Tiles have become very popular in the past few years with many home builders and designers. They have found it is easy to care for, is available in unlimited shapes, colors and designs, and adds value to a home. Tile is durable and most is especially suited to areas of heavy traffic. It does not stain, sag, or tear and provides years of comfort and beauty. In addition, it has a natural look and, if properly selected, will blend with any other colors in the location where it is installed. Tiles can be incorporated into any design palette. Grout, used to hold the tiles together, also comes in many colors and can be used as a continuation of the tile color or can be used as a contrast. One is only limited by their imagination in choosing the layout and the desired end product.

Tile comes in several materials. Marble, granite and slate are cut from natural stone. These materials are very porous, stain easily and can break if not handled properly. Of the types of tiles that are manufactured, these natural stones are the most expensive. In response to consumers desire for products that looked like natural stone, manufacturers create tiles that are mixed with other elements to create the same type of stone look that is non-porous and more durable. Many people select one of these types of tiles when looking for a natural stone tile.

Tile selection can be confusing because of the many types of tile available. When selecting tile it is helpful to have a basic knowledge of the tiles used most often and where they most effective when installed.

Ceramic tile is a mixture of clays and other materials that are fired at high temperatures. To make this tile, several different types of clay are reduced to a fine powder, pressed and dried. Glazing ceramic tile involves covering one side of the tile with a substance called, which is made from glass. This is then fired at a very high temperature which melts the glass and creates the high-gloss cover over the tile. This system makes one side of the tile a hard finish that resists any type of water or hard wear. Ceramic tiles are extremely durable and recommended by most professionals for flooring and walls.

Porcelain tile is also a mixture of clays and other materials but the primary material used in its manufacture is finely ground sand. After being pressed at extremely high temperature it becomes fine, grained and smooth and looks much like glass. It is stronger and more durable than ceramic tile. While at one time porcelain tile color extended through the entire body of the tile being manufactured, today it is used as a surface color. Special tools are required to cut porcelain tile because of its tendency to chip.

Agglomerate tile is made by combining polyester resin or epoxy with marble or granite chips. Its strength makes it desirable in many projects having high traffic. This tile affordable and most popular in kitchens, counter tops, walls, bathrooms, and fireplaces. When tiles are installed using Agglomerate the area must be sealed to protect it.

Quarry tile is made by combining natural clays (shale) which makes the color red. Other colors are available in Quarry tile as well. These colors are made by included different dyes to change the color of the clay. The tiles are used primarily for flooring. It is both water and weather resistant which makes it ideal in climates that have severe weather changes.

Terrazzo tile is similar to Agglomerate tile in the way it is made. This tile is one of the durable tiles on the market. It is suitable for any use after it is sealed. It wears well in heavy traffic areas and is resistant to water and stains.

Mexican Tile or Terracotta is handmade tile which varies in texture, color and appearance. It comes in various styles, colors and sizes and usually requires some type of sealing. This tile is usually used in courtyards or patios where a rustic charm is preferred. The tile gives off a cool temperature in heat and is very popular in regions where the temperatures are extremely high.

Mosaics are very small tiles made from porcelain, ceramic, glass or natural stone. They are ideal for placing between other tile to obtain an outstanding design. In some cases mosaic bricks are used to create a unique back-splash in a kitchen.