Tile & Stone

Both are made from clay fired in a kiln, but porcelain uses a denser, finer clay body fired at higher temperatures. The result is a tile that is harder, less porous, and more resistant to water, staining, and heavy foot traffic. Ceramic is softer, easier to cut, and more budget-friendly, which makes it a practical choice for walls and lighter-use areas like backsplashes. Porcelain is generally the better choice anywhere moisture or heavy use is a factor, including bathroom floors, showers, and outdoor spaces.

Yes. Natural stone is porous, meaning liquids and cleaning products can penetrate the surface and cause staining or discoloration over time. Marble, travertine, limestone, and slate should all be sealed before grouting and resealed every one to three years depending on use. Quartzite is denser than most stone and more resistant, but still benefits from sealing in wet areas. Using a pH-neutral cleaner after installation helps extend the life of the seal.

Floor tiles can almost always go on walls, but wall tiles cannot always go on floors. Wall tile is typically thinner and may not be rated for the slip resistance or load-bearing required on floors. If you want a continuous look from floor to wall, common in showers and modern bathrooms, choose a tile with a floor rating and use it on both surfaces. Check the product's PEI rating and slip resistance coefficient before using any tile on a floor.

Larger-format tile tends to make small spaces feel bigger by reducing the number of grout lines and creating a more continuous visual field. A 12x24 or 24x24 tile in a light, neutral tone is often more effective in a small bathroom than a classic 4x4 grid. Matte finishes are more forgiving than high-gloss in tight spaces. That said, a well-placed small-format mosaic in a shower niche or as an accent can add depth without visually shrinking the room.

Porcelain tile with a low water absorption rate (less than 0.5%) and a slip-resistant finish is the standard choice for outdoor applications. It handles freeze-thaw cycles better than ceramic and resists fading from UV exposure. Natural stone can also work outdoors, but requires sealing and more maintenance, and some stones like marble are not well suited to outdoor conditions. Always check the tile's outdoor suitability rating before using it in an exposed area.