Tile flooring styles for every lifestyle

Which tile material is right for your project?

The material you choose affects both the look and performance of your floor.

• Ceramic tile: Ceramic tile is an affordable, versatile choice available in countless colors, patterns, and finishes. It's an excellent option for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and many other living spaces.
• Porcelain tile: Porcelain tile is denser and more durable than ceramic, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and rooms exposed to moisture. Many porcelain tiles realistically mimic hardwood, marble, concrete, and natural stone while offering easy maintenance.
• Natural stone tile: Natural stone tile creates a timeless, one-of-a-kind appearance. Materials like slate, marble, travertine, limestone, and granite feature natural color variation that adds character and elegance to any room.
• Glass tile: Glass tile is commonly used as a decorative accent rather than flooring. Its reflective surface brightens kitchens, bathrooms, shower walls, and backsplashes while adding color and visual interest.

How do tile size, shape, color, and finish affect your design?

Choosing the right tile goes beyond selecting a material. Size, shape, color, and finish all influence the finished look.

• Tile size: Large-format tiles create an open, seamless appearance with fewer grout lines. Medium-sized tiles offer timeless versatility, while mosaics and small-format tiles are ideal for shower floors, backsplashes, and decorative accents.
• Tile shape: Traditional square and rectangular tiles remain popular, but today's homeowners also love subway tiles, hexagons, plank tiles, and geometric patterns that create custom layouts and visual movement.
• Tile color: Neutral shades like white, gray, beige, and taupe remain classic choices because they coordinate with nearly any décor. For a bolder statement, colorful or patterned tiles can create beautiful focal points. Many porcelain tile collections also replicate the appearance of natural wood and stone.
• Tile finish: Matte finishes provide a soft, natural appearance and added slip resistance. Polished finishes reflect light and create an elegant look, while textured finishes add depth and improve traction in wet areas.

Can tile be used beyond the floor?

Absolutely. Tile is one of the most versatile design materials available. Many homeowners extend tile throughout their homes by using it for:

• Kitchen backsplashes
• Walk-in showers
• Shower walls
• Bathroom walls
• Fireplace surrounds
• Accent walls
• Laundry rooms
• Entryway features

Coordinating floor and wall tile creates a cohesive design while decorative mosaics add personality and texture.

How do you maintain tile floors?

Tile flooring is easy to maintain and can look beautiful for decades with routine care. To keep your floors looking their best:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit.
• Damp mop with a manufacturer-approved cleaner.
• Wipe up spills promptly.
• Clean grout periodically to prevent buildup.
• Use mats near exterior doors to reduce tracked-in debris.
• Seal natural stone as recommended to protect against stains.

Ceramic and porcelain tile require very little maintenance, making them excellent choices for busy households.

The advantages of shopping at our tile store

Since 1998, Gateway Floors has helped customers throughout Heyburn, ID find flooring they'll enjoy for years. Our experience installing tile, stone, hardwood, laminate, and vinyl flooring allows us to recommend products that fit your lifestyle, budget, and design goals.

When you visit our tile shop, you'll enjoy:

• Thousands of flooring samples
• Quality products from leading manufacturers
• In-stock tile selections
• Personalized design assistance
• Professional installation
• Friendly, knowledgeable customer service

Whether you're remodeling one room or your entire home, we'll help you choose tile that delivers lasting value and timeless style.

Frequently asked questions about tile flooring