Stylish and durable tile flooring for any space

Ceramic vs. porcelain tile: what's the difference?

Ceramic tile is made from natural clay and fired at high temperatures. It offers exceptional design flexibility and is commonly used for residential floors, walls, and backsplashes. Ceramic tile is also generally easier to cut during installation.

Porcelain tile is denser and less porous, making it highly resistant to moisture, heavy foot traffic, and wear. It's an excellent option for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, entryways, and many outdoor applications.

Should you choose glazed or unglazed tile?

The finish you select impacts both appearance and performance.

Glazed tile features a protective surface that enhances color while improving stain and moisture resistance. It's easy to clean and a popular choice for most residential spaces.

Unglazed tile offers a more natural appearance and often provides greater slip resistance. It's frequently selected for outdoor areas and commercial spaces where additional traction is beneficial.

Both options provide excellent durability when installed in the proper environment.

How do tile size, shape, and color impact your design?

Tile offers endless design flexibility.

• Tile size: Large-format tiles create a spacious, seamless appearance with fewer grout lines, while smaller tiles are perfect for shower floors, mosaics, and decorative accents.
• Tile shape: Classic squares and rectangles remain popular, while hexagons, planks, subway tile, and geometric shapes allow homeowners to create distinctive layouts and visual interest.
• Tile color: Light colors brighten a room and make spaces feel larger. Warm neutrals create an inviting atmosphere, while darker tones add depth and sophistication. Wood-look, marble-look, natural stone-look, and concrete-look tile continue to be popular design choices.

Where can tile be installed?

Tile is one of the most versatile flooring materials available. It's an excellent choice for:

• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Laundry rooms
• Mudrooms
• Entryways
• Living rooms
• Dining rooms
• Hallways
• Basements

Tile also works beautifully beyond the floor, including:

• Kitchen backsplashes
• Shower walls
• Bathroom walls
• Fireplace surrounds
• Accent walls
• Outdoor patios
• Pool surrounds

With countless styles and installation patterns available, tile can enhance nearly every area of your home.

How do you maintain tile flooring?

Tile is easy to care for and is designed to look beautiful for years. To keep it performing its best:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly
• Damp mop with a manufacturer-approved cleaner
• Wipe up spills promptly
• Clean grout periodically
• Use entry mats to reduce dirt and debris
• Place felt pads beneath heavy furniture

Most ceramic and porcelain tile requires very little maintenance, while natural stone products may need occasional sealing.

Find out what sets our tile store apart

At Bob's Discount Carpet, we believe choosing new flooring should be an enjoyable experience. Our experienced team takes the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and help you compare the many tile options available. With outstanding customer service, competitive pricing, professional tile installation, and a large selection of quality products, we're here to help you create a space you'll enjoy for years to come.

Frequently asked questions about tile flooring

Is tile flooring waterproof?

Ceramic and porcelain tile are highly water-resistant, making them excellent choices for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other moisture-prone spaces. Proper tile installation and grout maintenance help maximize their performance.

Is tile flooring a good choice for pet owners?

Yes. Tile resists scratches, moisture, stains, and everyday wear, making it one of the most pet-friendly flooring options available.

Can tile be installed over existing flooring?

In some cases, yes. The existing floor must be level, stable, and suitable for tile installation. Our team can evaluate your space and recommend the best installation method.

Does Bob's Discount Carpet install tiles?

Yes. We provide professional tile installation to help ensure your new floors are installed correctly and built to perform beautifully for years to come.