If you’re remaking your bathroom and trying to pick a tile that’s stylish, durable, and safe, porcelain should be at the top of your shortlist.
We’ll walk through what makes porcelain tile great for bathrooms, how to choose the right style for walls and floors, and why slip resistance matters with a tile store in Franklin.
Why Porcelain Tile Is Amazing for Bathrooms
Porcelain is strong, sleek, and way more water-friendly than lots of alternatives.
- Low water absorption: Porcelain tiles absorb less than 0.5% water, which makes them ideal for damp areas like showers and bathroom floors.
- Durable: It stands up to heavy foot traffic and lasts for decades if installed right.
- Versatile design: From glossy marble looks to matte wood-grain vibes, porcelain lets you express your style without sacrificing performance.
- Easy to clean: Non-porous surface means less stained grout and easier maintenance.
Different finishes and tile formats play a huge role in how the tile performs in wet spaces.
Porcelain Tile for Shower Walls
Shower walls are where a lot of your design personality gets to shine. Think color, pattern, and texture.
Best Features for Shower Walls
Porcelain wall tiles don’t need insane slip resistance, so you’ve got more freedom with finishes. Polished looks are popular for walls and can create a luxe feel.
Common wall tile choices include:
- Large-format tiles (e.g., 12×24, 24×48): Cleaner lines, fewer grout lines, and a modern vibe.
- Glossy or polished porcelain: Super chic and reflective, but skip these for floors unless they’re rated for slip safety.
- Textured or matte porcelain: Adds dimension and helps mask water spots and soap residue.
If you’re heading to a tile store in Franklin, Hendersonville, or Nashville, bring pictures of your whole bathroom. That way, you can see how different wall tile options pair with floor and trim tiles before buying.
Porcelain Tile for Bathroom Floors: Grip and Grit
Bathroom floors see water everywhere. That means slip resistance should be a real priority.
Slip Resistance Explained
Tile slip resistance is rated with things like the DCOF (Dynamic Coefficient of Friction) standard, which basically tells you how grippy a surface is when it’s wet — not just dry. Experts generally recommend a DCOF rating of 0.42 or higher for interior wet areas like bathroom floors.
Here’s how to choose smart:
- Matte or honed finishes: Less glossy = more traction when wet.
- Textured surfaces: Tiny grooves or rougher surfaces help feet (and bath mats) grip.
- Small-format tiles in shower floors: Smaller tiles with more grout lines add grip — think mosaic or 4×4 styles.
- PEI ratings for durability: For bathroom floors, tile with a PEI rating of 3 or above is a solid bet (that’s the wear rating for floors).
Wall vs Floor Tile
A lot of people assume a tile that looks great is good everywhere, but that’s not always true.
- Wall tiles: Often thinner and more decorative. Great for splashy shower walls or accent strips.
- Floor tiles: Thicker, tougher, and slip-rated. Not all wall tiles are safe on floors, especially when wet.
That means even if you love a glossy porcelain pattern from a showroom wall display, make sure there’s a floor-compatible version if you plan to use it underfoot.
Color, Pattern, and Layout Ideas
- Neutral tones like gray, beige, or white: Timeless and bright, especially in smaller bathrooms.
- Large tiles for small rooms: Larger formats (like 24×48) make the space feel bigger and less cluttered.
- Moody or contrasting grout: Adds character and hides dirt in high-traffic spots.
- Mix finishes: Gloss on walls, matte on floors.
Installation and Maintenance
Even the best tile can throw shade on your remodel if it’s installed poorly. Here’s what to think about:
- Seal grout properly: Most porcelain tiles don’t need sealing, but grout does.
- Waterproofing comes first: Porcelain resists water, but the membrane behind your shower is what really keeps leaks away.
- Regular cleaning: Simple sweeping + mild cleaner keeps mold and buildup from cramping your style.
Your tile installer can guide you on best practices and whether you want epoxy grout for longevity.
L&L Flooring and Design: Tile Store in Franklin
L&L Flooring is a full-service flooring and tile provider serving Nashville, Franklin, Hendersonville, and the surrounding areas. We stock premium porcelain tile options, help you visualize your whole bathroom, and can walk you through installation services and consultations.
Ready to transform your bathroom? Visit us at L&L Flooring and Design to browse tile options in person, get expert recommendations, and start your project with confidence.