10 Different Types of Tiles for Your Next Bathroom Upgrade | Livingetc

Tiles are an exciting way to add color, pattern, and design to a project. But what type of tile to use? While you might gravitate to a particular color, shape, or layout, it’s crucial to know what the tile is made of.

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Different tile materials have various practical advantages that are definitely worth knowing about, as they can have a big impact on the feel and texture of your bathroom tiles.

“As a bathroom designer, I always say the right tile can completely transform a space, not just visually but how it feels to use every day,” says Tyler Stubbings, designer at Ripples. “Each material brings something different to a design, so the choice comes down to the balance of practicality, maintenance, and the overall look you want to achieve.”

For example, what on the surface appears to be real marble might be a porcelain lookalike. And what’s the difference between a cement and ceramic tile? If you’re in the market for a bathroom refresh, consider the following 10 types of tile.

1. Porcelain

Porcelain tiles are a super popular choice in today's bathroom tile trends, thanks to their durability, slip resistance, and low porosity. Porcelain is fired at higher temperatures and greater pressures than ceramic tiles, making it denser, harder, and more water-resistant.

That’s not all. You can choose from a variety of looks that mimic natural stone, wood, and concrete. That means you get superb design flexibility and top-notch performance, but without the upkeep.

“Porcelain has become a staple in bathrooms for good reason,” says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra. “It’s dense, non-porous and exceptionally hardwearing, which means it won’t stain, warp or fade with use. Unlike natural stone, it requires no sealing or specialist cleaning products, so it’s ideal for busy households or rooms with high humidity.”

Design-wise, you can run the same porcelain tile across floors and walls to give a bathroom architectural cohesion.

“It is also a good choice if you’re installing underfloor heating, as it conducts heat efficiently,” adds Grazzie. “Its only real limitation is that it lacks the irregularity and warmth of a hand-cut stone or artisan glaze and can often need a specialist tiler to install, but for a modern, low-maintenance bathroom, it’s hard to beat.”

2. Ceramic

For bathroom walls, ceramic tiles are a go-to decorating solution. In the ceramic vs porcelain tiles debate, ceramic is lighter than porcelain and easier to cut, and tiles come in a huge range of formats, from slim finger mosaics to scallops and squares.

“They tend to be lighter and easier to cut than porcelain,” says Tyler, “and often come in beautifully glazed finishes that can add a decorative touch to any bathroom.”

So, if you want to know which bathroom tile is easiest to clean, with wall tiles that reflect the light, ceramic is a win-win with the experts.

“The key with ceramic is to think about scale and proportion,” adds Grazzie at Ca’ Pietra. “A highly reflective glazed tile in a small format can bring real energy to a compact bathroom, while a large format tile in a matt finish will feel more restful.”

3. Marble

You can’t beat marble for an instant hit of high-end luxury. Marble tiles add wow factor in bucketloads with their striking colors and natural veining — from gorgeous green marble bathroom ideas to pink and everything in between. But they are timeless too, so you can rest easy, knowing your investment won’t go out of fashion in a couple of years.

Like all natural stone, marble is unique, so you’ll get a bathroom packed with character and individuality — something that man-made tiles struggle to replicate.

Marble is a type of tile that is also naturally cool underfoot and an elegant choice in both contemporary and traditional schemes.

That said, marble is porous, so sealing is essential — maybe annually in the bathroom — and take care to avoid acidic cleaners, which can damage the stone’s surface.

“Marble isn’t the right fit if you’re after a completely maintenance-free surface,” adds Grazzie at Ca’ Pietra, “but, for many, that’s part of the appeal, as it changes as it ages.”

Ca'Pietra has an extensive range of marble tiles for both walls and floors.

4. Limestone

If you thought that limestone tiles were just for kitchen floors, think again. Limestone and other natural stones like travertine can add so much warmth and texture to your bathroom. The soft, earthy tones of limestone make it the perfect type of tile for spa bathroom ideas.

“Natural stone brings a wonderful sense of character and calm to a bathroom,” explains Isabel Fernandez from Quorn Stone. “Every tile is unique, with tonal variation that adds depth and interest to the space. We recommend choosing a tumbled finish for a more tactile, lived-in feel, particularly underfoot.”

Like marble, limestone is a tile material that needs sealing and a bit more upkeep, but the character is definitely worth it.

5. Encaustic Cement

Encaustic cement tiles are made using a centuries-old technique that involves hand-pouring colored pigments into a mould, then compressing the tile under high pressure and leaving it to cure.

There’s no glaze involved; the color comes from the cement itself, which gives them a soft, matt surface and beautiful, powdery finish.

Cement tiles come in a range of striking patterns, which makes them a great alternative to bathroom paint or wallpaper.

