Tile Resource Page

Find the Perfect Tile & Trust Expert Installation with The Tile Genie

Thanks to a combination of durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal, tiles are an excellent choice for a broad array of home projects and upgrades. These multi-functional materials can handle the rigors of daily use while offering endless design possibilities through their diverse range of colors, textures, and material options. They’re also easy to care for, making them perfect for any setting, from interior rooms to outdoor spaces, and providing a fuss-free solution that can enhance the beauty and functionality of your home. However, different tile materials have wide-ranging characteristics, so it’s important to not only choose the right tile for your project but also make sure it’s installed properly.

The Tile Genie is a proud, locally owned company with strong ties to Oklahoma. Unlike franchises or large corporations, we’re a dedicated team of skilled professionals with extensive experience in general construction, tile installation, and kitchen and bath remodels. With decades of expertise and a passion for quality craftsmanship, we take pride in delivering top-tier results. Our trusted network of licensed contractors and highly skilled tradespeople across the state allows us to provide a seamless, stress-free installation experience. Through strong partnerships and an unwavering commitment to excellence, we ensure every project is completed with precision, efficiency, and superior quality.

Close-up detail of floor tiles installation. Home improvement, renovation - ceramic tile floor adhesive, mortar.

The Importance of Professional Tile Installation

No matter what kind of tile project you’re tackling, proper, professional installation is crucial for ensuring the longevity and functionality of your tile. Professional installers bring the expertise and precision needed to achieve a flawless finish, preventing common issues such as uneven surfaces, loose tiles, and subpar grout application that can arise from DIY attempts. 

Proper installation also guarantees that tiles are correctly sealed, enhancing their resistance to water, stains, and wear. This not only extends the lifespan of your tiles but also helps avoid costly repairs and replacements down the line. 

Professional installers adhere to strict industry standards and local building codes, providing peace of mind and ensuring the safety and stability of your tiled spaces. Investing in professional installation ultimately enhances the aesthetic appeal and value of your home, making it an important consideration for any tiling project. 

At The Tile Genie, we take a professional, methodical approach to every tile installation, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience from start to finish. Our process includes:

  • Personalized Consultation. We begin by understanding your vision, style preferences, and functional needs to create a customized plan.
  • Detailed Planning. Our team develops a structured approach that balances aesthetics, durability, and efficiency while staying within your budget and timeline.
  • Expert Coordination. We handle every aspect of the project, from material selection and surface preparation to installation and finishing touches.
  • Skilled Craftsmanship. Our experienced professionals use industry best practices, high-quality materials, and precision techniques to ensure flawless results.
  • Transparent Communication. We keep you informed at every stage, providing clear updates and expert guidance so you can feel confident throughout the process.

With The Tile Genie, you can trust that your tile installation is in expert hands, delivering both beauty and long-lasting quality.

Choosing the Perfect Tile

Tile is a beautiful, affordable, and durable option for just about any project, inside and out. However, not every tile is designed for every scenario, and installing the wrong type–or installing it improperly–can end up causing more problems and costing more money.

Here are some general tips for selecting tile:

  • For floor tiles, always check PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating for durability (scale ranges from 1 to 5, with 5 being the toughest) 
  • Ensure proper slip resistance ratings for wet areas
  • Consider maintenance requirements
  • Check water absorption rates for wet areas
  • Verify if tiles are rated for intended use
  • Consider climate for outdoor applications

Other factors to consider when selecting tile include:

Purpose and Location

  • Will it be exposed to water or moisture?
  • Is it for a high-traffic area?
  • Will it need to support heavy furniture/appliances?
  • Is it for indoor or outdoor use?
  • Will it be exposed to extreme temperatures?
  • Is it for walls or floors?


Style and Aesthetics

  • What’s your overall design vision?
  • Do you prefer modern or traditional looks?
  • Should it be a focal point or blend in?
  • How will it coordinate with existing elements?
  • Does the space need to appear larger or cozier?
  • How will natural and artificial lighting affect the tile’s appearance?


Material Considerations

  • What level of maintenance can you commit to?
  • Do you need slip resistance?
  • How important is stain resistance?
  • Do you want natural variation or uniform appearance?
  • Should it be textured or smooth?
  • Does it need special sealing or treatment?


