However, as progress would have it, the process has become automated and mass production has made handcrafted tiles too costly and overly time consuming.

There are three kinds of tiles, ceramic, porcelain and glass tiles. If you are making the decision for the first time as to what to choose, it can all be very confusing. Here are a few things to keep in mind while shopping.

Today, mosaic are the most popular to be chosen for use in kitchens and bathrooms, the Spanish and Portuguese were the first to use them. Not only are they durable, but elegant as well.

Unfortunately, ceramic tile has become a generic term. If a tile is genuinely ceramic, it is only clay that has been mixed with water and minerals and then fired and pressed until it has become a porous material. Glazed is then used to seal the tile.

If you are looking at porcelain tile, it will be made out of very finely ground sand. Then, when pressed and heated, it will be finished with the look of ceramic, with out the added step of glazing.

With thousands of designs and patterns to choose from, there will be something for everyone. The patterns are applied before the glaze with ceramic tiles.

After you have decided what material you want, you need to figure what size of tile you want. When it comes to installing the tile, the size of the tile with respect to the room is going to be very important. In large rooms, you can use larger 12"x 12" tiles, in smaller space, such as a bathroom a 6"x6" is going to be more pleasing to the eye and make a small room look bigger.

When installing ceramic tile for the first time, make sure you do your homework. It is advisable to seek out a professional installer or at last someone who has done a few jobs.

Remember, the idea behind putting in new floors is to increase the appeal of your home. You don't want to get half way through the job and then realize it doesn't look right.

You can find how-to books at any bookstore, home improvement store or library to help you in your decision-making.

Adding ceramic tile to your home will also add charm and elegance. And there will undoubtedly be a style and size to fit your taste and budget.

Summary:

Ceramic tile comes in a variety of styles, colors and sizes. With a little bit of education, adding ceramic tile will give years of enjoyment.