Ceramic Floor Tiles

Choosing the right ceramic floor tiles for your project

Ceramic tiles have been used on floors for thousands of years, and for good reason. Today’s products combine advanced firing technology with on-trend designs, giving Australian homeowners, architects and builders a versatile material that suits nearly any brief. Whether you’re creating a coastal bathroom, a minimalist living zone or a high-traffic retail space, the key is understanding which tile will perform—and look—the best in situ.

Performance factors to consider

1. Location & traffic

Ceramic tiles are kiln-fired at lower temperatures than porcelain, creating a slightly more porous body. For light to medium-duty indoor areas—such as kitchens, hallways or bedrooms—they’re an excellent, cost-effective choice. Outdoor terraces or heavy commercial zones may benefit from porcelain, but many modern ceramic collections still carry robust wear ratings, so always check the manufacturer’s PEI grade.

2. Slip resistance

Safety matters, particularly in wet rooms. Look for tiles with a certified slip rating (R10, R11, etc.) to comply with the National Construction Code (NCC). Non-slip ceramic bathroom floor tiles feature textured glazes or micro-grip surfaces that minimise risk without sacrificing aesthetics.

3. Water & stain absorption

Glazed ceramics form an impervious shield against moisture and spills, but pale matt finishes can still show grime. Specify a suitable sealer if recommended and follow the supplier’s cleaning guidance—often a pH-neutral solution is all that’s needed.

Design considerations

Colour & finish

• Gloss – Reflects light beautifully, ideal for smaller, darker rooms.
• Matt – Low sheen, hides footprints and delivers a contemporary feel.
• Textured – Adds visual depth and improves slip resistance outdoors.

Size & pattern

Large-format planks (600×1200 mm and above) create seamless modern floors, while classic 200×200 mm squares or ceramic mosaic tile flooring give heritage charm. Laying patterns—herringbone, stacked, brick-bond—can dramatically alter the perception of space.

Grout selection

Match grout colour to the tile for a continuous look, or contrast for definition. Fine 1–2 mm joints suit rectified edges; pressed edges typically require 3 mm or more.

Installation & maintenance tips

Professional waterproofing and substrate preparation are vital for a crack-free, level result. Use a quality modified adhesive rated for ceramic tiles, back-butter larger pieces and allow full cure before traffic. For ongoing care, sweep regularly and mop with warm water plus a few drops of mild detergent; harsh acids can etch glazed surfaces.

Cost guide

Ceramic floor tiles generally range from $30 to $120 m² in Australia. Factors influencing price include size, brand, design complexity and any specialist performance coatings (e.g. antimicrobial or extra-grip glazes). Remember to budget for delivery, adhesives, grout and labour—installation can add $45–$75 m² depending on job complexity.

Related tile options on ArchiPro

Exploring alternative materials can spark ideas and ensure you specify the perfect finish for every surface.

• Wall tiles – coordinate feature walls with matching or contrasting designs.
• Mosaic tiles – ideal for curved surfaces, niches and decorative borders.
• Ceiling tiles – solve acoustic or services-concealment challenges in commercial spaces.
• Decorative tiles – patterned, hand-painted or 3D pieces for bold statements.
• Tactile indicators – meet accessibility codes for public projects.

For an even broader material search, head back to our main tiles category to compare porcelain, natural stone and engineered alternatives.

Next steps

Ready to transform your floors? Use the filters above to refine by colour, size, finish or supplier location. You can order samples, request pricing or connect directly with Australia’s leading ceramic tile brands—right here on ArchiPro.