What Type of Tile is Best for Kitchen Flooring?

When remodeling a kitchen, you may be a bit overwhelmed by the number of decisions that need to be made. Between choosing cabinets, furniture, appliances, etc., it can be difficult to piece it all together. If you’re looking for a place to start, try working your way from the ground up. Begin by choosing a material for your kitchen floor. 

Tile is a durable, water-resistant option that will give you plenty of options for design. With an array of styles, shapes, and colors available, you’re bound to find something that will match your aesthetic. So first, which material of tile should you choose?

Porcelain 

Porcelain floor tile is composed of a clay mixture with sand, fired at a high temperature to produce a hard, dense and less porous tile. Their tough surface makes them scratch and stain resistant, and therefore a solid choice for high-traffic areas such as your kitchen. Another advantage of porcelain is that it is easy to clean. It does not absorb moisture easily, so spills can easily be wiped up with a damp cloth. For maintenance, it only needs to be cleaned with water and a mild detergent. Porcelain tiles can either come glazed or unglazed. Glazed porcelain tile has a glass-like coating which produces a colored surface, whereas unglazed porcelain has color added to the clay mixture so the color is carried throughout. This means that color will remain the same over time even as it wears down. Overall they are a great choice for both functionality and aesthetics. 

Ceramic

Ceramic tiles are a bit softer than porcelain but glazed to create a protective layer that can withstand the wear and tear of regular kitchen activities. Because it is a bit softer, it makes for an easier cut and installation. A quality installation will last typically between 10-20 years, if not longer. They are fairly easy to maintain as well. Dirt, stains, and liquids can all be wiped, mopped or swept away.  They also have a large variety of design options, that can be mixed and matched with patterns and designs to fit your style. They can be cut into different shapes and sizes, leaving you with endless opportunities. 

Stone

Stone tiles, as they sound, are made from natural stone, including slate, granite, limestone, travertine, and marble. Because they are made in nature, they are highly weather resistant and durable. They can either be polished or honed. Polished surfaces pose the risk of slippery when wet, but the polish accentuates the beauty of the stone. Honed tiles provide a bit more traction, with a less vibrant look. Either way, these tiles will bring an interesting, earthy aesthetic into your home. 

Contact Artistic Tile

To help choose a tile that will match your aesthetic, and bring functionality into your kitchen, you can rely on our knowledgeable team here at Artistic Tile. Fill out our contact form or call us today to get started!