Centuries ago, ceramic and clay tiles were shaped by hand, sun-dried, and either painted or used plain. Today, tiles are fired in kilns at temperatures exceeding 1,000°C for durability. You can choose plain tiles, baked once, or glazed tiles, baked twice to fix a stain-resistant, liquid-glass finish that enhances strength. Another modern method produces porcelain tiles by compressing a clay-dust mixture and firing it, creating smoother, harder, less porous tiles ideal for commercial use.
The Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) rating system helps users select tiles based on durability, ranging from 0 to 5. A PEI 0 tile is suitable only for walls, while a PEI 5 tile withstands heavy foot traffic in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. For most home applications, tiles rated 3 or 4 are sufficient.
Creative and Practical Applications
Popular Uses
Ceramic tiles are most commonly used as floor coverings but also shine as custom countertops in kitchens and bathrooms or as wall finishes, particularly in shower areas. Flooring options include straight rows, diagonal patterns, or intricate custom designs with varied shapes and colors. Some even craft circular patterns with custom tiles. In kitchens, ceramic tiles often serve as backsplashes above countertops, using bull-nosed tiles for smooth edges and cove-shaped tiles for 90-degree transitions to walls. Ornate tiles appear as accent walls or ceramic chair rails in restaurants and public spaces. Unglazed tiles line bread and pizza ovens or serve as cooking surfaces, replacing pans.
For artistic expression, hand-made custom tiles can be painted with glazing paint, fired in a kiln, and displayed as wall murals or decorative pieces in plate holders or on tables. With ceramic tiles, your imagination sets the limits.
DIY Installation
Installing ceramic tiles is a manageable DIY project for many households. Beginners should start with a small floor area where mistakes can be corrected inexpensively. Wall or ceiling installations and complex patterns require the expertise of a skilled tiler.
Pros and Cons of Using Ceramic Tiles at Home
Ceramic tiles are visually stunning but come with considerations. Their hardness means dropped glass or fragile items will likely shatter. Tiles can also break if heavy objects are dropped, and replacing grouted tiles is challenging. Unlike hardwood, which can be refinished, or laminate, which is easily removed, ceramic tiles are permanent and require significant effort to replace. These factors highlight the importance of planning installations carefully to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Ideal Rooms for Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles excel in high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and game rooms due to their water resistance, stain resistance, and ease of maintenance. A plain-colored tile floor provides a versatile backdrop for decorating. For budget-conscious homeowners, installing tiles in a foyer is a cost-effective upgrade, offering easy-to-clean flooring that impresses guests upon entry.
Cost Comparison
Ceramic tiles are competitively priced among premium flooring options. Basic glazed tiles start at $0.99 per square foot at home centers, with a good selection of colors. Inexpensive laminate flooring may match this price but wears poorly under heavy traffic, while quality laminate costs $2–$5 per square foot. Carpet, including padding and installation, ranges from $3 to $5 or more per square foot. Hardwood flooring starts at $4 per square foot. Ceramic tiles offer exceptional value, delivering durable, low-maintenance flooring for years.
