Whether you’re considering choosing tile that’s ceramic, porcelain or natural stone, The Home Depot has everything you’ll need to start your reno off on the right foot. There are a number of floor tile options to fit any design, all while staying on budget. We’ll help you navigate the different types of tile, patterns and more.
How to Choose Tile Flooring
Choosing the Right Tile
Shop Tile by Popular Size
Popular Tile Patterns and Styles
Tile can be arranged in various patterns, giving you many options to create the look that perfectly fits your space. Decorative tile is an easy way for you to create a great look with minimal effort.
Subway/Brick Lay Tile Pattern
Laid out horizontally side-by-side with clean lines. Great for use anywhere as it is one of the most versatile layouts for tile.
Diagonal Lay Pattern
Tiles are laid in a 45-degree angle creating a diamond grid. This pattern works great as a whole wall/floor or as a border.
Stacked/Straight Lay Tile Pattern
This is one of the most common patterns. Similar to the diagonal pattern, but straight - the tiles are laid side-by-side in a grid, stacking flush on top of each other to create perfect symmetry.
Hexagon Tiles
This classic pattern takes one of the most traditional shapes and transforms it into a pattern that is both eye-catching and beautiful. Good for flooring, backsplashes and more.
Basket Weave Style
To create the illusion that the tiles are ‘woven underneath’ one another like a basket, rectangular tiles are placed two-at-a-time in alternating directions.
Herringbone Tile Pattern
Rectangular tiles are laid in a zigzag pattern, creating the look of arrows or angles pointing in the same direction. Herringbone tile floors are best suited for entryways or high-traffic areas.
Tile Helpful Hints
Ensure that all the tiles you purchase are from the same dye lot. Dye lots determine the colour and size in ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles and the colour and pattern in vinyl tiles.
The average allowable size difference for ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles within the same dye lot is 1/16th of an inch; the size difference between dye lots may be greater.
Coefficient of Friction (COF) |
Coefficient of friction (COF) refers to the smoothness of the tile. It is rated on a scale of 0 to 1 with higher numbers, 0.6 and up, representing surfaces that are more slip resistant. Glazed floor tiles should not be used where there is a consistent presence of water, oil, or grease unless the COF exceeds 0.60. Ramped surfaces, irrespective of the slant of the incline, require a more slip resistant surface. It is recommended that a tile with a minimum of 0.80 COF be installed on these surfaces. Proper maintenance is critical. Improper maintenance can result in a contaminant build-up on the surface of the tile causing the tile to be slippery. |
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PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) Wear Rating |
PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) Wear Rating is the tile's resistance to abrasion: I and II - not suitable for floors (walls only) III - all residential IV - residential and light commercial IV+ - commercial and heavy traffic |
Water Absorption |
Water absorption is measured in proportion by weight: Non-vitreous - more than 7 percent Semi-vitreous - 3 to 7 percent Vitreous - 0.5 - 3 percent Only vitreous and impervious tiles should be used outdoors or in wet locations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
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To be used outdoors, the tile must be frost-proof and unglazed for floor use. Make sure the absorption rate is 0.5% or less; this will more likely be porcelain tile.
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It is not recommended. Structurally it would be sound; however, the gloss glaze would eventually show scratches. Consider using natural stone tiles for increased durability and elegance.
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Although both are made from clay, porcelain is made from a denser clay dust and baked at higher temperatures than ceramic. Porcelain is much more durable and has a lower water absorption rate.
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Stone tiles should be rinsed weekly with warm water and a non-abrasive, clear, non-acidic soap. For polished marble and granite, periodic application of a commercial polish is recommended.
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Wood tiles can be installed in patterns with unlimited design possibilities. They are real hardwood products with a self-adhesive backing that are easy to install.