Ceramic tile is made from clay pressed into a shape by machine and fired in a kiln. The glaze is achieved by applying a number of liquid glass and metal elements to the body of the tile before it is fired at high temperatures. It provides color and creates a hard, shiny surface.

Porcelain tile is produced by pressing refined white clay into shape and then firing it in a kiln at very high temperatures. The resulting tile is extremely hard, absorbs very little or no water, and doesn’t stain or mildew. Color is not added to porcelain tile with glaze (as it is with ceramic tile). Instead, dye is mixed into the clay and so goes all the way through the tile. The lack of a glaze also means that tile makers can press finer, more intricate textures and patterns into the tile when it manufactured.

Natural stone tile is a natural material. Variations in color, texture, and markings are to be expected and are part of the charm of the material. This makes stone tile quite unique and beautiful when installed correctly. Although we usually think of stone as “strong,” it is a porous material. Natural stone has varying degrees of porosity depending on the type of stone. If left unsealed, everyday messes can easily penetrate the surface and left behind a stain. The most common stone tiles are:

• Marble
• Granite
• Limestone
• Travertine
• Slate

Marble is a limestone capable of receiving a high polished finish. It is a limestone that has crystallized through extreme heat and pressure. This crystallization process is what allows this metamorphic stone to accept a polish upon its surface. Each marble type exhibits varying degrees of crystallization. Therefore the amount of polish each type can accept fluctuates. Marble offers an upscale and classic appearance in the kitchen and on the floor. Be careful with the application of this elegant material. When used as a countertop surface marble will scratch, stain and etch easily. Not suitable for outdoor flooring and slippery when wet. In the shower, acidic soaps and shampoos will etch its polish and water spots will be magnified.

Granite forms by the slow cooling of magma deep in the earth’s crust, and is composed of silica-rich minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and smaller amounts of mica and amphibole. Granite resists scratches and heat. Therefore it is ideal for countertops. Can be used for indoor and outdoor flooring, even in climates that experience freezing. It is an excellent choice for bathroom vanities. However granite can stain. Highly porous granites should be sealed. When used as a flooring material its high gloss finish can become slippery when wet.

Limestone forms extensive, thick, multiple layers within the continental crust. It is formed from the sedimentary process, hence its classification as a sedimentary stone. Calcium from shells and sea life filter to the bottom of oceans, lakes, and river beds to combine with carbon dioxide resulting in the basic chemical makeup of limestone, carbonate. Limestone is a durable countertop material when selecting from the harder and denser types. These harder stones function similar to granite. Perfect for floors in the bathroom and shower. Offers sure footing when wet. Soft, porous limestone can scratch, stain, and etch more easily than the denser varieties. Sealing these softer stones will help to prevent staining but will not stop problems with etching and scratching. Penetrating sealer should be applied to countertop, floors, and wet areas.

Travertine is a form of rock created from limestone, but near hot bubbling springs, thus creating small holes and fissures upon its surface. It is an appropriate countertop material when selecting from the harder, denser varieties. It can be ordered factory filled for a uniform countertop surface. Ideal for floors and in the bathroom. Can be used in the shower. Offers sure footing when wet. Softer, porous varieties can scratch. Stain, and etch more easily than the denser varieties. Must seal for stain prevention on countertops. Requires a penetrating sealer in high traffic and wet areas.