Tile isn’t just for floors anymore! You’ll learn about the differences between floor and wall tile and enjoy plenty of wall tile inspiration in this blog post.
Wall Tile Vs. Floor Tile: What’s The Difference?
Coefficient of Friction
In general, floor tile has a minimum COF of 0.42 (usually written as DCOF >=0.42 in product descriptions). Tiles with lower COFs should only be used for wall applications.
PEI Rating
The higher the PEI rating, the harder and more durable a tile is. Tiles that are only meant for wall applications usually have PEI ratings of zero or one. Meanwhile, a PEI rating of two indicates a tile can be used on floors, but only in low-traffic areas.
If you’re looking for floor tile, it’s best to search for options with a PEI rating of three or higher, with five being the highest rating. Tile with a PEI 5 rating is durable enough for commercial and industrial applications.
Size
Floor tile is normally larger than wall tile, although there can be exceptions. For the most part, you’ll only see tiny tiles on walls and large-format tiles on floors.
Cost
Wall tile and floor tile fall into a similar price range.
Texture
Wall tile can be extremely smooth and slippery (think glass tile). Meanwhile, floor tile has more texture and friction. However, tile with dramatic 3D texture is often meant for walls as it’s not suitable to walk on.
Ease of Installation
Since wall tile is usually lighter and thinner, it’s often easier to cut and install.
Recommended Uses
Floor tile can be used on floors (of course), as well as countertops and walls. Meanwhile, wall tile is only suitable for use on walls. If used on floors, it’s likely to be very slippery and prone to cracking under foot traffic.
Our Favorite Wall Tile Selections
Find a few of our favorites below!
Boise Whisper Pink 3x12 Ceramic Tile
This Boise tile in the shade Whisper Pink has a soft satin finish and is only suitable for use on walls.
Boise Jet Black 3x12 Ceramic Tile
While the Boise Jet Black tile is the star of this accent wall, the Blanc de Blanc and Silver Gray shades add the perfect amount of contrast.
Chanelle Sapphire Blue 3x12 Ceramic Tile
This gorgeous Sapphire Blue subway tile, paired with our Eiffel Oval tile in Navy/Blue, creates a serene and visually appealing accent wall in this bathroom.
Eiffel Oval Gray/Taupe 8x8 Porcelain Tile
For a detailed yet understated look, we love this Eiffel Oval tile in Gray/Taupe. The Eiffel tile collection is suitable for wall and floor applications.
Madrid Black 8x9 Hexagon Matte Porcelain Tile
Geometric tile always adds plenty of impact, especially in this room, where its abstract pattern extends onto the floor for a striking effect that demands a double take.
Madrid White 8x9 Hexagon Matte Porcelain Tile
Try a lighter variation of the previous wall tile with our Madrid White and Gray hexagon tile. All of our Madrid hexagon tiles can be used on walls and floors.
MSI Soho Stax Glass & Stone Mosaic Tile
Go retro with our MSI Soho Stax mosaic tile!
York Brown Rice 3x6 Glass Tile
This crystalline glass tile is easy to care for, and it’s water- and mildew-resistant, making it an excellent choice for bathrooms and backsplashes.
York Foam 3x6 Glass Tile
This York Foam glass tile, which naturally catches and reflects light, looks especially beautiful thanks to the strategic lighting behind the mirror in this bathroom.
York Lucent White Bamboo Glass Mosaic
Shop for Wall Tile at Tilezz.com!
At Tilezz.com, we have a huge selection of floor and wall tile to choose from. Plus, we make it easier than ever to shop for tile online, thanks to our fast delivery, insured shipments, and easy returns. Take a look at our full product range here, and visit our blog for plenty of inspiration and lots of DIY installation tips.