Durability Requirements

  • What’s the expected lifespan?
  • Will it face heavy foot traffic?
  • Is impact resistance important?
  • How resistant to scratches does it need to be?
  • Will it be exposed to harsh cleaning products?
  • Does it need to withstand temperature changes?


Budget Factors

  • What’s your total project budget?
  • Have you included installation costs?
  • Are maintenance costs acceptable?
  • Did you account for additional materials (grout, sealant)?
  • Have you budgeted extra for waste/cuts?
  • What’s the long-term value proposition?

 

Types of Tile

Professional tile installers can help you choose the perfect tile for every project. Here are some of the most commonly used–and popular–types of tile and their best applications.

Porcelain

Porcelain tiles are made from refined clay and fired at higher temperatures. They can be designed to mimic natural materials like stone or wood.

Best Features of Porcelain Tile:

  • Extremely durable
  • Water-resistant
  • Frost-resistant
  • Can be glazed or unglazed 
  • Variety of designs and styles, including wood-look
  • Highly versatile option for various applications
  • Low maintenance

Ideal Uses for Porcelain Tile:

  • High-traffic areas (such as main entrances)
  • Bathrooms
  • Outdoor spaces
  • Commercial applications 

Considerations for Porcelain Tile:

  • Higher cost
  • Heavier weight
  • Professional installation recommended

Ceramic tiles are made from clay and other natural materials.

Best Features of Ceramic Tile:

  • Cost-effective
  • Wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns
  • Easy to cut and install
  • Good water resistance when glazed
  • Resistant to bacteria and allergens 
  • Easy to care for
  • Stain resistant
  • Eco-friendly

Ideal Uses for Ceramic Tile:

  • Indoor walls
  • Light-traffic floors
  • Backsplashes

Considerations for Ceramic Tile:

  • Less durable than porcelain
  • Not suitable for outdoor use
  • May chip more easily
  • Can get chilly in the winter

Glass tiles are made of real glass and usually get their color from a coating applied to the backing of the tile.

Best Features of Glass Tiles:

  • Reflective and decorative properties
  • Waterproof 
  • Unique and beautiful aesthetic
  • Easy to clean 
  • Can be eco-friendly if using recycled glass

Ideal Uses for Glass Tiles:

  • Accent walls
  • Decorative accent or border 
  • Backsplashes

Considerations for Glass Tiles:

  • Not for floors
  • Can be expensive
  • May show smudges
  • More delicate than other types of tile

Quartz tiles are engineered stone made from quartz crystals.

Best Features of Quartz Tile:

  • Non-porous and easy to clean
  • Resistant to stains and scratches 
  • Low maintenance
  • Versatile
  • Budget friendly

Ideal Uses for Quartz Tile:

  • Bathroom walls and floors
  • Kitchen counters
  • Bathroom counters

Considerations for Quartz Tile:

  • Can be slippery
  • Sensitive to chemicals and need to be cleaned with professional quartz cleaning products
  • Heavy furniture or other items can cause cracking

Metal tiles can be made from a variety of metals, including aluminum, copper, stainless steel, tin, and bronze.

Best Features of Metal Tile:

  • Modern and sleek appearance
  • Resistant to fire and water
  • Durable
  • Low maintenance
  • Sustainably recycled metal is environmentally friendly

Ideal Uses for Metal Tile:

  • Kitchen backsplashes
  • Feature walls
  • Accent tiles in bathrooms

Considerations for Metal Tile:

  • Can be expensive
  • Susceptible to scratches and dents, especially if not properly coated
  • Potential for corrosion if not cared for properly
  • Specialized installation skills needed

Luxury vinyl tile is made from multiple layers of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is a plastic resin. Then a decorative PVC layer is added to the top to give the tile its color and design.

Best Features of Luxury Vinyl Tile:

  • Durable
  • Waterproof
  • Easy to install
  • Many colors and designs
  • Budget-friendly

Ideal Uses for Luxury Vinyl Tile:

  • Kitchen floors
  • Basement floors
  • Bathroom floors
  • High-traffic areas

Considerations for Luxury Vinyl Tile:

  • Can be difficult to remove or repair
  • Prone to scratches and dents
  • Inconsistent quality
  • Not a sustainable material
  • Can discolor over time

Stone mosaic tiles are made from small pieces of stone such as marble, granite, limestone, slate, and travertine.

