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In many homes, floor tiles have become the flooring of choice. From ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles to tiles resembling hardwood flooring and more, there are as many possibilities with floor tiles as you can imagine. If you are preparing to do a home renovation on a grand scale,looking to replace carpet flooring with tile, or just want to change the look of one or two rooms, floor tile is a great option. Here at Oasis Tile, our team wants to help you make the best choices regarding floor tile. To accomplish this, we've gathered together the most important information you'll need to know, such as the pros and cons of certain tiles, how tile is installed, various design ideas for different rooms of your home, and of course tips on buying the best floor tile for your needs.

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When you choose various types of floor tile to use in your home, you are making a smart decision for many reasons. First, you'll be able to select many different styles that fit your design needs as well as your practical needs. Also, most floor tiles are relatively inexpensive, making them easy to fit into your project budget.

Many tiles, especially ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles, are easy to install, meaning you can make your tile installation a DIY project if you wish. As such types of tile as mosaic tile have increased in popularity in recent years, these and other types of tiles are being used in bathrooms, kitchens, family areas, and virtually anywhere else in a home.

Additional benefits of floor tiles include they are very easy to clean, extremely resistant to water damage, are made to be slip-resistant, and many others! As a result, whether you want to use floor tile on your bathroom floor, inside a shower, in your kitchen or an entryway, there will be very little chance of anyone slipping and sliding on the tile. Finally, most floor tiles are very durable, even in high foot-traffic areas. In fact, porcelain tile and ceramic tile can look virtually like new decades after they have been installed.

As we mentioned earlier, there are numerous types of floor tiles that will work well for any type of renovation project. For most of our customers here at Oasis Tile, porcelain tile and ceramic tile are the most popular choices, in part due to their versatility and affordable pricing.

Other types of floor tile include glass tile, mosaic tile, marble tile, granite tile, natural stone tile, and floor tile that looks and feels so much like hardwood flooring that it is almost impossible to tell the difference once it is installed.

Even as design trends come and go, floor tile continues to remain popular. Glass tile is a great choice in bathrooms, since it is water and slip-resistant, reflects light, and can make a room appear bigger. However, it can be expensive, so you'll need a big budget for your project. Mosaic tile is also extremely popular due to its unique appearance and versatility, allowing it to be used in the creation of wonderful works of art on a room's floor.

When you are looking at different types of tiles and notice there is floor tile and wall tile, your initial reaction is that they all look the same. However, looks can be deceiving. As a rule, we at Oasis Tile tell our customers there are many key differences between floor tile and wall tile.

The most important difference between these two types of tile is that wall tile is much thinner than floor tile, meaning it won't stand up well to being walked on over and over. In fact, wall tile used on a floor is very likely to develop cracks.

If you feel pieces of floor tile and wall tile, you will notice the difference in thickness, as well as the floor tile having an added texture. Tiles are also given ratings for their thickness and texture, which is something you should pay close attention to when buying tiles. A rating of 0 means a tile can only be used on walls, whereas a tile rated 5 is very durable, thick, and made to be used on floors where a high foot-traffic presence is expected.

When floor tile of any type is being installed, the rule for homeowners doing a DIY project as well as for experienced contractors is to measure twice, cut once. Since porcelain, ceramic, and other types of tiles will need to be cut to size, the last thing you want to do is cut your tile too small.

Underneath the tile, a substrate underlayment of cement board or backer board is often used to ensure the floor's surface is as flat as possible. If you don't follow this step and simply lay porcelain tiles or ceramic tiles on a floor that is not completely flat everywhere, it won't be long until tile after tile is cracking.

When you are ready to lay your first tile, remember to start in the center of the room and work your way towards the walls. Prior to putting down your first tile, measure each wall in the room to find the room's midpoint, then mark this on the floor as the spot where you will begin.

If you are not the best person at doing DIY projects, it is best to leave your floor tile job to a professional contractor. Even in the simplest of rooms, it can be easy for beginners to make mistakes that cost them time and money. On average, hiring a professional installer may add up to $10 extra per square foot, with a typical 150 square-foot room costing anywhere from $1,000-$2,000.

When customers or contractors are choosing the best size of floor tile for a project, we always recommend they do so by considering the size of the area to be tiled.

For example, if you are looking to use the best tiles for your bathroom, you could opt for very small mosaic tiles if you wish. Measuring one-inch square, this will be a time-consuming job, yet will give the bathroom a unique look all its own.

For many rooms, be it a bathroom, kitchen, living room, or bedroom, the most common size of floor tile used for these projects is 12-inch square. In some rooms that may be bigger, which is often the case with living rooms, some people prefer to use 18-inch square floor tile. Of course, keep in mind that the larger the tile, the higher the price in most cases, so prepare your budget accordingly.

