Types of Tiles in India - A Comprehensive Guide

Tiles are one of the most defining elements in any space, setting the tone, improving functionality, and adding long-term value. In a country like India, where climate, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences vary region to region, understanding the types of tiles available is crucial before making a choice. The right tile doesn’t just complete a room; it upgrades it.

With advancements in technology and design, the Indian tile market today offers everything from timeless natural finishes to contemporary digital prints, each suited to different needs and applications. A designer can curate a statement wall, a contractor can lay a high-traffic floor, or a homeowner can plan their first kitchen. Whatever your project, there is an ideal tile out there. This comprehensive guide breaks down all major tile types, their features, uses, and benefits. 

At MyTyles, we bridge convenience and choice, offering 8000+ tile designs online and in-store. We have seamless doorstep delivery across India, empowering you to choose wisely and confidently, no matter your project size or style.

Understanding the Basics of Tiles

Tiles are flat, durable pieces made from materials like clay, stone, or composite blends, used to cover surfaces such as floors, walls, and even countertops. While their primary function is to provide a protective layer, tiles have evolved into essential design elements that define the character and functionality of a space.

In today’s context, tiles are valued for their versatility, ease of maintenance, and ability to adapt to a wide range of climates, from humid coastal regions to dry interiors. Their popularity spans residential and commercial spaces alike, offering solutions that are both practical and visually appealing. Modern tiles are available in an array of materials, textures, patterns, and finishes, each suited for different applications. 

To make a well-informed decision, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of each type of tile. You can discover the top tile companies in our country, where you can get the best quality and variety of tiles, by going through this blog, Top 10 Tile Companies in India for 2025. Up next, let us explore the different types of tiles, including both traditional favourites and newer options.

Types of Tiles

Tiles come in many forms. Each tile material has its own strengths, limitations, and ideal areas of application. For instance, some are better suited for high-traffic floors, while others work beautifully as wall accents or backsplashes. The kind of tile materials available offer homeowners, designers, and construction professionals a wide range of choices, each with its own set of benefits. Below, we break down the most popular tile materials used today:

Vitrified Tiles

These are known for their strength, low water absorption, and aesthetic appeal. Made by heating a mixture of clay and silica at very high temperatures, these tiles are incredibly durable and resistant to stains and scratches. Vitrified tiles are ideal for high-traffic areas such as living rooms, hallways, and commercial spaces. They come in a variety of finishes, including glossy, matte, and textured options, offering versatility in design. To know more about vitrified tiles, read What Are Vitrified Tiles? Types & Everything You Need to Know. Have a look at Vitrified flooring below.

Ceramic Tiles

One of the most widely used tile materials is ceramic tiles. They are made from clay, minerals, and water, fired  in a kiln at high temperatures. They are known for their affordability, wide variety of designs, and ease of maintenance. Ceramic tiles are available in both glazed and unglazed finishes and can be used on floors, walls, and even backsplashes. They are especially popular in bathrooms, kitchens, and for decorative accent walls. Get a look at unglazed Ceramic flooring below.

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are denser, less porous, and offer superior durability. These tiles are made from finer clays and fired at even higher temperatures, making them ideal for areas exposed to heavy foot traffic or moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and commercial spaces. Their resistance to water and stains makes them a top choice for both floors and walls. Read our blog, All About Porcelain Tiles: Types, Benefits, and Uses, to learn more about porcelain tiles. Get a look at porcelain flooring below.

Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles are small, often square or hexagonal, tiles that are arranged together to create a larger, intricate pattern or design. These tiles offer a unique way to add a personalised touch to spaces. They are ideal for backsplashes, accent walls, or even bathroom and kitchen floors. Mosaic tiles are made of materials like glass, stone, and ceramic. They provide an endless number of design options. Have a look at the mosaic accent wall in bathrooms.

Terracotta Tiles

Known for their earthy, rustic charm, terracotta tiles are made from natural clay and are often left unglazed to maintain their natural texture. These tiles are best suited for areas where a warm, natural look is desired, such as living rooms, courtyards, and traditional homes. While they require regular sealing to protect against moisture, they provide a unique aesthetic that adds a rich, organic feel to any space. Get a look at this terracotta floored living room below.

Glass Tiles

Glass tiles are a sleek, modern choice for walls and decorative surfaces. Available in translucent, glossy, or textured finishes, they reflect light and add brightness to compact spaces. Often used in backsplashes, shower niches, and feature walls, glass tiles are stain-resistant but best suited for low-impact areas due to their fragile nature. You can look at these glass tiles in the bathroom backsplash below.

Terrazzo Tiles

Made by combining marble, quartz, granite, or glass chips with cement or resin, terrazzo tiles deliver a distinctive speckled appearance. They are durable, low-maintenance, and popular for both floors and walls in contemporary and retro-inspired interiors. The unique patterns make each installation one of a kind. Get a look at Vitrified flooring below. Get a look at the terrazzo flooring below.

