Higher numbers provide better resistance to slipping.
A COF of .50 (dry) is recommended for flooring.
A good quality epoxy-reinforced grout is a good choice for flooring installations.
The Spruce / Jacob Fox
Porcelain tiles are a good choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and showers, where water resistance is critical.
Still, many DIYers can and do install porcelain tile floors themselves.
Terra Cotta Tile
The termterra cottais an Italian term meaning “baked earth.”
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These are tiles made from porous clay with a high iron content that gives them a brown-to-reddish color.
They are also used for sunrooms, patios, and in outdoor parameters, especially in arid climates.
Because they are naturally porous, terra cotta tiles are prone to staining unless they are regularly sealed.
The Spruce / Margot Cavin
Terra cotta tiles are installed using the same methods as ceramic and porcelain tiles.
Cutting is usually done with a motorized wet saw.
DIY installation is entirely feasible for a do-it-yourself with moderate skills and some previous tile experience.
The Spruce / Jacob Fox
Thanks to the simpler manufacturing process, terra cotta is a relatively inexpensive form of tile.
DIY installation is feasible, though most people will want to rent a wet saw to do the cutting.
Quarry Tile
Quarry tile can best be thought of as a more engineered version of terra cotta.
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With a COF of .8 and greater,quarry tileprovides excellent slip resistance.
While many quarry tiles are brick-red in color, there are also tan and gray versions available.
Terra cotta tiles are installed much like other forms of clay-based tile.
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Unlike terra cotta, quarry tile generally does not require sealingthough adding a seal coat does not harm them.
Basic red square tiles start at about $3 per square foot.
Natural stone tile will make a somewhat high-maintenance floor.
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Natural stone tiles are cut products with rectified (sharply sawn) edges.
This can make them uncomfortable underfoot, especially to bare feet.
These are fairly expensive flooring tiles.
The Spruce / Jacob Fox
Moreover, natural stone tiles are not a very DIY-friendly product, and professional installation is almost always required.
This will add another $3 to $7 per square foot.
Look for a COF rating of .60 or greater, which will make these tiles safe underfoot.
The Spruce / Jacob Fox
Cement pavers are quite hard to cut, and are thus normally installed by professionals.
They are not fired under heat.
These are generally highly decorative tiles with notable patterns, with excellent durability and water/stain resistance.
These are very hard tiles that hold up well in high-traffic areas, such as entryways and hallways.
