Types of Tiles Explained: Material & Room-Wise Guide

The Exciting World Of Tiles

Whether you’re a builder seeking high-performance flooring, an architect crafting statement spaces, or a tile dealer helping customers shop value-for-money tiles, having complete knowledge about each tile type is essential.

There are different varieties of tiles based on the material and application, and each tile brings something unique to the table. Let us take a look at the various types of tiles available in the market—which material are they made of, where they work best, and where they should be installed.

Types Of Tiles Based On Material

Numerous tiles in the market are made up of different materials and have slight variations in the manufacturing process that give these tiles their distinct features. Let us take a look at various tiles based on their material composition and where these tiles can be installed.

1. Ceramic Tiles

The Ceramic Tiles are the most commonly used flooring tiles due to their durability and non-porousity. These tiles are made up of silica and clay, fired at high temperatures. They come in glazed and unglazed variants.

The stain and water-resistant properties of these tiles make them a versatile flooring option for kitchens and bathrooms. These tiles are also suitable for moderate foot traffic areas like the living room and bedroom. 

2. Porcelain Tiles

Fired at higher temperatures as compared to ceramic tiles, Porcelain tiles are another very popular tile in the market. Made using finer, denser clay, these tiles are harder, more durable and less porous than ceramic tiles. There are two finishes or variants of these tiles – polished (glossy) and matt. 

Due to their low water absorption rate and scratch resistance, these tiles are ideal for installation in high-traffic commercial spaces and outdoor settings. These tiles can also be used in bathrooms and kitchens. 

3. Vitrified Tiles

Very popular choice amongst architects and builders, the vitrified tiles are increasingly making their mark in the tile industry. Their low water absorption, high density, and non-porous surface are just a few of the properties that make them an ideal wall and floor tile.

These tiles are available in multiple variants like GVT (Glazed Vitrified Tiles) and PGVT (Polished Glazed Vitrified Tiles), Double Charged and Full Body Tiles. These tiles are suitable for both residential and commercial settings, especially in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms, due to their durability, resistance to staining and ease of maintenance.

4. Natural Stone Tiles

Unlike ceramic or porcelain tiles, the natural stone tiles are made of marble, granite and travertine. These tiles are very durable and give that raw, rustic elegance to the walls. Granite tiles, especially, is highly scratch-resistant and suitable for indoor and outdoor applications. Travertine is porous, and its unique appearance is perfect for accent walls.

Marble is perfect for decorative flooring, while travertine tiles are the go-to tiles for outdoor walls, especially the garden ones. These tiles can also be used in bathrooms and pool surrounds. 

5. Glass Tiles

These are thin flat tiles made from glass, and available in different shades, shapes and transparencies. They are waterproof, do not fade in the sunlight, and pristine. Glass tiles are more fragile than ceramic or porcelain tiles and often textured for slip resistance when used for flooring. The glass tiles are primarily used in bathroom walls, swimming pools, backsplashes and accent walls.

Where Can Tiles Be Installed – Types Of Tiles Based On Application

Each space has its own aesthetic and durability demands, and that’s why there are separate tiles for separate areas. Below is a room-by-room guide on various tiles, which colour of the tile is the best for the particular space and which size will be perfect for installation.

1. Bathroom Tiles

Modern-day bathrooms demand aesthetic water resistance and safety. For this, anti-skid vitrified tiles are the best flooring option, and ceramic wall tiles resist moisture and are easy to clean.

Go for large-format tiles as there will be fewer grout lines and the bathroom will appear bigger. Use light-toned tiles like ivory, beige, light grey, or pastel tones for optimum lighting and a calm look.

2. Living Room Tiles

As it is evident in the name, the living room sets the tone for the home as it acts as the focal point of the property for insiders and outsiders. Living room tiles like Polished glazed vitrified tiles (PGVT) or natural stone tiles offer a blend of elegance, strength, and stain resistance—ideal for sustaining heavy foot traffic and furniture.

Using beige, cream, soft grey, or warm brown tiles, preferably large format, for living room walls and floors is just the aesthetic touch the space needs.

3. Kitchen Tiles

The kitchen is one of the most stain and spill-prone areas, and god, it’s a mammoth task to keep the walls and floors clean. That’s why kitchen tiles like vitrified, porcelain and ceramic tiles balance the beauty of the walls and floors with the aroma of everyday cooking.

For the floors, matte-finish vitrified or porcelain tiles provide the sturdiness, and for backsplashes and walls, ceramic or glossy subway tiles offer easy stain removal. 

4. Bedroom Tiles

Bedrooms require comfort, warmth, and a calm aesthetic. Glazed vitrified tiles with wood or stone textures offer the best of both comfort and elegance. Ceramic tiles, wooden-look glazed vitrified tiles, or even stone-finish tiles are perfect for bedrooms.

They offer comfort underfoot and a stylish finish without compromising on durability. Warm tones like sandy beige, muted taupe, or light greys create a serene atmosphere. Wood-look tiles in walnut, oak, or ash shades are ideal for cosier interiors.

5. Parking Tiles 

Full-body vitrified tiles or heavy-duty parking tiles are specifically engineered to handle weight and heavy loads, be it man or machine. These tiles are skid-resistant, weatherproof, and built to last.

Smaller tiles provide better load distribution and strength. Darker shades like terracotta, charcoal grey, or earthy browns to hide type marks and stains effectively.

7000+ Tile Designs – The Creative Quarry Of Spenza Ceramics

Spenza Ceramics is India’s leading tile brand, and we know that choosing the right tile goes beyond just aesthetics—it’s about adding durability, utility, and value to the space. Our design maestros and innovative team of tile experts keep on innovating and adapting to the rising need for aesthetic and durable tiles. Now that you know all about different types of tiles and where they can be used, you can suggest your clients the best tiles as per their needs.

For More Info To Follow Our Instagram Page.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between ceramic and vitrified tiles?
Ceramic tiles are ideal for moderate use and come in glazed and unglazed variants. Vitrified tiles, on the other hand, are denser, more durable, and better suited for high-traffic or wet areas.

2. Can the same tile be used in both indoor and outdoor spaces?
Not always. While full-body vitrified and certain porcelain tiles are suitable for outdoor areas, many indoor tiles lack the weather resistance and slip-proof surface needed outside.

3. Which tile size is best for small spaces like bathrooms?
Large-format tiles (like 300×600 mm) reduce grout lines and make compact spaces appear bigger and more seamless.

4. Are natural stone tiles suitable for all areas of the home?
Natural stone tiles are highly durable and visually rich, but they require sealing and maintenance. They work best in feature areas like living rooms, accent walls, or outdoor landscapes.

5. How do I choose the right tile colour for each room?
Light colours work well in small or dim spaces to reflect light, while warm or neutral tones add comfort and elegance. Darker shades are great for hiding stains in high-use areas like parking or kitchens.