Anti-Skid Tiles

For areas that require extra safety, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces, anti-skid tiles offer an essential solution. These tiles are designed with a textured surface that provides additional traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls, especially in wet conditions. Anti-skid tiles are available in both ceramic and vitrified finishes, offering both safety and style. Here is outdoor space with anti-skid tiles.

Glazed Tiles

Glazed tiles have a shiny, protective coating that gives them a glossy finish, making them easy to clean and maintain. The glaze also helps to protect the tile from stains, moisture, and dirt. These tiles are often used for wall applications, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, and are available in a variety of colors and patterns to match different interior designs. Have a look at glazed tiling in kitchen backsplash below.

Cool Tiles

Cool tiles are engineered to reflect heat and keep spaces cooler, making them ideal for regions with hot climates. These tiles are typically used in outdoor areas, terraces, and even for flooring in homes and buildings that require heat resistance. Their reflective properties help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature while also adding to the overall aesthetic of the space. You can see cool tiles in the patio below.

Digital Tiles

Digital tiles are a modern innovation in the tile industry, made by printing intricate designs onto the surface of the tile using digital printing technology. This allows for greater detail, vibrant colors, and the ability to replicate textures and patterns that would otherwise be difficult to achieve with traditional methods. These tiles are ideal for homeowners and designers looking for custom designs or unique patterns for their spaces. Have a look at digital printed office flooring below.

Designer Tiles

For those looking to add a touch of luxury and sophistication to their interiors, designer tiles offer the perfect solution. These tiles are often created in collaboration with renowned designers or feature unique patterns and textures that stand out. These tiles can be used as statement pieces for feature walls, floors, or backsplashes, bringing a touch of opulence to both modern and traditional interiors. Look at the kitchen backsplash with designer tiles below.

Stone & Brick Cladding Tiles

For exterior walls, façade highlights, or interior feature walls, stone cladding or brick cladding tiles add texture and timeless appeal. These tiles can mimic the look of real stone or exposed brick while being lighter and easier to install. They are an ideal decoration choice for living room walls, entry foyers, balconies, or exterior elevations. Cladding tiles come in various materials like ceramic, natural stone, or concrete blends and are available in earthy tones, vintage reds, or rugged greys. Have a look at the brick cladding wall in the living room below.

Printed Tiles

Printed tiles feature bold, intricate, and artistic patterns printed directly onto the tile surface. Statement walls or one-of-a-kind floor patterns are made easy with these tiles. Printed tiles allow for endless creativity, offering designs ranging from floral motifs to geometric patterns. They are commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and even living areas, allowing homeowners to express their personality and style. Look at the beautiful printed wall tile in the image below.

A Quick Comparison Table

With so many kinds of tiles available, making the right choice can feel overwhelming. To simplify your decision-making, we have put together a quick comparison table. It outlines the key features, strengths, and best-use areas of each tile type.

Types of Tiles by Application

Understanding the different types of tiles is just the first step. Choosing the right one for the right space is where design meets function. Every area in your home or project, be it a kitchen, living room, bathroom, or outdoor patio, has unique needs. The right tile ensures long-term durability, safety, and visual balance.

• Floor Tiles: Floors see the most wear in any space. The ideal types of floor tiles are those that balance strength with style. For most homes, vitrified and porcelain remain top choices as they are durable, easy to clean, and available in endless styles. In more relaxed settings like bedrooms or pooja rooms, terracotta or tiles with natural textures can bring warmth and character. High-traffic zones like hallways or commercial spaces benefit from scratch-resistant, full-body vitrified tiles.
• Wall Tiles: Types of wall tiles go beyond function. They can boost the space with color, texture, and design. Lighter ceramics and digital or printed tiles are excellent for kitchen and bathroom walls due to their resistance to stains and humidity. For living rooms or dining areas, designer and glazed walls offer a clean, contemporary finish. Walls can also host creative accents like vertical strip tiles, tile murals, or decorative inlays that make a subtle or bold statement, depending on your design vision.
• Bathroom Tiles: Bathrooms call for tiles that are water-resistant, safe, and low-maintenance. Popular types of bathroom tiles include anti-skid, vitrified, or mosaic tiles. Anti-skid surfaces are crucial for floors, especially in wet zones, while glossy ceramic or glazed tiles are ideal for walls. Smaller tiles like mosaics are commonly used in showers or wet zones for better grip and drainage. To add elegance, vertical panels with printed or digital designs can break the monotony of neutral bathroom walls.
• Kitchen Tiles: Functionality is key in kitchens. The best types of floor tiles for kitchen use are stain-resistant and strong. Vitrified and porcelain tiles offer both. For backsplash areas, where design meets daily wear, printed, digital, and designer tiles are easy to maintain. You can mix neutral flooring with vibrant backsplashes to create contrast. Don’t overlook slip resistance on kitchen floors especially in open or wet kitchens.
• Living Room Tiles: The living room is where functionality meets aesthetics. It is a space for comfort and visual impact. Polished vitrified or porcelain with marble or stone finishes are common for their elegant appearance and easy upkeep. In case of an earthy or traditional look, terracotta or designer add texture and charm. If you are aiming for a minimalist look, you can go for large-format tiles that reduce grout lines and make the space feel expansive.
• Outdoor Tiles: Outdoor spaces like balconies, terraces, sit-outs, or garden pathways need tiles that can withstand heat, rain, and heavy foot traffic. Recommended tile types for home exteriors include anti-skid, cool, and textured tiles. Stone-finish or rough-textured tiles offer better traction and blend beautifully with natural surroundings. Ensure proper slope and drainage when tiling outdoor floors. Try reading our blog Best Outdoor Tiles for Every Space: Complete Buying Guide for details on outdoor tiles. 

