Tiles are a key element of any home, combining style, durability, and practicality. Whether you're renovating or building a new space, selecting the best tiles for home can be overwhelming. With so many options available, from porcelain vs ceramic tiles to natural stone and beyond, this tile buying guide will help you make an informed decision.
Types of Tiles: Which One is Right for You?
Understanding the different tile types is crucial before making a purchase. Here’s a breakdown of popular choices:
1. Ceramic Tiles
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Made from clay and kiln-fired.
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Affordable and available in a wide range of designs.
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Best for low to moderate foot traffic areas like kitchens and backsplashes.
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Easier to cut and install but less durable than porcelain.
2. Porcelain Tiles
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A denser and more water-resistant type of ceramic tile.
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Ideal for high-traffic areas, including bathrooms and outdoor spaces.
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Comes in various finishes, including polished, matte, and textured.
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Requires professional installation due to its hardness.
Hermes White In & Out Tile 600x600
3. Natural Stone Tiles
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Includes options like marble, granite, travertine, and slate.
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Each tile has unique patterns, adding a luxurious touch.
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Requires sealing to prevent stains and moisture absorption.
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Best for living rooms, feature walls, and high-end kitchen designs.
4. Mosaic Tiles
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Made from various materials, including glass, ceramic, and stone.
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Ideal for decorative elements like bathroom feature walls and shower floors.
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Comes in pre-arranged sheets for easy installation.
Fuji Crystal Glazed Mosaic 12.8x95mm Emerald
5. Outdoor & Slip-Resistant Tiles
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Made from porcelain, concrete, or textured natural stone.
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Designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.
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Essential for patios, balconies, and pool areas.
Durability & Maintenance: What to Consider
When selecting tiles, durability and maintenance should be top priorities. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Tile Strength & Traffic
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Low-Traffic Areas: Ceramic or natural stone.
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High-Traffic Areas: Porcelain, granite, or textured tiles.
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Outdoor Spaces: Slip-resistant and frost-resistant tiles.
Water & Stain Resistance
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Porcelain tiles offer the highest water resistance, making them ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
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Sealing natural stone is crucial to prevent stains and moisture damage.
Ease of Cleaning
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Glazed tiles (ceramic and porcelain) are the easiest to clean.
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Textured tiles require more effort but offer better slip resistance.
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Light-colored tiles show stains easily, while dark tiles may highlight dust.
Tile Trends for 2025: What’s In?
Keeping up with the latest trends ensures your home looks modern and stylish. Here’s what’s trending in tile design for 2025:
1. Large-Format Tiles
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Creates a seamless look with minimal grout lines.
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Popular in living rooms and bathrooms for a sleek, contemporary feel.
2. Nature-Inspired Designs
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Marble-look porcelain tiles for luxurious yet affordable flooring.
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Earthy tones and terrazzo patterns bringing warmth to interiors.
3. Textured & 3D Tiles
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Adds depth and character to walls and floors.
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Great for bathroom feature walls and kitchen backsplashes.
Woolf Textured Stone touch Marble tile 1200x600
4. Sustainable & Recycled Tiles
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Eco-friendly tiles made from recycled glass or sustainable ceramic.
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A top choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
5. Matte Finishes & Neutral Tones
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Soft, muted shades like warm greys, taupes, and off-whites remain popular.
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Matte finishes provide a sophisticated, non-slip surface.
Dulcet Beige Matt 600x600 Tile
Best Tiles for Each Space in Your Home
Bathroom
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Best Choice: Porcelain tiles for durability and water resistance.
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Avoid: Polished tiles that can become slippery when wet.
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Trending: Marble-look and large-format tiles.
Kitchen
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Best Choice: Ceramic or porcelain tiles for easy cleaning.
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Avoid: High-gloss tiles on floors (they show smudges and scratches).
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Trending: Subway tiles and terrazzo backsplashes.
Living Room
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Best Choice: Natural stone or wood-look porcelain for elegance.
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Avoid: Glossy or light-colored tiles if you have pets.
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Trending: Textured and neutral-tone tiles.
Outdoor Areas
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Best Choice: Slip-resistant, frost-proof porcelain or natural stone.
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Avoid: Glossy tiles that can become hazardous when wet.
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Trending: Large pavers and stone-look finishes.
Final Tips for Buying the Right Tiles
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Always get samples before making a final decision. Shop our samples now at Tilewave.
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Consider grout colour – darker grout hides stains, while lighter grout creates a clean look. Pick the right grout colour for your home with our extensive Mapei Range.
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Invest in professional installation for best results.
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Check PEI ratings (Porcelain Enamel Institute) to ensure durability.
By following this tile buying guide, you’ll be equipped to choose the best tiles for your home in 2025. Whether you prefer the durability of porcelain vs ceramic tiles, the elegance of natural stone, or the latest design trends, selecting the right tiles will elevate your home’s aesthetic and functionality.
Need Help Finding the Perfect Tiles?
Explore our wide range of high-quality tiles for every space. Shop online or visit our showroom today!