In almost any room where floor tiles are installed, they will sooner or later get wet. When choosing floor tiles for your project, always consider just how wet the tiles are likely to get during a typical day.

If you are putting down floor tile in your bathroom, it is always best to get floor tiles that are very resistant to water, and are also slip-resistant. In this situation, porcelain and ceramic tiles work best. Though they both look and feel similar, porcelain tiles are less porous, meaning they absorb practically no water. Ceramic tiles, though very good, do have very small holes within their surface that can absorb small amounts of water over time.

As for floor tiles that are 100% water-resistant, look to WPC vinyl tile and vinyl plank flooring. Excellent to use in bathrooms and kitchens, this tile also works very well in laundry rooms and basements. However, keep in mind that most types of glass, mosaic, and natural stone tiles are also very resistant to water, giving you many choices for your project.

When a tile floor does sustain water damage, it usually is not the floor tiles themselves that are damaged. Instead, it is the grout between the tiles, as well as the adhesive used to bond the tile to the floor. Should you see tiles that are loose, you should pull them up to assess the damage underneath. If damage has occurred to the subflooring, you'll have no choice but to take up the floor and have it redone.

For bathroom tiles, small porcelain or ceramic tiles are among the most popular bathroom design trends. Since moisture and slip-resistance will be a top priority, small tiles that result in more grout being used will actually increase traction on the flooring. Colorful floor tiles are another great addition to any bathroom. Whether you’re adding an accent or creating a colorful theme, exploring different bathroom tile colors and choosing the one that best suits your style will guarantee you create the bathroom of your dreams!

Other areas of a home where floor tile is a great addition include the basement, laundry room, entryway, and even the wine cellar. For most of these spots, porcelain or ceramic tiles work best due to their slip and moisture resistance. When choosing floor tile for a wine cellar or entryway, consider using porcelain floor tiles that have a stone-like look to them, since this will blend in well with the existing decor.

Stone flooring, whether it is actual natural stone or porcelain or ceramic tile with a stone look, gives a great rustic look and feel to any home. Giving warm tones to rooms, stone tiles are relatively affordable and give a home a lived-in look. Another similar type of tile that’s very popular is vitrified floor tiles that come with many benefitsand offer a unique take with natural stone. There are even wood-like tiles that are made of ceramic or porcelain, but offer the aesthetic benefits of wood! This allows homeowners to get the wood floors they want without the cost.

Tile flooring is durable, aesthetically pleasing, and easy to clean. It can add stunning visual appeal to your entryway, gourmet kitchen, or luxury bathroom.

The cost to install tile flooring depends on the type of tile you select, your room size, and the installation’s complexity. Where you’re installing the tile and the required prep work also affect cost. 

In this article, we break down tile floor costs and when you’ll need a professional to tackle the job.

Average Cost of Tile Floor Installation

The cost of tile installation depends largely on the type of tile you select, its Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) rating, and the installation location.

• Tile material: Tile material options include linoleum, limestone, terrazzo, glass, metal, granite, ceramic, travertine, porcelain, mosaic, vinyl, terracotta, cork, and pebble. Each material falls into a different price range. For instance, porcelain or ceramic tile usually costs $4–$10 per square foot at a store such as Home Depot.
• PEI rating: PEI ratings range from zero to five, with zero being for wall tiles and five for busy areas such as a commercial kitchen or outdoor space. Tiles with higher PEI ratings are usually more expensive than those with lower ratings.
• Installation location: The location of the tile flooring impacts its cost, especially if odd cuts or shapes need to be made around a toilet, drain, or narrow location. Basement flooring is usually less expensive than tile flooring in a bathroom due to the difference in space and layout. Generally, a bathroom costs about $2,000 to retile while a large kitchen may run up to $2,800.

Cost by Tile Material

Tile flooring comes in various materials—some more budget-friendly than others. Consider the overall installation cost, durability, and maintenance of different tile materials before making a selection. Below are the most common materials and their average cost range.

Vinyl

Vinyl tiles have a smooth surface that’s comfortable to walk on. They’re typically installed in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms because they’re waterproof and easy to clean. They may be more prone to scuffing than other types of tile. Vinyl tiles come in a wide variety of colors, styles, and textures and are relatively affordable compared to other flooring types. Prices range from $2–$14 per square foot. 

Linoleum

Linoleum is made of all-natural, renewable ingredients including linseed oil, cork dust, wood flour, limestone, and natural pigments. It’s generally waterproof and very easy to clean, making it an ideal choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-moisture areas. 

This tile is often softer than ceramic or stone tile, providing a more comfortable surface to walk on. Linoleum typically costs $3–$8.50 per square foot and can last up to 40 years if properly maintained.

