Ceramic floor and wall tiles are produced by firing non-metallic minerals at high temperatures. The term ceramic covers many types of tiles with different properties and applications.

Porcelain tiles are produced using a vitreous ceramic material made from kaolin (china clay). They are typically dense and strong.

Terracotta tiles, often associated with Mediterranean interiors, are traditionally made from unglazed earthenware with a deep, red-brown colour. Quarry tiles are also made from unglazed clay extruded under high pressure.

If a tile is glazed, it should be impervious to water penetration. Unglazed tiles may also be used in wet areas and outdoors, depending on their water absorption percentage.

Water absorption (expressed as the mass of water absorbed by a porous ceramic material under specified conditions) is used as a common quality control test for ceramic tiles.

Some porcelain tiles have finishes that replicate the look and texture of natural stone tiles.