Hint: It starts with thinking beyond just colour and pattern.
Renovating your space? Whether you’re tackling a full‑blown kitchen overhaul or giving your mudroom a glow‑up, your choice of floor tile sets the tone—literally and figuratively. But before you get hypnotized by trendy herringbone patterns or that one dreamy tile you saw on Pinterest, hit pause.
Here are four questions to ask yourself before falling head over grout for the wrong floor tile.
1. What’s Going Down in This Room?
Tiles aren’t one‑style‑fits‑all—especially if you live in a house where kids spill juice, dogs track mud, or someone (naming no names) is prone to “aggressive” cooking.
For hardworking spaces like kitchens, laundry rooms, mudrooms, and entryways, porcelain tile is your best bet. It’s stain‑resistant, water‑resistant, and practically indestructible. Bonus: it looks amazing.
Try this:
- Aura Canvas Matte 12×24 Glazed Porcelain Tile– A modern slate‑inspired porcelain that balances style and grit.
- Super Black Slate Matte 12×24 Glazed Porcelain Tile– Bold, dark and durable—a strong choice for high traffic zones.
Prefer something softer underfoot? Vinyl tile might still be worth considering for basements or family rec rooms—especially if there’s a chance of dampness or unexpected water drama (we’re looking at you, old washing machine).
2. Is Size Really Everything? (Short Answer: Kind of.)
Floor tile size has a surprising effect on how your space looks and feels. Bigger tiles can make a small room feel larger, but there’s a sweet spot—too big and they’ll overpower a tiny space.
Smaller or mid‑sized tiles, like 12×24, work beautifully in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and galley kitchens, especially when laid in creative patterns like herringbone or chevron.
Try this:
- Genesis Dove Matte 12×24 Glazed Porcelain Tile – Italian porcelain in a 12×24 format with refined texture.
- Mood Ivory Matte 12×24 Glazed Porcelain Tile – A softer tone with a workable size for cozier rooms.
Need a visual? Use our Room Visualizer Tool to preview tiles in your space—no imagination required.
3. How Much Abuse Will It Take?
Think long game. A guest bathroom might not need the same durability as your high‑traffic hallway. If your floor is destined for dirty shoes, heavy furniture, or zooming pets, choose a tile that laughs in the face of wear and tear.
Look for PEI‑rated porcelain or 2 CM outdoor pavers for max durability. They’re made to last and perfect for indoor‑outdoor flow—hello, patio reno!
Try this:
- Blend Stone Anthracite 24×24 2CM Porcelain Paver – Heavy duty, weather‑resistant, and built for indoor/outdoor life.
- Ark Silver 24×24 2CM Porcelain Paver– Sleek, refined, and outdoor‑ready with the robustness you need.
4. Got Kids, Pets… or Both?
Between muddy paws, spilled juice boxes, and the occasional flying toy truck, your flooring needs to work with your family—not against it.
Porcelain tile with a matte or textured finish is ideal. It offers better grip (less slipping!) and hides pet hair or messes. Tiles with darker grout are also a smart choice—they’re lower maintenance and more forgiving between cleanings.
Try this:
- White Carrara Matte 24×24 Glazed Porcelain Tile– A lighter marble look that hides subtle messes and keeps a refined feel.
- Dolomite Matte 12×24 Glazed Italian Porcelain Tile– Smaller scale, strong texture, user‑friendly for family zones.
TL;DR – Quick Tips
- Kitchen? Go stain‑proof (porcelain).
- Bathroom? Small‑format tile makes it feel bigger.
- Busy hallway? Prioritize durability.
- Pet zone? Choose slip‑resistant finishes and darker grout.
Still unsure? Our tile experts are here to help. Visit your nearest Tile Town location, or log into TileTown to start planning like a pro.