Different Types Of Flooring Tiles

There are many different types of flooring tiles you can use for your flooring project. Each type of material has its advantages, but all are useful in particular contexts.

Rubber Flooring Tiles

Rubber tiles are often used in commercial settings because of their durability. Rubber flooring tiles generally have a marbleized decorative top layer, and are soft and pliable for walking. They wear well, can be colorful (although commercial tiles are often grey or beige) and are resilient to anything dropped on them. They do not break easily.

These tiles are costly to purchase and install, and they can be very slippery when wet. If they are used in a kitchen setting, then they will generally be ribbed or studded. Other rubber flooring products are available, including soft, interlocking mats that are often used for indoor play areas or gyms.

Easy to Install Vinyl

Vinyl tile is easy to apply and inexpensive, making it a popular choice for those seeking an inexpensive alternative to sheet vinyl or ceramic tile. One of the advantages of vinyl tile is that it does not need professional installation. The tiles come in 12”x12” squares, and cost between 75 cents and $3 a square foot. The very cheapest squares wear out quickly and are not recommended as a flooring surface.

The tiles come with a glue pre-applied to the back, and only require the installer to peel off the protective paper and install them on the floor.

Design with Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles come in many different types, including ceramic, glass, or clay. The tiles may be glazed or unglazed. What makes mosaic tile unique is the small size of the tiles (generally 2 inches or less) and the webbed mounting material that holds the tile together.

Mosaic tiles are often put together in interesting and attractive patterns. While the webbed backing can be broken for a variety in installation, the sheets of tiles are often installed as a whole.

Mosaic tiles are often decorative in nature and not always suitable for flooring use.

Unique Looks with Terracotta

Terracotta tiles are tiles created from terracotta clay. They are a natural tile, and may be handmade. The look of terracotta is natural and warm, and varies between tiles because of the natural material used to create them.

They are very durable with a patina that improves with time. They are used as an environmentally friendly flooring, since the tiles absorb heat during the day and release it at night when it is cooler. Terracotta can be an expensive choice, however.

Durable Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is a durable and popular floor and wall covering. It has a long life, and is relatively inexpensive to install. It is fireproof and can be finished with slip resistant coatings. This tile resists deforming and breaking in high temperature conditions, doesn’t fade in the sunlight, and resists dust, dirt and mold. This makes it highly preferred for people with allergies and places where sanitation is of primary importance. It is more expensive than sheet vinyl or vinyl tiles, however.

A more expensive and attractive type of ceramic tile is a porcelain tile. It is both harder and more dense than other types of ceramic tile, resists damage from cleaning agents or scratches, and has a very low absorption rate – it almost never stains.

Eco-Friendly Recycled Glass

Glass tiles come in an infinite variety of colors and shapes. It is made of recycled glass, so it is an environmentally friendly choice. Glass has a huge array of design possibilities, is versatile for use throughout a home or business, and retains color with striking visual effect.