range of colours, patterns, and textures. These tiles combine the visual appeal of wood with the strength and ease of upkeep of tile. They are frequently used as indoor flooring in wet places like bathrooms and kitchens.

• Engineered Wood Tiles are made of a base of plywood or high-density fibreboard (HDF) with a thin coating of actual wood veneer. Compared to solid wood, they are sturdy and less prone to warping or expansion because of their design. Engineered wood tiles may be put in locations with moderate moisture levels and are appropriate for use as interior flooring.

• Parquet Tiles are small wooden tiles that are often laid out in geometric designs like herringbone or chevron. They are distinct, attractive, and frequently utilised as accent pieces or interior flooring. Wood tiles or engineered wood can be used to create parquet tiles.

Cement Tiles

Cement tiles are made using sand, cement, colour, and marble powder. They are made using moulds and come in a variety of colours, finishes, and designs. They are robust, adaptable, and frequently used for backsplashes, walls, and floors both indoors and outside.

Terracotta Tiles

Terracotta tiles are a form of ceramic tile created using clay with a high iron concentration that is very porous and readily moulded. Due to its durability, ease of upkeep, and green attributes, terracotta tiles are popular for flooring and wall coverings. They are frequently utilised in interior places like bathrooms and kitchens and outside spaces like patios and walks. Their distinctive earthy colour adds a natural look to any space. Terracotta tiles may be treated to repel stains and moisture and come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and finishes. Terracotta tile is eco-friendly and sustainable since it uses a locally available, renewable material.

Zellige Tiles

Originally from Morocco, these handcrafted terracotta tiles are called “zelliges”. They are created using water and natural clay, which is then hand-shaped and baked in a kiln over olive branches. Each tile receives a distinctive finish and brilliant colours throughout this burning process. Zellige tiles come in a variety of sizes and shapes and are renowned for their unique designs. They are frequently used for flooring, accent walls, and backsplashes in residential and commercial spaces. For people who wish to give their area a sense of authenticity and exoticism, zellige tiles are a popular option.

Quarry Tiles

Quarry tiles are tiles made using similar technology to brick manufacturing and have undergone a high-temperature firing. They have a slightly rough feel and are generally 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Quarry tiles are used in high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways since they are quite resilient and can sustain heavy usage.

Reformed Stone Tiles

Reformed stone tiles are a blend of different stones that are made in a factory to mimic the appearance and texture of real stone. They are made to resemble the texture, colour, and patterns of several types of stone, including marble, granite, and slate. These tiles have the aesthetic appeal of genuine stone while being more durable and simpler to maintain.  As they are versatile and come in various design possibilities, reformed stone tiles are a popular alternative for indoor and outdoor applications.

Natural Stones

Natural stones, including granite, quartzite, sandstone, marble, travertine, slate, limestone, onyx, and pebbles, have been long popular in residential and commercial spaces. These are available in various designs, colours, and finishes and are mostly utilised for worktops, floors, and walls in indoor and outdoor spaces. 

• Granite  is renowned for its natural beauty and durability. The same look now comes in a manmade tile format – a granite tile. Granite tile can be used for floors or worktops and has a timeless beauty.

• Sandstone Tiles have rough surfaces that make you feel like you’re in the natural world, radiate warmth, and have a rustic look. Sandstone tiles are suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications and add warmth and cosiness to any space.

• Marble Tiles are renowned for their distinctive veining patterns, smooth, polished surfaces, elegance, and luxury. They are frequently used to produce a classic and upscale aesthetic in bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces. 

• Travertine Tiles evoke the enduring magnificence of ancient Roman architecture. These tiles give any room a sense of refinement with their unusually porous surface and warm colours. Travertine tiles give off an appearance of elegance and grace, whether they are utilised in a kitchen backsplash or a majestic staircase.

• Limestone Tiles are the definition of understated beauty, as they provide a harmonious blend of subtlety and texture. Their subtle, mellow tones and fine veining help to create a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Limestone tiles provide a sense of elegance and serene beauty to any space, making them ideal for both traditional and modern settings.

• Onyx Tiles are focus points because of their amazing designs and gorgeous colour variations, drawing appreciation. Since onyx is a translucent gemstone prized for its beauty, onyx tiles have a magical, glittering vibe to them. Onyx tiles, whether utilised as a dramatic flooring choice or a statement wall, provide an opulent environment.

• With a rough, textured exterior, Slate Tiles exude a feeling of the outdoors and of the soil. Their layered patterns and deep, rich colours give any space depth and personality. Slate tiles are a flexible and long-lasting flooring option that symbolises natural beauty. They may be used in everything from modern outdoor patios to rustic farmhouse kitchens.

Ceramic Tiles

Among several types of floor tiles in India, ceramic tiles are one of the preferred choices. Ceramic Tiles are made using clay, sand, and water and then heated in a kiln. In both residential and commercial settings, these tiles can be used for floors, countertops, walls, and backsplashes. Ceramic tiles are extremely heat- and water-resistant, as well as tough. Additionally, they are less costly and require less upkeep.

Also Read: Comparison of Different Floor Tile Materials and Their Durability

Glazed and unglazed are two types of ceramic tiles.

• Unglazed Ceramic Tile: The surfaces of these ceramic tiles are uncoated and smooth. They appear more organic and textured. Although unglazed ceramic tiles are typically more resistant to slippage than glazed ceramic tiles, they do require sealing to prevent staining and moisture absorption.

• Glazed Ceramic Tile: Glazed Ceramic Tiles are ceramic tiles that have a surface finish that looks like glass. These tiles are less permeable.

Conclusion

To sum it up, there are many options available in the tiles for enhancing your space. Each type of tile, has a certain appeal of its own. There is a tile to suit your demands, whether they are for colours, contemporary aesthetics, or durability. We hope this guide helps you understand different types of tiles and their uses.

How Can Orientbell Tiles Help?

We understand that selecting the perfect tile may seem daunting. But, with Orientbell Tiles’ tile visualisation tool, TriaLook, tile selection is now a breeze. Simply upload a picture of your space and try the tiles to see which tile(s) works best for your space. Find a store using our store locator and our team of tile experts will help you to the best of your ability.