Ceramic Floor Tiles for Bathroom, Kitchen & More | The Tile Shop (2024)

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Ask the Tile Experts

• What are the advantages of ceramic tile?

  Ceramic tile is a popular choice because of the vast number of colors, shapes, sizes, finishes and textures that are available. In addition to its appearance, the cost effectiveness and easy maintenance makes it a wise choice in any room in your home.

• What’s the difference between ceramic and porcelain tile?

  Ceramic and porcelain are both man-made tiles that are produced from firing clay or other materials. The main difference is determined by the genetic makeup of the tile bisque. The size of the grain and temperature of the kiln will determine the strength of the tile. Some ceramics are stronger than porcelains and vice versa, so it’s all about where the tile is being installed and the look you are going for.

• Can ceramic tile be used outside?

  Only some ceramic tile can be used outdoors, so be sure to check your localThe Tile Shop before installing.

• What other rooms are good places to install ceramic tile?

  The sheer amount of styles, shapes and finishes of ceramic tile make it a solution for any room in your home. From modern to rustic to traditional, there’s a ceramic tile flooring option for any décor. Add personality to your bathroom, kitchen, shower, garage—anywhere you want flooring that’s functional and fashionable.

• How long will a ceramic tile floor last?

  Simply put, a very long time. With proper installation and care, a ceramic tile floor can last for many years. This is one advantage of tile over other materials. While cheap options might be appealing at the time, a quality tile floor will last much longer and be well worth it in the long run.

• How scratch resistant is ceramic tile flooring?

  With a higher luster, glazed ceramic tile is more prone to scratches than its unglazed alternative, which won’t show as many scrapes and marks.

• How stain resistant is ceramic tile flooring?

  Ceramic tile that is finished with a protective glaze is impervious to stains. Unglazed ceramic is vulnerable to staining, so definitely keep that in mind when choosing a finish for your tile.

• How do you clean ceramic floor tile?

  Make sure that your ceramic tile retains its finish by cleaning it with a .

• Can ceramic tiles be waxed or "shined"?

  There’s no need to wax or shine your ceramic floor—just be sure to keep up on regular sweeping and cleaning.

• How slippery is ceramic floor tile?

  If you have a glazed finish on your ceramic tile, it will be more slippery than an unglazed tile. For areas that are more likely to be wet (like laundry rooms, kitchens and outdoors), unfinished and textured tiles are a much better choice.

• Is ceramic tile a “green” product?

  Since it’s made from natural ingredients like clay, sand, minerals, quartz and water, ceramic is considered a green material. Many types of ceramic tile are made with recycled content, too. Ceramic tile can also lower your home’s energy footprint by storing heat, reducing consumption and increasing efficiency.

• Should you install ceramic floor tile without grout?

  The short answer is no. You might think the lack of grout will make your job look better, but if you want your floor to last, you need to use grout. Tile installed without grout has a much higher chance of breaking—even the thinnest lines make a big difference. It’s technically possible to install without grout, but it’s not recommended.

• How is ceramic flooring made?

  Ceramic tile is made from clay that’s shaped and fired at a high temperature in a large industrial oven known as a kiln. Materials commonly used for the clay include natural rock, slate, marble and even glass.

• Where is ceramic flooring made?

  This tile is manufactured in countries all over the world, including Morocco, Italy, Mexico, Spain, the United States, China, Vietnam, New Zealand and Brazil.

• Do I need to seal ceramic tile?

  Sealing glazed ceramic flooring is not necessary, but the grout lines should be sealed in order to prevent mold and water damage between your tiles.

• What is the difference between glazed and unglazed ceramic tile?

  Glaze is the color that is added to the top of a tile bisque. This can be matte or shiny. Glazed tiles can also add in fine aggregate to create a non-slip surface. Unglazed tiles are essentially just the body of a tile or what's underneath most tiles. It can be finished smooth, but it is very hard to find an unglazed ceramic tile besides quarry tiles, which are usually used in commercial kitchens.

• Can ceramic floor tile be used on walls or backsplashes?

  Yes! Ceramic is great to use on walls and backsplashes. Have fun with your tile combinations—you can coordinate your wall tile and floor tile, contrast them to really let one shine or use the same tile in both locations. Your design is only limited by your imagination and preferences.

• Can you install ceramic over vinyl, painted concrete, linoleum or wood flooring?

  It’s possible to install ceramic tiling over your existing flooring, but it’s hard to recommend it in every case. In order to be sure that your ceramic tile installation will work, stop into The Tile Shop to get helpful advice on your specific project.