Choosing the Right Tile for Your Home

Tiles are not just about aesthetics. They impact functionality, comfort, and long-term maintenance. That is why it is important to approach the selection process with both design and practicality in mind.

• Assess the function of the space: Moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and balconies need anti-skid, while vitrified or porcelain tiles are ideal for high-traffic floors. Glossy or glass tiles can visually expand compact spaces.
• Match tiles to your lifestyle: For homes with kids or pets, choose scratch-resistant and low-maintenance surfaces like glazed or cool tiles. If you prefer rustic charm, terracotta or stone cladding tiles add warmth but may need sealing.
• Consider your climate: In hot areas, cool tiles and natural stone reduce surface heat. For damp or coastal zones, opt for non-porous tiles such as porcelain or sealed terrazzo to avoid moisture damage.
• Design for aesthetics and performance: Choose tiles that blend well with the style of your home without compromising durability. Matte finishes offer softness, while large-format tiles create a seamless, modern look.
• Use bold tiles for accents: To personalise walls or nooks, digital, printed, and designer tiles offer statement-making potential without overwhelming the space—ideal for backsplashes and feature panels.

Go through our blog How to Select the Best Tiles for Your Home to get more insights on how to choose the tiles for your home.

Let Your Tiles Tell the Story of Your Home

Tiles are more than just a finishing touch. They shape how your space looks, feels, and functions. With countless materials and designs available, understanding the different types of tiles and where they work best is essential to creating a home that’s both stylish and practical. The correct tile can transform any space, from a tiny kitchen to an expansive villa. 

At MyTyles, we make that decision easier with 8,000+ thoughtfully curated options delivered across India. Explore confidently, plan smartly, and transform your space with tiles that truly reflect your vision and lifestyle.

FAQs

Q. How many types of tiles are there in India?

Ans. There are more than a dozen types of tiles commonly used in Indian homes and commercial spaces. These include vitrified, ceramic, porcelain, mosaic, terracotta, glass, terrazzo, anti-skid, glazed, cool, digital, printed, and many more, each offering unique features and use cases.

Q. What are the best types of floor tiles for Indian homes?

Ans. Popular types of floor tiles include vitrified, porcelain, terrazzo, and anti-skid, depending on the space. Vitrified and porcelain are durable and ideal for living areas, while anti-skid are perfect for bathrooms and balconies.

Q. What types of kitchen tiles should I consider?

Ans. For kitchens, the best types are stain-resistant and easy to maintain. Use vitrified or porcelain for flooring, and opt for digital, glazed, or printed for backsplashes and walls to add a touch of style and convenience.

Q. What are the ideal types of wall tiles for home interiors?

Ans. The most commonly used types of wall tiles include ceramic, glazed, digital, and designer tiles. They are lightweight, decorative, and moisture-resistant, making them perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and accent walls.

Q. Are cool tiles good for rooftops and terraces?

Ans. Yes, cool tiles are designed to reflect heat and keep surface temperatures lower. They are highly recommended for terraces, balconies, and other outdoor areas, especially in cities with hot climates.

Q. Which tiles are best for bathrooms?

Ans. For bathroom floors, anti-skid offers safety in wet conditions. For walls, glazed, ceramic, or digital tiles provide a clean and elegant look while resisting moisture and stains.

Q. Can I use designer tiles for large spaces?

Ans. These tiles can be used in large areas, but they are best paired with simpler tiles to avoid visual clutter. Use them on feature walls, entryways, or backsplashes to highlight specific zones.

Q. Does MyTyles deliver tiles across India?

Ans. Yes! MyTyles offers pan-India doorstep tile delivery, allowing you to shop online for over 8,000+ tile options and receive them directly at your home or site with ease and confidence.

Q. Are there specific tiles for outdoor use?

Ans. Yes, outdoor areas require durable, slip-resistant tiles. Anti-skid, textured vitrified, and cool tiles are ideal for balconies, terraces, parking areas, and garden pathways due to their weather resistance and rough texture.

Q. What are digital tiles and where can I use them?

Ans. Digital tiles are printed using inkjet technology and can replicate designs like marble, wood, or artistic motifs. They’re perfect for kitchen backsplashes, bathroom walls, and living room accents.

Q. Why should I shop for tiles online at MyTyles?

Ans. MyTyles offers one of India’s largest curated tile collections online, complete with transparent pricing, visualisation tools, expert support, and doorstep delivery. You can explore all types of tiles from anywhere, without compromising on variety or quality.