There are many types of tile available now from the designer mosaic style tiling to the block un-glazed paving tiles. The cost and quality of the tiles depends entirely on the producer of the tile and the materials they use to make them. This is why the cost of tiling can vary so drastically because some of the materials used such as marble can be expensive where as they can also use clay which is very inexpensive.
Some of the various types of tiling include the following;
Decorative Glazed Tiles
These tiles are heated in the kiln to such high temperatures that they gain a high gloss finish as a pose to the un-glazed such as terracotta. It is the high shine gloss finish that makes the tiles so widely used on decorative pieces and this doen't just mean floor and wall pieces they are also widely used on pieces such as mirrors and picture frames. It usually depends on the size of the piece as to what size tiles are used although for the more decorative designs they will still use small tiles even if the piece is large so they can have a more intricate design.
Purpose Glazed Tiles
These are glazed tiles that are used for a particular purpose rather then for decoration, they are commonly used in places such as showers and toilets. Although these tiles have a different use to the decorative type they are produced in the same way so they have the glazed finish, this means they are less likely to absorb liquids and dirt and they are also water proof if fitted correctly. It is important these are fitted properly because if not they can then leak and cause problems with damp in the wall.
Purpose Un-Glazed Tiles
These type of tiles tend to be fairly natural in colour they may have a slight pigment added when being mixed. When being used as flooring they are mainly used in industrial settings such laundry buildings this is because they have an anti slip property when wet because of them not having the gloss finish. These tiles are often used on properties abroad especially when coloured to the terracotta, this is because it is readily available and is durable if maintained correctly. Although as well as the floor tiles there are also some companies that make decorative tiles out of materials such as terracotta for the fronts of houses etc.
With there being so many different types of tile it is important for you to choose the right one for the purpose you intend to use it. For example if you wanted tiling for your shower area it wouldn't be suitable to use un-glazed as it would absorb all the splash back water and therefore become damaged. If you are unsure you can speak to a local tile store and they qould be able to let you know the type that would be suitable for you.