Beautiful, durable, and timeless – tile floors have so many benefits for residential and commercial spaces. The right tile can take your room from drab to fab, while adding value and character to your home. With proper installation and care, tile floors can last for decades, saving you money on replacements down the road.
However, not all tile is created equal. The type of tile you choose, preparation of the subfloor, proper installation, and regular upkeep will all impact how your floors hold up. Don’t fret – we’ve compiled all the expert tips and essential steps in this guide to set you up for tile flooring success!
What You’ll Learn:
- The most popular types of tile flooring and their pros and cons
- Step-by-step instructions for laying tile flooring
- Pro preparation tips for a smooth installation
- Maintenance and cleaning methods by tile type
- Insider tricks from flooring professionals
Follow these essential guidelines and there will be no regrets with your new fabulous floors! Let’s start exploring the tile options available.
Read More: Homemade Cleaning Solutions for Every Surface
Section 1: Types of Tile Flooring
With so many varieties, colors, shapes, and textures available – where do you begin? Get to know the main categories of tile flooring along with their benefits and drawbacks. Consider the look you love and your budget, then narrow down the best choice for your project.
Ceramic Tile
A classic and affordable option perfect for most rooms.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly cost
- Wide variety of colors, shapes, textures
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- Can chip or crack
- Prone to some staining
- Cold underfoot
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms, laundry rooms, entryways
Cost Range: $2 – $15 per sq. ft. installed
Porcelain Tile
A refined, low-maintenance choice.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Easy to clean – resists staining/etching
- Color consistency and minimal wear over time
- Can mimic looks of pricier tile (marble, stone, etc)
Cons:
- Higher cost than ceramic
- Can be prone to cracking if not installed correctly
- Hard underfoot with no cushion
Best for: Bathrooms, kitchens, entryways, laundry rooms
Cost Range: $5-$50 per sq. ft. installed
Natural Stone Tile
Elegant and distinctive with unique veining in every piece.
Pros
- One-of-a-kind look
- Variety of natural stone types and colors
- Has cushioned feel underfoot
Cons:
- Expensive compared to ceramic or porcelain
- Needs resealing over time
- Can stain, scratch and crack more easily
Best for: Upscale bathrooms, kitchens, entryways
Cost Range: $15 – $100 per sq. ft. installed
Glass Tile
Gorgeous and glittering tile that reflects light beautifully.
Pros:
- Adds amazing visual interest
- Variety of colors and textures
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Environmentally friendly material
Cons:
- Higher cost than ceramic or porcelain
- Can crack or chip if hit hard
- Challenging DIY installation
Best for: Kitchen backsplashes, shower surrounds, and accents
Cost Range: $10-$50 per sq. ft. installed
Cement Tile
A statement floor with striking patterns and bold colors.
Pros:
- Very durable and damage resistant
- Antique, artistic look
- Colors remain vibrant over time
Cons:
- Higher cost than ceramic or porcelain
- Needs resealing to prevent staining
- Pattern requires precision to install
Best for: Bathrooms, patios, entryways, accent walls
Cost Range: $8-$40 per sq. ft. installed
Tile Flooring Comparison Chart
| Type | Cost Range | Durability | Stain Resistance | DIY Install |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | $2 – $15 per sq. ft. | Moderate | Moderate | Beginner |
| Porcelain | $5 – $50 per sq. ft. | High | High | Intermediate |
| Natural Stone | $15 – $100 per sq. ft. | Moderate | Low | Advanced |
| Glass | $10 – $50 per sq. ft. | Low | High | Advanced |
| Cement | $8 – $40 per sq. ft. | High | Moderate | Advanced |
Now that you know the differences between ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass and cement tile, you can determine the right fit for your space and budget!
Section 2: Preparation for Tile Flooring Installation
Careful prep work is crucial for a successful tile installation. Rushing through this stage can lead to cracked tiles, uneven surfaces, grout issues, and a floor that doesn’t last. Follow these essential tips for prepping your subfloor and setting yourself up for tile flooring success!
Materials and Tools Needed
- Tile (calculate sq. footage needed)
- Mortar adhesive and grout
- Trowels, sponges, buckets
- Tile cutter and nippers
- Leveling tools
- Safety gear – gloves, goggles, knee pads
Step 1: Clear and Clean the Floor
Remove all furniture, rugs, and debris. Sweep and mop thoroughly to clear away dirt, dust and grime. For concrete floors, use a concrete degreaser and etch the surface with an etching solution. This will help the mortar adhere properly.
Step 2: Check for Level Surfaces
Use a level tool to identify any low or uneven areas on the floor. Fill dips and holes with a patching compound. The surface needs to be as flat and smooth as possible for proper installation. Grind down any high spots.
Step 3: Prep and Measure
Snap chalk lines to mark your starting point and dry lay a few tiles to map out your layout. Ensure the floor is perfectly squared. Measure carefully to account for borders and difficult areas like corners. It’s better to have extras than run short!
Take your time with prep and measure twice – it will pay off later in the install process. Now you’re ready to start laying that gorgeous tile flooring!