Cork

Crafted from a renewable resource, cork tiles have a smooth, spongy texture that gives the floor a comfortable feel. They’re also good sound insulators and work well in rooms that need soundproofing. 

This type of tile is relatively easy to install and maintain but can be damaged by sharp objects and moisture. Cork flooring is also susceptible to fading from direct sunlight. Cork floor tiles range from $5–$12 per square foot.

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Terracotta

Featuring attractive natural colors, terracotta is made from natural clay that has been fired at high temperatures, creating a strong and long-lasting product. It’s also waterproof, easy to clean, and resists stains and scratches. Terracotta tiles generally range from $7–$14 per square foot.

Ceramic

Ceramic tiles are durable, easy to maintain, and provide excellent resistance to water, making them ideal for wet areas. They usually have a smooth surface and glossy finish, though matte finishes are available as well. While ceramic tiles are relatively fragile and can crack or chip if not properly installed, they’re an affordable and aesthetically pleasing option. Ceramic tiles typically range from $7–$45 per square foot.

Travertine

Travertine is a type of limestone. Its porous nature makes it great for water-resistant flooring, as well as a softer feel underfoot. It’s often used in living rooms, hallways, and even bathrooms due to its ability to hold up against high foot traffic. 

Travertine’s earthy tones pair well with other neutral colors. It’s also great for creating a contemporary, modern look. It costs $8–$33 per square foot.

Limestone

Limestone is a sedimentary rock formed from calcium carbonate. It comes in various colors and textures and is typically a medium-to-soft stone, making it relatively easy to cut and shape for installation. 

Because it’s a porous material, limestone may require sealant to prevent staining and damage. Limestone has a matte, natural finish that provides an elegant look for floors and walls. These tiles typically range from $9–$27 per square foot.

Porcelain

Porcelain tile is made from fired clay and can have a smooth or textured surface. It comes in various styles, colors, and sizes and can be used to create stunning designs. Porcelain tile is typically mid-range in price, costing an average of $12–$40 per square foot. 

Granite

Granite is classic and durable, withstanding high levels of use without showing signs of wear or fading. Granite tile is also waterproof and relatively easy to clean and maintain. Its biggest drawback is cost: Granite tiles are on the expensive side and run $15–$30 per square foot.

Pebble

Pebble tile is a unique and stylish option for creating an eye-catching floor. It’s a natural stone tile that features small, rounded pebbles adhered to a mesh backing. Pebble tiles have a smooth texture and are often used in bathrooms and showers due to their waterproof characteristics. Pebbles can be slightly fragile due to their unique shape and texture, so take extra care during installation. They cost about $16–$30 per square foot. 

Mosaic

Mosaic tiles are made of small stone pieces, ceramic, glass, or metal, which are cut into shapes and set into grout to form a pattern. Besides their obvious aesthetic appeal, mosaic tiles are durable and easy to maintain, making them ideal for busy households. You can expect to spend $17–$40 per square foot for materials and installation.

Glass

Glass tile is one of the most versatile and aesthetically pleasing types of tile flooring. These tiles are known for their glossy finish and smooth texture, but are also incredibly durable, withstanding scratches and water damage well compared to other tile types. 

Glass is obviously fragile when handled, so extra care must be taken during installation. Glass tiles range from $20–$100 per square foot. 

Terrazzo

Terrazzo is a visually striking tile option that’s been around for centuries. It’s typically found in entryways, living rooms, and bathrooms. It’s made of marble or granite chips set into concrete and comes in various colors and patterns.

This high-end flooring is waterproof, scratch-resistant, low-maintenance, and durable. However, Terrazzo can be slippery, so it may not be the right choice for people with limited mobility or balance disorders. The price range for terrazzo tile varies from $25–$80 per square foot.

Metal

Metal tiles come in various styles and finishes, such as copper, brass, stainless steel, or bronze. They’re highly durable and resistant to water, heat, fire, and chemicals. Metal tiles are commonly used to create decorative textures or patterns atop other types of tile. Metal tile flooring cost varies based on metal type, but typically starts around $30 per square foot.

Cost by PEI Rating

PEI ratings measure a tile’s durability and abrasion resistance. The PEI rating scale ranges from zero to five, with zero being the lowest durability and five being the highest. Tiles rated one to three are considered suitable for indoor wall tiles, while tiles rated four and five are more suitable for floors. 

When choosing a tile, check the label or ask the supplier for its PEI rating. Higher PEI-rated tiles usually cost more than lower PEI-rated tiles because they’re more durable and long-lasting.

