The Best Tiles for Wet Areas: Kitchens and Bathrooms
When it comes to designing or renovating your kitchen or bathroom, choosing the right tile isn’t just about looks—it’s about durability, safety, and long-term value. At Handyman Service St. John's, we’ve installed hundreds of tiles in homes across St. John’s, Newfoundland, and we know what works best in wet areas.
If you’re unsure where to start, here’s our guide to the best tiles for kitchens and bathrooms that combine performance and style.
1. Porcelain Tile: Durable and Water-Resistant
Porcelain is a go-to choice for wet areas because of its low water absorption rate, strength, and resistance to stains and scratches. It's denser than ceramic, making it ideal for high-moisture environments like bathrooms and kitchen floors.
Why it’s great:
- Highly water-resistant
- Comes in various finishes and styles
- Great for both floors and walls
Best use: Shower walls, bathroom floors, kitchen flooring, and backsplashes.
2. Ceramic Tile: Budget-Friendly and Stylish
Ceramic tile is slightly more porous than porcelain but still offers solid performance in moisture-prone areas. It’s also more affordable and available in an incredible range of colors and patterns.
Why it’s great:
- Easy to clean
- Wide variety of designs
- Good water resistance with proper sealing
Best use: Kitchen backsplashes, bathroom walls, and low-traffic bathroom floors.
3. Natural Stone Tile: Elegant but Needs Maintenance
For a luxurious look, natural stone tiles like marble, slate, or travertine can be beautiful choices. However, they do require sealing and regular maintenance to remain resistant to moisture and staining.
Why it’s great:
- Unique, natural appearance
- Adds resale value to your home
- Variety of textures for slip resistance
Best use: Bathroom accent walls, floors with proper sealing, and decorative areas in kitchens.
4. Glass Tile: Perfect for Backsplashes
Glass tiles reflect light beautifully and resist moisture, making them a stylish and practical choice for walls, particularly kitchen backsplashes and bathroom accents.
Why it’s great:
- Non-porous and waterproof
- Easy to clean
- Available in countless colors and finishes
Best use: Accent walls, shower niches, and backsplashes.
5. Vinyl Tile: A Modern Alternative
While not a traditional tile, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) has become popular for bathrooms and kitchens. It's waterproof, affordable, and mimics the look of wood or stone without the cold touch or high cost.
Why it’s great:
- 100% waterproof varieties available
- Warm underfoot
- Fast and easy installation
Best use: Bathroom and kitchen floors in high-traffic areas.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget About Grout and Slip Resistance
Even the best tile can fall short without the right grout and anti-slip features. We recommend epoxy grout for wet areas, as it resists water and stains better than traditional cement grout. And always consider textured or matte finishes to prevent slips in wet environments.
Let the Pros Handle It
Installing tile in wet areas takes skill—especially to prevent leaks, uneven layouts, or poor sealing. At Handyman Service St. John's, our local team provides professional tile installation services in St. John’s and surrounding areas, ensuring a flawless finish that lasts for years.
Ready to upgrade your bathroom or kitchen with the perfect tile?
Contact us today for a free consultation and expert installation.





