Granite Tiles

• Granite is a frequently used material for countertops when purchased in a slab. Granite tiles offer the same durability and color as a granite slab top, with less expense. Granite tiles have the same maintenance needs as a granite slab; they will need to be sealed with an impregnating sealer and washed with a stone cleaner.
  
  

Marble Tiles

• Marble is a frequently used countertop in bathroom designs. Marble is too soft to work well in kitchens, since it can stain and scratch easily. Marble tiles are perfect for use in a bathroom countertop setting, but should be avoided in a kitchen.
  
  Care for marble tiles in the bathroom like any natural stone--seal them on a regular basis and clean them with a stone cleanser.
  
  

Porcelain Tiles

• Porcelain is an extremely durable material with a low water absorption rate. While porcelain is most frequently used on floors, porcelain tiles can also make a great countertop. Porcelain will not stain, scratch or burn and is suitable for a kitchen or bathroom countertop installation.
  
  

Ceramic Tiles

• Ceramic tiles are also suitable for countertop applications. Ceramic tile is a clay body material covered in a thin glaze. Matte finish glazes will wear the best on a counter, as scratches will show up less than on a glossy finish. Many glossy finish ceramic tiles will also hold up well on a countertop, since heat will not harm the tiles and most foods will not stain or etch them.
  
  

Ceramic Tiles to Avoid

• There are two types of ceramic tiles to avoid in countertop use. Crackled, or crazed, tiles, which have cracks going through the glaze, are not suitable for counters. These cracks can absorb water or food particles, making it difficult to care for the tiles.
  
  Some ceramic tiles with a green glaze are also not suitable for counters. The copper in the glaze, which gives the tiles their green color, can react poorly when it comes in contact with acids, such as lemon juice or tomato sauce. This can discolor your tiles quickly, so check with the manufacturer of green glazed tiles to see if they are appropriate for counter use.