“What I love about them is how they age over time,” says Damla Turgut, creative director of Otto Tiles & Design. “They pick up a natural patina that just gets better with wear, especially in high-traffic bathrooms. Encaustic cement tiles are perfect for people who want color, but in a way that feels quiet and grounded, and they also offer a natural anti-slip resistance.”

Cement tiles are generally quite thick, typically 1.6cm to 2.2cm thick, with 1.8cm being the most common thickness. So you’ll need to factor this into your modern bathroom ideas.

But look out for newer, slimline encaustic tiles around 30% thinner at 1.2cm thick. This makes them lighter and more suitable for vertical applications, such as bathroom walls, or where weight is a consideration, like upstairs floors.

All encaustic cement tiles, regardless of where they are used — walls or floors — must be sealed before and after installation and maintained regularly.

6. Zellige and Bejmat

There’s been a lot of talk of Zellige and Bejmat tiles for the bathroom — but what exactly are these types of tiles?

Well, both are handmade Moroccan tiles made from a special clay in the Fez region of Morocco. They are shaped and glazed entirely by hand and then fired in traditional kilns.

“No two tiles are exactly the same, so you’ll see slight variation in thickness, shade, and surface texture, which creates that incredibly reflective, jewel-like effect when laid,” adds Damla at Otto Tiles. “It’s this imperfection that gives both tiles their charm.”

And the difference between the two? Zellige tiles are small, usually square, and glazed. They have a slightly uneven surface and a high-shine finish that catches the light beautifully.

“I’d always recommend having minimal space between tiles and using an Almond colored grout on lighter tile colors to really let the shape and tone of each tile come through,” adds Damla. “I think Zellige is best suited for bathroom walls and tile-drenching wet rooms.”

Bejmat tiles, on the other hand, can be glazed or unglazed and are thicker with a more rustic feel.

“They’re often rectangular and add incredible depth and tactility to a bathroom scheme and look fantastic on a floor!” she adds.

7. Terracotta

Made from fired clay, terracotta tiles add a natural warmth and depth to a bathroom that’s hard to beat. You might be used to seeing it for kitchen flooring, but terracotta works so well in the bathroom too — if you know how.

“In a bathroom, terracotta works especially well in homes with a rustic or Mediterranean aesthetic,” says Grazzie at Ca’ Pietra. “It is important to know that terracotta is naturally porous, so it must be sealed properly, particularly in wet zones, and even then it will show some patina over time, but that is very much part of its charm.”

Some homeowners see this as a drawback, others as an asset; it depends on how you feel about materials ageing visibly.

In terms of what colors go with terracotta tiles, they pair beautifully with aged brass, plastered walls, and muted colors.

8. Terrazzo

With its playful mix of colors and embedded stone chips, terrazzo tiles are having a renaissance in the bathroom.

Terrazzo is made by binding marble, stone, or glass chips into a concrete or resin base, then polishing the surface to reveal a confetti of color and texture. With a striking look, terrazzo tiles are hardwearing, water-resistant, and relatively low maintenance.

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“It’s incredibly durable and adds a fun, contemporary edge to a bathroom scheme,” adds Tyler at Ripples.

Lots of companies use off-chips or surplus pieces of stone in the terrazzo mix, making it a sustainable option too.

Do remember that terrazzo tiles can be quite heavy, so it’s important to check your subfloor is suitable, particularly in older homes.

“It’s a strong visual statement, so we tend to pair terrazzo with minimalist cabinetry and clean-lined sanitaryware to avoid competing textures,” adds Grazzie at Ca’ Pietra.

9. Reclaimed Tiles

When it's time to remodel your bathroom, consider sourcing a job lot of reclaimed tiles — no one likes waste after all.

You can find small batches of reclaimed encaustic tiles, salvaged from countries like Spain, to create a one-of-a-kind, authentic mood for your bathroom.

Steeped in history, reclaimed tiles showcase the beauty of natural weathering and wear, so if you’re after a crisp and pristine look, this isn’t the right tile for you.

Alternatively, some brands like Bert & May recreate the antique colors and aged patina of a reclaimed tile but in a new format.

10. Glass Tiles

Don’t dismiss glass as a type of tile that's dated. In fact, today’s generation of glass tiles comes in a range of gorgeous shapes and finishes to reflect light and shade around your bathroom. Think frosted glass mosaics in watery shades or metallic glass Metro tiles for a luxe visual treat.

Mosaic glass tiles generally come on a mesh backing, so they’re easy to install. But do be aware that glass can easily scratch, so you need to take extra care when handling and installing it.

“Glass tiles are often used for feature walls or splashbacks,” adds Tyler at Ripples. “They reflect light beautifully, helping to brighten smaller spaces and add a sense of depth.”

Tile Types to Buy

Chic Bathroom Accessories

FAQs

What Is the Most Popular Tile for Bathrooms?

