A Guide to Tile Finishes – Find One Perfect for Your Next Project

Before starting a remodeling project, it’s important to consider the best type of tile finish for your space. For over 25,000 years, some form of tile has existed to improve the look and functionality of a space. Tile technologies have advanced significantly over the centuries to include different designs and finishes.

Tile finishes come with various attributes that influence the appearance and durability of the tile, from the amount of shine to the surface texture. With so many choices, it can seem overwhelming to decide on the right tile finish. We are here to help. With this guide to tile finishes, you can easily find the perfect option for your project.


Polished Finish

Polished tiles are shiny and have a mirror-like surface that reflects light. This tile type is trendy because it adds a touch of luxury to your space by making it look bright and modern. It’s also easy to clean, making it great for kitchen backsplashes and bathroom walls. Since the high-gloss tiles can be slippery when wet, it’s not as good for flooring, especially in high-traffic areas.

Honed Finish

Tiles with a honed finish provide a matte surface that’s smooth and satin-like, reflecting less light. It gives a softer look to a space, allowing a casual yet elegant look. The surface is durable against scratches and is suitable for areas that can get wet. It’s also a practical option if you’re looking for a marble-like appearance.

Textured Finish

A textured finish provides an uneven surface that gives a three-dimensional effect to look like natural stone or wood. For example, you can have porcelain tiles with a textured finish that look like tumbled stones. This finish creates a rustic charm and is optimal for outdoor spaces, fireplaces, and backsplashes. It is also more slip resistance and great for wet areas.


Brushed Finish

Brushed finishes create a type of matte tile with a non-shiny glaze. The appearance is natural-looking with a soft, worn texture or rustic feel. It is also durable against marks and scratches, making it ideal for flooring in high traffic areas, such as entranceways.

Anti-Slip Finish

Created by applying a fine grit to a matte glaze, anti-slip finishes are designed for wet surface conditions. This finish provides a rough, gripping surface texture. It’s ideal for bathroom floors, showers, entryways, mudrooms, and pool surroundings.

Metallic Finish

Metallic finishes are durable and easy to maintain. It creates a bold and reflective look that is great as contrasting accents in bathrooms and kitchens. You can use this finish to add a modern feel to your space without using actual metal tiles.


Let Us Help You Find the Right Tile Finishes

Every tile finish comes with different advantages and disadvantages, depending on the placement location and lighting or atmosphere you want in your space. At the end of the day, what’s most important is your personal preference. To see the effects of tile finishes in a space, visit the Atlas Marble & Tile showroom in Arnold, Maryland. We have the largest tile collection in the Maryland area and provide custom design options.

If you have additional questions on tile finishes, please contact our friendly professionals at Atlas Marble & Tile. We can help you decide what tile finishes are perfect for your remodeling goals.


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