Best Features of Stone Mosaic Tile:

  • Creates beautiful and intricate patterns and designs
  • Versatile
  • Durable
  • Eco-friendly
  • Anti-slip

Ideal Uses for Stone Mosaic Tile:

  • Accent walls
  • Backsplashes
  • Shower floors
  • Decorative borders

Considerations for Stone Mosaic Tile:

  • Higher cost
  • Time intensive installation, depending on the intricacy of the design
  • Requires sealing and careful maintenance

Terracotta tiles are made from clay that has been shaped and fired in a kiln.

Best Features of Terracotta Tile:

  • Warm, rustic appearance
  • Durable
  • Resistant to fire and sunlight with insulating properties
  • Antibacterial and hygienic
  • Traditionally reddish-brown, but can come in a variety of colors, textures, and designs

Ideal Uses for Terracotta Tile:

  • Bathroom floors
  • Kitchen floors
  • Floors in outdoor areas
  • Decorative walls and accents

Considerations for Terracotta Tile:

  • Expensive to install and maintain
  • Prone to chipping and cracking
  • Requires sealing and regular maintenance
  • Can be difficult to repair 
  • Porous and easily stained unless glazed

Wood Look Tile is made from ceramic, stone, cement, or porcelain, but looks like wood

Best Features of Wood Look Tile:

  • Highly durable
  • Resistant to scratches 
  • Versatile and can mimic any shade of wood
  • Look like wood, but are not as sensitive to extreme temperatures or moisture
  • More budget friendly than real wood floors

Ideal Uses for Wood Look Tile:

  • High-traffic areas
  • Kitchens
  • Bathrooms
  • Laundry rooms
  • Commercial spaces

Considerations for Wood Look Tile:

  • Can be difficult to install and replace
  • Can be slippery
  • May not add to home’s resale value

Natural stone or quarry tiles can be made from a variety of materials. Common stones include marble, granite, slate, travertine, onyx, limestone, quartzite, and sandstone

Best Features of Natural Stone or Quarry Tile:

  • Unique patterns
  • Natural beauty
  • Adds value to property
  • Long-lasting

Ideal Uses for Natural Stone or Quarry Tile:

  • Luxury spaces
  • Feature walls
  • High-end floors

Considerations for Natural Stone or Quarry Tile:

  • Requires regular sealing
  • Higher maintenance
  • More expensive
  • Can be porous

Types of Stone Tiles

Natural stone and quarry tiles come in a wide range of materials. Types of natural stone tiles include:

Marble

Marble Tile Features, Uses, and Considerations

Best Features of Marble Tile:

  • Unique, elegant veining patterns
  • Available in many colors
  • Adds luxury appeal
  • Can increase property value
  • Takes polish extremely well

Ideal Uses for Marble Tile:

  • Luxury bathrooms
  • Feature walls
  • Elegant foyers
  • High-end fireplaces
  • Vanity tops

Considerations for Marble Tile:

  • High maintenance
  • Easily etched by acids
  • Requires regular sealing
  • Scratches relatively easily
  • Expensive
  • Can stain if not sealed properly
  • Not ideal for high-traffic areas

Granite Tile Features, Uses, and Considerations

Best Features of Granite Tile:

  • Extremely durable
  • Heat resistant
  • Each piece unique
  • Wide range of colors
  • Resistant to scratches

Ideal Uses for Granite Tile:

  • Kitchen countertops
  • High-traffic floors
  • Outdoor spaces
  • Commercial applications
  • Entryways

Considerations for Granite Tile:

  • Requires periodic sealing
  • Heavy weight
  • Higher cost
  • Professional installation needed
  • Some varieties can be porous
  • Color may vary between pieces

Slate Tile Features, Uses, and Considerations

Best Features of Slate Tile:

  • Natural slip resistance
  • Durable
  • Distinctive texture
  • Good for outdoor use
  • Weather resistant

Ideal Uses for Slate Tile:

  • Outdoor patios
  • Pool surrounds
  • Rustic floors
  • Shower floors
  • High-traffic areas

Considerations for Slate Tile:

  • Can flake over time
  • Limited color range
  • Rough texture can be hard to clean
  • Needs sealing
  • May have thickness variations
  • Can be scratched

Travertine Tile Features, Uses, and Considerations

Best Features of Travertine Tile:

  • Classic, timeless look
  • Natural warm tones
  • Can be polished or tumbled
  • Good heat resistance
  • Natural variations add character

Ideal Uses for Travertine Tile:

  • Mediterranean-style spaces
  • Indoor floors
  • Wall cladding
  • Pool surrounds
  • Bathrooms

Considerations for Travertine Tile:

  • Naturally porous
  • Requires frequent sealing
  • Can pit or form holes
  • Sensitive to acidic substances
  • Regular maintenance needed
  • Not ideal for kitchen counters

 

Onyx Tile Features, Uses, and Considerations

Best Features of Onyx Tile:

  • Unique translucent appearance
  • Luxuriant aspect
  • Wide range of colors and patterns

Ideal Uses for Onyx Tile:

  • Decorative walls, backsplashes, and countertops
  • Feature areas in luxury spaces

Considerations for Onyx Tile:

  • Soft, brittle, and fragile
  • On the higher price end

Limestone Tile Features, Uses, and Considerations

Best Features of Limestone Tile:

  • Natural, earthy appearance
  • Consistent color tones
  • Good for carving/detailed work
  • Customizable sizes
  • Adds warmth to spaces 
  • Resistant to mold and bacteria

Ideal Uses for Limestone Tile:

  • Low-traffic floors
  • Wall cladding
  • Fireplace surrounds
  • Bathrooms
  • Decorative elements

Considerations for Limestone Tile:

  • Softer than other stones
  • Very porous
  • Easily scratched and etched
  • Requires regular sealing and maintenance
  • Not suitable for high-traffic areas
  • Can be damaged by acidic cleaners
  • Sensitive to weather exposure

Quartzite Tile Features, Uses, and Considerations

Best Features of Quartzite Tile:

  • Extremely hard and durable
  • Similar look to marble
  • Resistant to heat
  • Less porous than other stones
  • Resistant to scratching

Ideal Uses for Quartzite Tile:

  • Kitchen countertops
  • High-traffic floors
  • Outdoor applications
  • Bathrooms
  • Commercial spaces

Considerations for Quartzite Tile:

  • In the higher price ranges
  • Professional installation required
  • Limited color range
  • May still need sealing
  • Can be difficult to cut
  • Heavy material

Sandstone Tile Features, Uses, and Considerations

Best Features of Sandstone Tile:

  • Natural, rustic appearance
  • Available in earthy tones
  • Highly durable yet gentle underfoot 
  • Can withstand heavy foot traffic and extreme weather
  • Environmentally friendly material

Ideal Uses for Sandstone Tile:

  • Outdoor patios
  • Walkways
  • Pool surrounds 
  • Indoor feature walls

Considerations for Sandstone Tile:

  • Requires sealing and regular maintenance
  • Can be prone to erosion over time
  • Higher price range
  • Porous and more susceptible to staining
  • Limited color options

Best Tiles for Specific Areas and Purposes

Shower Walls

Best Tile Types for Shower Walls, and Tile Types to Avoid for Shower Walls

The best tile types for shower walls include:

  • Porcelain (best overall choice)
  • Large-format ceramic
  • Glass tiles
  • Natural stone (if properly sealed)

Tile types to avoid for your shower walls are:

  • Unglazed tiles

Best Tile Types for Shower Floors, and Tile Types to Avoid for Shower Floors

The best types of tile for a shower floor are:

  • Small porcelain tiles (2×2 or mosaic)
  • Textured or matte finish for slip resistance
  • Natural slate

Tile types to avoid for your shower floors are:

  • Large format tiles and those with polished (slick) finishes

Best Tile Types for Bathroom Floors, and Tile Types to Avoid for Bathroom Floors

The best types of tile for a bathroom floor are:

  • Porcelain
  • Ceramic
  • Natural stone (sealed)

Tile types to avoid for your bathroom floors are:

  • Slip-resistant rating

Best Tile Types for Kitchen Countertops, and Tile Types to Avoid for Kitchen Countertops

The best types of tile for Kitchen Countertops are:

