![]() The term mosaic tile refers to a particular type of ceramic or porcelain tile that uses small tiles preattached to a flexible mesh backing. Materials alone start at about $2 per square foot and can range up to $20 per square foot or more for special-order designer porcelain tiles. Still, many DIYers can and do install porcelain tile floors themselves.Ĭosts of porcelain tile floors tend to be somewhat higher than standard ceramic tile, though there is considerable overlap. Because porcelain is a thicker, harder material, cutting tiles is a more difficult process that requires a motor-driven wet saw. Porcelain tiles are typically thicker than standard ceramic tiles, and most are suitable for flooring as well as walls. Porcelain is also preferred in situations where a premium, luxury look is desired, as the manufacturing process allows for porcelain to take on the look of a variety of materials-including natural stone, wood, or even metal. Technically, porcelain tiles typically have a slower water-absorption rate which makes them a good choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and showers, where water resistance is critical. Porcelain tile is a particular type of ceramic tile, made from finer clays that are fired at higher temperatures than standard ceramic tiles. Best for: Any floors where a luxury look is sought.This reclaimed wood floor is actually high-definition porcelain tile. Many DIYers find ceramic tile installation to be a great project for saving money-the process is time-consuming, but not exceptionally difficult. Professional installation costs can also vary widely, depending on what kind of removal or subfloor preparation work is necessary. Prices for ceramic tiles vary widely, but it is possible to find basic ceramic floor tiles for as little as $1 per square foot (materials only)-or as much as $15 per square foot for imported designer tiles. Higher numbers provide better resistance to slipping. Pay attention to the Coefficient of Friction (COF) rating, which determines how much slip resistance the tile has. When choosing a ceramic flooring tile, select a variety rated for use on floors, and one that has some texture to make it less slippery. ![]() Many tiles are rather thin materials that are rated only for wall use. Not all ceramic tiles are appropriate for use on floors. Usually, ceramic tile is given a glossy glazed top surface to make it impervious to water, but this glazing can also make the tiles slippery underfoot, especially when wet. The term "ceramic tile" is sometimes used to describe all types of hard tile materials, but it more accurately refers to a particular type of tile created by molding earthen clays into flat shapes and firing them under high temperatures to harden them. ![]() Depending on your region and on the level of preparatiwork required, professional installation adds $3 to $7 per square foot to the overall cost of a tile floor.īefore choosing to DIY, it's wise to do some research on each type of tile and make sure your experience and skill level are up to the challenge. Natural stone tiles, for example, are very heavy and brittle, and installing them is best left to a pro who is experienced with subfloor preparation and the use of powerful welt saw to minimal breakage and waste. Thus, while just about any DIYer with even a small amount of experience can succeed at installing basic ceramic tile, terra cotta tile, or even porcelain tiles, other tiles are best left to professionals. Some tiles are so heavy that special subfloor preparation or reinforcement may be needed. The process is similar for all types of tile, so in theory most DIYers with a moderate to advanced level of skill and experience can tackle installation of any of these flooring materials.īut the different tile materials vary greatly in their thickness and hardness, and many require a powerful wet sasw to effectively cut pieces for fitting around borders and obstacles. The joints between tiles are then filled with a mortar-based grout, allowed to harden, then sealed to make them resist water penetration and stains. The tiles are usually installed using a cement-based thin-set adhesive over an underlayment of cement board that is screwed down to the subfloor. ![]() Most hard tiles for indoor applications have a similar installation profile. Learn about eight different types of tiles that are used for flooring and how to distinguish wall tiles from flooring tiles. Hard flooring tiles generally add real estate value to any home when compared to carpet, laminate, or vinyl flooring.īut there is an amazing amount of diversity among tiles, and not all tiles are appropriate for use as a flooring surface.
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