There are various types of Tiles out there, here is an overview on the main ones.
TRAVERTINE is a type of limestone created by hot springs from all over the world. Because of this natural mix of minerals in travertine each tile has a unique pattern and character. This makes it perfect for a one-of-a-kind floor for your home.
PORCELAIN is manufactured tile from natural clay and created by heating to higher temperatures. This creates a denser floor tile that can be used indoors and outdoors. Available in a variety of textures, colours and sizes making it a perfect choice for durability and style.
WOOD LOOK is the fastest growing category in tile comes in both ceramic and porcelain. This tile mimics the warmth and feel of natural wood but is much easier to maintain and more durable than natural wood.
CERAMIC is not as durable as natural stone tiles, glazed ceramic tiles are non-porous, reasonably affordable and low maintenance. Be aware that some options don’t work well outdoors because of exposure to the elements, ceramic tiles can create a seamless, organic interior-exterior flow.
There are almost infinite options when it comes to colour, size and design, so your selection will come down to the look you want and the size of your budget. Black and white tiles laid in a chequered pattern is a classic look.
We are seeing more and more classic herringbone looks, which are amazing!
TERRAZZO is a mix of stone, marble, glass or even metal chips in a cement-based mixture. It looks great when used as an alternative to polished concrete as it can be laid seamlessly. Terrazzo was once popular as a less-costly alternative to marble, but these days it is sought after for its large selection of colours and durability.
STONE can be used as tiles or slabs. There’s an imperfect beauty to stone, thanks to the subtleties that only Mother Nature can produce. The colours available range from cream to gold sandstone, through to dark, smoky bluestones and everything in between.
One of the main things to consider when it comes to stone flooring is how porous it is. Porosity varies greatly and will determine how your floor will need to be sealed and maintained.
CONCRETE is a versatile product that can be polished to a smooth, shiny surface, tinted to practically any colour or acid-washed to create a soft mottled or etched look. Mixing decorative particles can add subtle texture to concrete.
SLATE is a metamorphic rock, which means they are made by either immense heat or pressure from the earth’s crust. Slate was originally a black mud laid down on the bottom of the sea or lake and can be found across the world. Due to its creation, it showcases an amazing rich colour palette that ranges from copper to red, navy to sage and tan to black. This fine grained floor tile can be used both indoors and outdoors.
MARBLE is a highly durable, naturally created stone that exists in almost every colour due to the variability of component minerals. Marble tile can have multiple finishes from polished to honed and brushed to tumbled, this classic floor tile is fit for any room in your home.
PEBBLE AND STONE MOSAIC tile bring the beauty of nature indoors. The natural tones and unique shape of each floor tile can provide unique character to any room.
ONYX is a softer stone and has a transparent quality that doesn’t exist in any other stone. Onyx tile is best suited for indoor floors, counter tops, and in medium to light traffic areas. This smooth texture and earth shade tones are sure to stand out in your home.
QUARTZITE is also a metamorphic rock (see Slate) with a natural, yet elegant appearance. It comes in many different colours and textures and is highly durable and versatile It is suitable for both commercial and residential and can be used indoors or out.