Ceramic Tile
Colorful, affordable and classic — best for walls and dry floors.
What it is & how it's made
Ceramic is made from clay and fired at lower heat than porcelain, leaving it slightly more porous. It's ideal for wall tile and light-traffic dry floors, and offers the broadest range of colors and decorative glazes.
Pros
- Affordable
- Huge color and pattern range
- Easy to clean
- DIY-friendly
Cons
- More porous than porcelain
- Can crack under heavy impact
- Cold underfoot
- Grout maintenance
Best rooms
Worst rooms
Maintenance
Sweep and mop. Seal grout periodically. Avoid heavy impacts on unglazed tiles.
See Ceramic Tile side-by-side with up to two other flooring types.
Ceramic Tile: quick answers
Is Ceramic Tile waterproof?
Ceramic Tile rates "High" for water resistance — suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and spill-prone areas.
How long does Ceramic Tile last?
Ceramic Tile typically lasts 30–50 years with proper care.
Which rooms is Ceramic Tile best for?
Ceramic Tile performs best in Kitchen, Bathroom walls, Entryway, Laundry. It's less ideal for Outdoor (freeze risk), Heavy-traffic floors.
Is Ceramic Tile a good choice for homes with pets?
Yes — Ceramic Tile is pet-friendly, resisting scratches and everyday wear from kids and animals.
How much does Ceramic Tile cost per square foot?
Ceramic Tile runs about $2–$8 per square foot for the material. Installation is priced separately.