Tiles have always been a huge part of flooring design across the world. Ceramic tiles have been in use for over 25,000 years. The definition of tile is fairly loose; generally speaking, tiles are thin and square or rectangular slabs of material which is used to cover a sub floor or other surface. The most common materials used for tile include ceramic, natural stone, porcelain, metal, baked clay, and glass.

A large part of the appeal of tiles comes from their versatility. Tiles can be installed on just about any surface, from floors to walls to roofs. They can also be used outside. On top of that, each type of tile has its own unique composition and profile – which means that you can always find a type of tile to suit the circumstances of your home.

Almost every home in Australia will have some form of tile, at least in the bathroom. This is because they are an easy way to waterproof the walls and floors. Showers, baths and bathroom floors are all areas which see a lot of water splashback. Installing tile in and around the bathroom is the cheapest, fastest, and most effective way to protect your walls and floors from damage.

Tiles come in a huge variety of colours and styles. Each type of tile has its own strengths, weaknesses, thicknesses and prices. Generally speaking, most tiles are waterproof, easy to clean, low maintenance, and durable. Tiles have a high stain resistance and are cool underfoot, which is helpful in the summer.

One drawback for most floor tiling types is that they are susceptible to impact damage, meaning that they can crack or chip. Certain tiles will resist this more effectively than others, but many tiles will fracture if something heavy is dropped on them. Porcelain is the most durable type of tile and can withstand heavy force before cracking (hence its use in garage flooring). Ceramic and marble tiles are the weakest, prone to cracking, scratching and wear.

Tile is not always one solid material either. There is a tile version of just about every flooring material on the market. This includes carpet tiles, rubber tiles, linoleum tiles, vinyl tiles and laminate tiles. To help you navigate this ocean of choice, here are a few of the best tiles for flooring in Australia.

Tile flooring products and ideas: Where to buy cheap floor tiles Australia online

10. Black and white

Black and white is a timeless tiling idea which has been used for centuries. It provides a sense of elegant neutrality that looks gorgeous in a foyer, kitchen or living room. Black and white tile is easy to come by and you can purchase the tiles pictured above here from Melbourne supplier Pavé.

09. Patterned

Patterned floor tiles are a lovely way to bring some vibrancy into a space. For an eclectic, art deco vibe consider using some brightly coloured tiles with geometric shapes. The tiles pictured above are also available from Pavé.

08. Slate

Slate is a type of natural stone which is exceptionally durable, long lasting and unique. Slate comes in a variety of colours and textures. Often it will be cut with a rougher, more natural finish. However, smooth slate tiles in a dark grey are also very common in modern homes. Learn more about slate types from Bellstone slate specialists.

07. Parquet

Parquet flooring is a type of hardwood flooring arranged in particular patterns. The most common example of parquet flooring is herringbone, a popular pattern which resembles the bones of a herringbone fish. Parquet tiles are easy to install and fairly affordable. Read more about parquet flooring here.

06. Limestone

Limestone is a gorgeous material with a rough natural finish. It is much more affordable than the average natural stone. On top of that, limestone is environmentally friendly and biodegradable. Limestone can be treated with sealers to improve its durability, maintenance and stain resistance.

05. Ceramic

Ceramic floor tile is very common in modern households. It is affordable, durable, easy to install and fire resistant. Ceramic floors are easy to clean/maintain, repair is simple and the material itself is allergen reducing.

04. Marble

Marble is without a doubt one of the most beautiful styles of decorative tile that you can have in your home. A marble feature will look first rate in any home, particularly if you have the budget to install a marble floor. For an overview on the best types of marble tiles, see here.

03. Terrazzo

Terrazzo is a well-known flooring material believed to be created by Venetian marble workers who repurposed scraps from marble slabs into their own flooring. It is associated with the Art Deco movement and has been seeing a huge boom in recent years. Modern kitchens and living rooms love terrazzo, from floors to walls to benchtops.

02. Mosaic

Mosaic tile is all the rage right now, especially in the hexagonal pattern pictured above. The aesthetic quality of mosaic tile is captivating, certain to enthral your guests. It is also relatively affordable and available almost anywhere. You can even find self-adhesive mosaic tiles for an easy DIY job. Mosaic tiles are also a very popular choice for wall tiles, though they look just as beautiful on the floor.

01. Polished porcelain

Polished porcelain is easily one of the best flooring options on the market. It is incredibly durable, resistant to wear and tear, waterproof, and beautiful. Polished porcelain is the chosen tile for most kitchens and bathrooms across Australia. Luxurious polished porcelain such as the tile in the image above can be purchased for around $150/square metre – see more at tile supplier National Tiles for details.