Ceramic tile
Ceramic tile lasts a lifetime. It's almost impossible to chip or crack it. It doesn't stain, and water does not adversely affect it. It's easy to clean up water or other liquid spills. This flooring is resistant to dirt and dust as well as pollen and other allergens. It’s also environmentally friendly and easy to clean. Be sure to choose a product that is rated Grade II for light traffic areas like bathrooms and Grade III for heavy traffic areas like kitchens. This tile can be glazed or unglazed with a semi-gloss, matte or high-gloss finish.
Stone tile
Like ceramic tile, stone tile is made with natural materials. Common types of stone flooring are granite, slate, marble, and limestone, including travertine. Only granite and slate are recommended for kitchens. Typically, the surface of stone tile floors has one of three finishes: natural, honed, or polished.
- Granite – is available in thousands of colors; resists scratching after polishing
- Slate - available in dark, earthy tones; the surface is naturally textured
- Marble – can be found in a myriad of colors, more porous than granite
- Limestone – has an earthy appearance in both dark and light shades; the surface can be polished smooth or textured.
- Travertine - unusual crystallized look with an earthy tone; surface voids must be filled before honing or polishing the surface