Section 3: Installation of Tile Flooring
You purchased the perfect tile and prepped the floor within an inch of its life. Now comes the fun part – seeing your beautiful new floors come to life! Follow these crucial installation steps for flawless tile flooring:
Step 1: Apply Mortar Adhesive
Use a notched trowel to spread thinset mortar evenly across the floor, one section at a time. Cover only what you can tile during the mortar’s open time (20-30 mins). Too much mortar can dry and prevent adherence.
Step 2: Lay Tiles
Arrange tiles loosely on the floor how you envision the pattern. Then begin setting tiles in the mortar one by one. Use tile spacers between each tile for even grout lines. Gently press down to adhere – no sliding! Work in small sections.
Step 3: Set Irregular-Shaped Tiles
Measure and mark borders, corners and other tricky spots. Cut tile pieces to fit using a wet saw or nipper. Set these pieces in mortar first, then fill in the middle.
Step 4: Grout Tile Joints
Let mortar fully cure per manufacturer instructions (usually 24 hrs). Mix grout and work it into the joints using a rubber grout float. Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge and let it dry. Buff any remaining haze with a cloth.
Step 5: Seal and Finish
Once grout has cured, apply a penetrating sealer to protect porous natural stone or cement tile. Buff the floor with a soft cloth to reveal the final, shiny finish!
Following the manufacturer’s instructions for prep, setting, and cure times is crucial. Patience pays off – slow down and do it right. Now that the messy work is done, it’s time to maintain your lovely new tile.
Section 4: Maintenance of Tile Flooring
You took the time to install your flooring properly – now keep it looking fabulous with proper maintenance:
- For ceramic, porcelain and glass tile, sweep mop regularly with warm water and mild detergent. Vacuum stone or cement tile instead.
- Spot clean stains immediately – don’t let them set in.
- For deep cleaning, use concentrated tile cleaners or baking soda paste. Rinse thoroughly.
- Re-apply penetrating sealers to natural stone, cement and grout every 1-2 years.
- Fix chips or cracks right away with patching kits available at hardware stores.
- Have professionals regrout floors every 10-15 years to refresh the look.
Follow these cleaning tips by tile type:
Ceramic and Porcelain
Vacuum or sweep frequently to prevent gritty debris from scratching. Mop with a vinyl floor cleaner. Avoid bleach products as these can damage the tile over time. Ammonia-based cleaners will keep grout looking new.
Natural Stone
Sweep or vacuum twice weekly. Mop with warm water and pH neutral stone cleaner – avoid acidic cleaners than can etch. Reseal every 1-2 years.
Glass
Use soft microfiber cloths when cleaning to avoid scratches. Clean with a non-abrasive bathroom or kitchen cleaner and water. No waxes or sealers needed.
Cement
Sweep or vacuum frequently. Mix baking soda and water into a paste to scrub stains. Reseal cement tile every 1-2 years.
Grout
Mix one part water and one part vinegar to clean and whiten grout. For heavy duty cleaning, use an oxygen bleach powder and scrub brush.
Set a routine for sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming your floors every 1-2 weeks to prevent dirt buildup. Address spills and stains quickly to avoid permanent damage. With proper care, your tile floors will stay looking like new for many years!
Section 5: Pro Tips for Tile Flooring
Overwhelmed with the tile options? Unsure how to mix patterns or choose grout color? We asked flooring pros to share their insider design secrets:
Choosing Tile Type
- For heavy traffic areas, choose very durable porcelain or thicker floor tile rated V4 or V5 for abrasion resistance.
- In bathrooms, use slip-resistant tile rated COF 0.5 or above, especially on shower floors.
- Opt for rectangular sized tiles 6×24 inches or larger to make rooms appear bigger.
- Mosaic tiles can work in small doses but take longer to install – simplify for DIY projects.
Mixing Tile Looks
- Pick one statement tile for the floor, then do a complementary solid tile for the shower or backsplash.
- Frame decorative floor accents with a border of plain tile. Finish the border along the perimeter.
- Choose grout color to complement or match the tile for a seamless look.
Common Install Mistakes
- Don’t spread mortar too far ahead – it can dry out before tiles are set.
- Make sure subfloor is flat, or tiles will crack. Use levelers if needed.
- Tile spacers are a must for even grout lines. Remove them before grouting.
- Mix grout thoroughly and apply it evenly into joints. Missing areas can cause cracks.
Maintenance Musts
- Seal natural stone, cement tile and grout annually to prevent staining.
- Don’t use vinegar long-term on grout. It breaks down the sealant.
- Address chipped or missing tiles right away to prevent further damage.
- Clean spills ASAP and follow cleaner instructions closely to avoid etching.
Take your time, use quality materials, and care for your floors properly. Follow the experts’ tips and you’ll have a tile floor that delights for decades to come!
Conclusion
We covered a lot of ground! To recap, these are the key points for tile flooring success:
- Research your tile options and choose quality materials that work with your budget and lifestyle. Be realistic about DIY skill level.
- Prep properly – don’t rush through this crucial step. Clean, level, and measure the floor precisely.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions explicitly for mortar, laying tile, grout, and cure times. Patience is key.
- Maintain your floors regularly by sweeping, mopping, sealing, and addressing issues immediately.
- Invest in professional repairs if DIY is beyond your skill level.
With the right tile choice, proper installation, and regular upkeep, you can have showstopping floors that will make you smile every day. Just take it one step at a time!