While often grouped under the general term "ceramic tile," there are distinctly different types of tile, each with unique characteristics and best uses: 

Glazed Ceramic Tile: The most common type, glazed ceramic tile features a protective, often colored, layer baked onto the tile's surface. This glaze makes the tile impervious to water and stains, incredibly durable, and offers an endless spectrum of colors, patterns, and finishes (from matte to high-gloss). It's an excellent choice for floors, walls, backsplashes, and showers.

Unglazed Ceramic Tile: These tiles do not have a liquid glass layer applied to their surface. Their color is derived from the mineral content of the clay, giving them a rich, earthy, and natural appearance. Unglazed tiles often have a slip-resistant texture, making them suitable for high-traffic areas and outdoor applications. While more porous than glazed tiles, they can be sealed to improve stain resistance.

Porcelain Tile: Though technically a type of ceramic tile, porcelain is made from a finer, denser clay fired at higher temperatures, resulting in a tile that is even more durable, less porous, and highly resistant to water absorption than standard ceramic. This makes porcelain an ideal choice for both indoor and outdoor use, including heavy-traffic commercial spaces, as well as residential kitchens, bathrooms, and patios. Porcelain can also convincingly mimic other materials like wood and natural stone.

Quarry Tile: Another unglazed ceramic tile, quarry tile is typically made from natural clays and shale, giving it a rustic, earthy look. Known for its exceptional strength and slip resistance, it's often used in commercial settings but is also a great option for high-traffic residential areas, utility rooms, and outdoor spaces.

Terracotta Tile: Characterized by its warm, reddish-brown hues, terracotta is an unglazed, porous ceramic tile made from iron-rich clay. It offers a classic, rustic charm, particularly popular in Mediterranean and Southwestern design styles. Terracotta requires sealing to protect against stains and moisture.