Porcelain tiles are a popular choice for today’s bathroom. This manmade material combines kaolin clay, finely ground sand and feldspar. Some porcelain tiles are made from a percentage of recycled materials which is another plus point. Porcelain tiles are also durable, low-maintenance, water-resistant and come in an incredible range of designs, from marble effects to wood, concrete, onyx and patterned tiles. Saying that, ceramic tiles will always be a good choice for bathroom walls. But for a lived-in feel, encaustic tiles and Zellige and Bejmat tiles will create tactile surfaces with a unique appearance.

Whatever type of tile you choose, it’s essential to ensure it’s waterproof and suitable for shower rooms, splashbacks, or cladding a bath. For bathroom flooring, ensure that the tiles are safe and slip-resistant. Beyond that, the choice is vast. Consider how you want your bathroom to look: clean and modern, or warm and lived-in. This will have a significant impact on the tile material you choose. And don’t forget tile size and price.

“When selecting tiles, it’s important to consider texture, color, scale, and format,” says Sophie Chapman, associate and interior designer at The Vawdrey House. “Varying the scale of the different tiles can add depth and visual interest to a space. For a more understated look, using the same tile but in different orientations to create borders and rows works well to add subtle interest.

"If you fall in love with a tile but it’s pricey, think about where you could use it in a small area – like behind a basin, inside a shower recess or as a framed feature panel,” she adds. “You can then pair it with a more affordable tile to balance the cost while still achieving the look that you desire.”

When homeowners are updating their tile, the debate rages on between “settling” for generic, buyer-pleasing tile versus letting your personal taste shine. Read on to learn about tile installations and how they can affect your home’s resale value, and to find suggestions for a stylish happy medium between timeless and trendy.

The Impact of Tile on Home Resale Value

Most tile updates take place in the kitchen and bath, which are also rooms that require more effort and money when it comes to renovation. In addition, these spaces can make or break a real-estate deal—and tile selections play a crucial role in shaping potential buyers’ perceptions of your home.

“Kitchen and bathrooms sell a house,” says Tisha Leung, This Old House design editor. The right choices can elevate your property’s appeal, while poor selections may deter interested parties.

How Tile Affects Buyer Perception

Tile is often one of the first design elements that catch a buyer’s eye, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Potential buyers may be turned off by tile choices that clash with their personal style or seem outdated. On the other hand, well-chosen tile can create a positive first impression and showcase the home’s potential.

Key Areas Where Tile Matters Most

Kitchens and bathrooms are high-traffic areas that see frequent use and serve as key selling points. In kitchens, backsplashes offer an opportunity to make a statement without overwhelming the space. Leung notes, “The backsplash is vertical, so it’s the first thing that you see. You can make your impact there.” In bathrooms, floor tiles and shower enclosures are areas where tile choices can significantly influence a buyer’s decision.

Establishing Your Move-Out Timeline Before Choosing Tile

Before diving into tile selection, figure out your future plans for the property. Your intended length of stay can guide your choices between more personalized designs and universally appealing options.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Tile Choices

If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, opt for more neutral, widely appealing tile options. These choices are less likely to deter potential buyers and can help your home appeal to a broader market. For longer-term stays, you have more flexibility to incorporate personal style while still considering future resale value.

The Seven-Year Rule for Creative Freedom

Leung suggests a practical guideline for balancing personal taste with resale considerations: “If you’re living in a house seven years or longer, you can have a little more creative freedom. If you’re planning on living there for less than seven years, be more aware of the resale value and what kind of remodeling you do.” This rule of thumb can help guide not only tile choices but other renovation decisions as well.

Timeless Tile Options That Appeal to Buyers

Certain tile styles have endured, remaining popular throughout decades and design trends. These options offer a safe bet for homeowners looking to maximize resale potential.

Classic Subway Tile Variations

White ceramic subway tile is a perennial favorite, but it’s not the only timeless option available. Mary Elizabeth Hulsey Oropeza of Mission Stone & Tile suggests exploring different formats: “Many people who are ’tile shy’ go for a different format than the go-to 3-by-6. A 2-by-4, 4-by-5, or larger rectangular shape is a safe bet for many homeowners.” These variations on the classic subway tile can add interest while maintaining broad appeal.

Natural Stone Tiles for Universal Appeal

Natural materials like travertine, granite, and tumbled stone offer timeless beauty that resonates with many buyers. These options can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any space. Their natural variations in color and texture also help to hide wear and tear, making them practical choices for high-traffic areas.

Vintage-Inspired Tile Designs

Some tile designs with historical roots have made a strong comeback in recent years. Penny tiles, for example, offer a charming nod to the past while remaining relevant in modern design. Oropeza notes the resurgence of hexagon tiles: “While the smaller hexagon mosaic has been a favorite in vintage-home remodels, the larger hexagon tile can be incorporated into older homes for an updated look or installed in new homes for a spin on an old classic.”