  • Large-format porcelain
  • Granite tiles
  • Quartzite

Tile types to avoid for your Kitchen Countertops are:

  • Ceramic tiles (they are too soft for countertops)

Best Tile Types for Kitchen Floors, and Tile Types to Avoid for Kitchen Floors

The best types of tile for Kitchen Floors are:

  • Porcelain (most durable)
  • Ceramic
  • Natural stone

Tile types to avoid for your Kitchen Floors are:

  • Stain resistance and durability

Best Tile Types for an Entryway, and Tile Types to Avoid for an Entryway

The best types of tile for an Entryway are:

  • Porcelain (best for high traffic)
  • Natural stone
  • Slate (good traction when wet)

Tile types to avoid for your an Entryway are:

  • Durable and slip resistant

Best Tile Types for Outdoor Spaces, and Tile Types to Avoid for Outdoor Spaces

The best types of tile for Outdoor Spaces are:

  • Porcelain rated for outdoor use
  • Natural slate
  • Granite

Tile types to avoid for your Outdoor Spaces are:

  • Frost-resistant and slip-resistant with a weather-resistant rating

Best Luxury Tiles if You’re Splurging

High-end tiles are made from premium materials and can elevate just about any project from “everyday” to “exquisite.” Although they may come at a higher price point, the rewards are enhanced features, stunning sophistication, and exceptional craftsmanship and durability.

Some of the best types of luxury tiles to splurge on include:

  • Marble (especially high-grade Calacatta or Statuario)
  • Granite
  • Natural Stone or Glass mosaics
  • Onyx
  • Porcelain

Luxury tiles should have:

  • High durability and unique appearance in line with your overall design

Best Tile on a Budget

Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice versatility, durability, or aesthetic appeal.

Here are some of the best types of tile if you’re on a budget:

  • Ceramic
  • Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
  • Wood Look Tile

If you’re on a budget, avoid:

  • Materials with poor durability or inconsistent color and design

Best Tile for Easy Maintenance and Cleaning

Effortless maintenance and easy cleaning are some of the biggest perks of choosing tile.

These types of tile are among the easiest to clean and maintain: 

  • Ceramic
  • Porcelain
  • Glass
  • Quartz

For easy-clean, easy-to-maintain tile, look for:

  • Smooth, non-textured, and non-porous surfaces as well as larger tiles

Best Tile for Pets and Kids

Pets and kids can put your floors and surfaces through the wringer, so you want to make sure the tile you choose is not only durable but easy to maintain and clean with added features like slip resistance.

If you have pets and/or kids, consider some of these types of tile:

  • Porcelain
  • Ceramic
  • Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

With pets and kids, your tile should be:

  • Easy-to-clean with non-porous surfaces, slip resistant, and durable

Best Tile for Heated Bathroom Floors

Underfloor heating in your bathroom is truly next-level, but not every type of tile is suited for it.

With tiles like these, you can enjoy beautiful durability and toasty toes for spa-like experiences every day:

  • Porcelain (best option)
  • Ceramic (budget option)

The best types of tile for heated bathroom floors feature:

  • Slip resistance, and durable, non-porous material

Trust Your Tile Installation to the Pros at The Tile Genie

When it comes to tile installation, experience, craftsmanship, and reliability make all the difference. At The Tile Genie, we bring decades of expertise to every project, ensuring that your installation is not only visually stunning but also built to last. Unlike big-box contractors, we are a locally owned company with deep Oklahoma roots, dedicated to delivering high-quality, detail-oriented work. From floors and backsplashes to showers and custom designs, our team of skilled professionals and trusted tradespeople will handle every aspect of your project with precision and care. We take pride in our seamless approach, offering personalized design solutions, expert installation, and a streamlined process that minimizes disruptions to your home.

Choosing The Tile Genie means choosing a partner who values quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction above all else. We use only premium materials from trusted suppliers, ensuring that your tile not only enhances the beauty of your space but also stands up to daily wear and tear. Our process includes thorough consultations, transparent communication, and professional execution, so you’ll always know what to expect at every stage. Whether you’re looking for natural stone, porcelain, marble, or intricate mosaic designs, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. 

Let The Tile Genie transform your space with high-quality tile installation that blends beauty, functionality, and longevity—schedule your consultation today!