Skip to content
MMK Remodel logo MMK Remodel
Bathroom Tile Selection: Balancing Style and Durability
Bathroom 5 min read January 29, 2026

Bathroom Tile Selection: Balancing Style and Durability

Choose bathroom tile that handles moisture and daily wear. Learn slip ratings, grout options, and style choices that stay durable in busy households.


Tile Basics for Bathrooms

Bathrooms demand tiles that handle moisture, resist stains, and provide safe footing. Here's what to consider.

Tile Types Compared

#

Ceramic Tile
- Cost: $1-15 per sq ft
- Durability: Good for walls, moderate for floors
- Best for: Walls, backsplashes, low-traffic floors
- Note: Can chip if heavy objects drop

#

Porcelain Tile
- Cost: $3-30 per sq ft
- Durability: Excellent water and wear resistance
- Best for: Floors, shower walls, high-moisture areas
- Note: Harder to cut, requires experienced installer

Serene modern bathroom

Natural light enhances bathroom spaces

Quality craftsmanship and attention to detail make the difference in every remodeling project. We bring years of experience to Central Kentucky homes and businesses.

#

Natural Stone
- Cost: $5-50+ per sq ft
- Durability: Varies by stone type
- Best for: Feature walls, upscale bathrooms
- Note: Requires sealing, more maintenance

#

Glass Tile
- Cost: $7-30 per sq ft
- Durability: Good for walls, not floors
- Best for: Accent bands, niches, backsplashes
- Note: Shows water spots, needs regular cleaning

Floor Tile Considerations

#

Safety First
- Choose textured or matte finishes for slip resistance
- Look for COF (coefficient of friction) rating >= 0.42
- Smaller tiles with more grout lines = more traction

#

Size Matters
- Large format tiles (12"+ ) = fewer grout lines, modern look
- Small tiles (2-4") = better for shower floors, more grout maintenance
- Medium tiles (6-8") = versatile, traditional appeal

Modern bathroom with oak vanity
Bright vanity-focused bathroom design

Shower Wall Recommendations

For Central Kentucky bathrooms:
- Budget: Large format ceramic ($8-15 per sq ft installed)
- Mid-range: Porcelain subway tile ($12-20 per sq ft installed)
- Premium: Natural stone or designer porcelain ($25-50+ per sq ft installed)

Grout Selection

Often overlooked but critical:
- Unsanded: For joints under 1/8"
- Sanded: For wider joints, more durable
- Epoxy: Most durable, stain-proof, higher cost

Schedule a tile consultation - we'll help you balance style, durability, and budget.

Serene bathroom view

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you're planning a full remodel or need handyman repairs, we're here to help. Our team serves Nicholasville, Lexington, and throughout Central Kentucky.

Get Your Expert Remodeling Quote

Plan your next step

We're here to help with bathroom plus remodeling, renovations, and handyman support for residential and light commercial properties across Nicholasville, Lexington, and Central Kentucky.

Modern living room

Ready to start your project?

Share your scope and we'll help you plan the best approach.