Trendy Tile Choices: When and Where To Use Them

While timeless options are generally safer for resale, incorporating some trendy elements can add personality and contemporary flair to your home.

Incorporating Trendy Tiles as Accents

Using trendy tiles in small doses can update your space without overwhelming potential buyers. Consider using bold patterns or colors as accent pieces in a backsplash or as a decorative border in a bathroom. This approach allows you to showcase your style while maintaining a broadly appealing base design.

Balancing Personal Style with Resale Potential

If you’re not planning to sell soon, you have more leeway to incorporate current trends. However, it’s still wise to consider how these choices might age. Opt for trends with staying power, such as large-format tiles or subtle textured surfaces, rather than overly bold or quirky designs that may quickly fall out of favor.

Practical Considerations for Tile Selection

Beyond aesthetics, there are several practical factors to consider when choosing tile for your home.

Durability and Maintenance

Select tiles that can withstand daily wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas. Porcelain tiles, for example, are known for their durability and resistance to staining. Regular maintenance and ease of cleaning can make a significant difference, particularly when presenting the home to prospective buyers.

Size Matters: Choosing the Right Tile Dimensions

Tile size can significantly affect the perceived spaciousness of a room. Larger tiles can make small spaces appear bigger, while smaller tiles can add intricate detail to larger areas. Additionally, larger tiles often require fewer grout lines, which can provide a cleaner and more modern appearance—an aspect increasingly appreciated by buyers looking for low-maintenance options. When selecting tile sizes, consider the scale of your space (and your tolerance for maintenance) to create a balanced look.

Grout Color and Its Impact on Overall Appearance

Grout choice is often overlooked but can dramatically affect the final appearance of your tile installation. For resale value, Jason Kyser, a home renovation expert at Pro.com, advises, “Stay away from contrast and instead make your grout ‘fade away.’ Acrylic stain-free grout is a great bet too.” Neutral grout colors like white, beige, gray, or black are generally safe choices that won’t detract from the tile’s appeal. These neutral tones often blend seamlessly with most tile designs, enhancing rather than distracting from the intended aesthetic.

Creative Tile Arrangements for Added Value

Even with classic tile choices, creative arrangements can add visual interest and value to your home.

Herringbone and Chevron Patterns

These timeless patterns can elevate the look of simple subway tiles or add sophistication to natural stone installations. Leung notes, “Things like herringbone and chevrons are very classic. You can find them in 200-year-old houses.” These patterns work well in kitchen backsplashes or as feature walls in bathrooms. They add a dynamic element to otherwise plain tiles, offering a visually engaging design that can make a strong impression on potential buyers.

Mosaic Inlays and Borders

Mosaic tiles can add a touch of luxury and craftsmanship to your tile installation. Consider using them as an accent strip in a shower or as a decorative border around a bathroom mirror. Leung suggests using mosaics sparingly: “Try one as a centerpiece on a floor or backsplash, instead of covering an entire surface in the look.” This strategic placement can serve as a focal point in the room, lending a sense of uniqueness and sophistication without overwhelming the space or the budget.

You don’t need to break the bank to make impactful tile updates that boost your home’s resale value.

Focus Areas: Kitchen Backsplashes and Bathroom Floors

Concentrate your budget on areas that offer the most visual impact for potential buyers. Kitchen backsplashes and bathroom floors are excellent starting points. As Oropeza advises, “The smaller space allows you to stretch your dollar on the bathroom floor, and if you can spring for it, update your shower walls and add a small backsplash behind the vanity.” By focusing on these strategic areas, you can achieve a high-end look even on a limited budget.

Cost-Effective Alternatives To High-End Tiles

Many affordable tile options mimic the look of more expensive materials. Porcelain tiles that resemble natural stone or wood can provide a high-end appearance at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, using smaller amounts of premium tiles as accents alongside more budget-friendly options can create a luxurious look without overspending. For example, a few high-quality marble tiles incorporated into a ceramic or porcelain backdrop can give the illusion of a more expensive installation.

DIY Tile Projects To Save Costs

Another way to save on tile installations is by undertaking smaller projects yourself. Simple installations such as backsplashes or small bathroom floors can often be handled by homeowners with a bit of guidance. DIY projects not only cut down on labor costs but also provide the satisfaction of having a hand in crafting your home’s aesthetic. Just be sure to follow installation guidelines carefully to ensure a professional-looking finish.

Our Conclusion

Choosing tile for your home involves balancing personal style with potential resale value. By focusing on timeless designs in key areas and incorporating trendy elements as accents, you can create a space that appeals to both your tastes and future buyers’ preferences. Remember to consider practical aspects like durability and maintenance alongside aesthetics. Ultimately, the best tile choices for your home will depend on your specific circumstances, including your timeline for selling and your local real estate market.

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