Cost by Location of Installation

Installing tile in intricate locations such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms may take extra time and advanced skill. The new tiles must be cut to fit around drains, sinks, and other fixtures. This can significantly increase labor costs, depending on the design’s complexity.

Compare the Cost of Different Flooring Materials

Homeowners in the U.S. can expect to pay between $750 and $5,800 per 200 square feet of flooring, based on the flooring material selected. See rates below:

*Cost data sourced and verified via holistic analysis of RSMeans construction estimates, national material and labor costs, and quotes obtained during consumer focus groups.

Additional Cost Considerations

Many additional costs determine the overall price of laying tile. Beyond materials and location, labor-related considerations such as individual tile size, subfloor repair or installation, and do-it-yourself (DIY) versus professional installation will also affect cost.

Removal of Existing Flooring

Removing old flooring material will increase your labor costs. Tile contractors usually include this cost in price estimates, but you should get confirmation before the job starts.

Size of Individual Tiles

Large tiles take less time and effort to install, while smaller tiles take longer to lay and more effort to lay correctly. If you’re installing a 12-inch by 12-inch tile, you’ll need to piece together four 6-inch by 6-inch tiles to complete the job. Creating a cohesive and consistent look requires precision and skill. The same can be said for mosaic tiles or other complex tile patterns that require multiple small pieces.

Subfloor Repair or Installation

Damaged or inadequate subflooring can increase your tile floor installation cost by about $2 per square foot. If you’re installing new subfloor, you may also pay for labor costs on top of materials. 

You should also factor any moisture-proofing or underlayment you may need into your cost estimates. Depending on the damage’s extent, repairing or replacing a subfloor can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

DIY vs. Professional Tile Installation

The decision of whether to hire a professional or install tiles yourself will largely depend on your project’s size and complexity. 

Professional Tile Installation

Hiring a professional contractor to install your tile flooring is a great way to ensure a quality job completed in a timely manner. Professional tile installers have access to higher-quality materials and can help you choose the right tiles for your space. 

They can also advise you on installation techniques and options that may not be available if you do the work yourself. Professional tile installers typically charge $3–$15 per square foot, depending on the job complexity.

DIY Tile Installation

DIY tile installation involves measuring and cutting the tile, preparing the subfloor, applying the adhesive, and grouting and sealing. While the process may seem daunting, it’s actually fairly straightforward and can be completed within a few days. 

The primary benefit of DIY tile installation is saving money on labor costs. The biggest disadvantage is that it requires some level of skill and knowledge to execute properly. Without proper preparation and planning, you could end up with uneven floors, loose tiles, or other imperfections. Remember that if you make a mistake, there’s no professional to fix it for you. You’ll need to start over or hire someone else to do it.

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How To Save On Tile Floor Installation

Whether you hire a pro or do it yourself, here are a few tips to save money on tile installation.

• Choose an inexpensive tile: Opt for an affordable option such as ceramic or vinyl rather than marble or granite.
• Shop around: Check out different tile suppliers and get multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting the best price possible.
• Opt for larger tiles: Larger tiles require fewer grout lines and less installation work, thus reducing labor costs.
• Reuse old tiles: If your old tiles are still in good condition, you may be able to reuse them instead of purchasing new ones.
• Purchase from discount outlets: Look for tile suppliers who offer discount outlets or closeout sales. You’ll get the same quality tile for a fraction of the cost.
• Bargain for bulk orders: If you need to buy a large amount of tiles, negotiate with the supplier for a bulk discount. 
• Avoid specialty tiles: It’s easy to be drawn to specialty tiles, but they can be costly. Opt for standard tiles if you want to save money.
• Install during off-season: As with most home improvement projects, it’s often cheaper to install tile during off-seasons. Tile contractors are typically less busy and more likely to give discounts.

How To Hire a Professional

If you decide to hire a pro, here are some tips for finding a qualified, experienced installer:

• Research different contractors and read reviews before hiring someone.
• Check references and make sure they have the proper licenses, certifications, and insurance.
• Get quotes from multiple contractors for comparison.
• Ask for a written estimate of cost and timeline.
• Make sure the contractor is knowledgeable about the type of tile you’re using.
• Ask for detailed instructions on your tile floor’s maintenance.
• Always request a written warranty.

Our Conclusion

Tile flooring is an attractive and durable option for any room in your home. It comes in various materials and styles that can fit nearly any budget and preference. With proper maintenance, tile floors can last for many years. 

The cost of tile floor installation varies greatly depending on the type of tile, individual size and shape, and installation complexity. Consider all involved costs, including removal of existing flooring, the cost of professional installation, and additional factors such as subfloor repairs or installations. Ultimately, the best choice for your home will depend on the room’s design and your budget and preferences.

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FAQ About Tile Floor Installation