Tile finishes come in various types, each offering unique visual and practical advantages. Whether you're remodeling a home or upgrading a rental unit, understanding these options is essential for smart, stylish kitchen flooring.
Glossy Tile Finishes
Glossy tile finishes are known for their polished, light-reflecting surfaces. They work beautifully in small kitchens, making the space feel larger and brighter.
However, glossy kitchen tile can become slippery when wet, making it better suited for backsplashes or low-traffic areas of the kitchen rather than near sinks or stoves. These tiles are also prone to showing smudges, so they require frequent cleaning to maintain their gleam.
Matte Tile Finishes
Matte tiles offer a softer, more understated look and are quickly gaining popularity across Spokane and surrounding areas. Their textured surface provides better traction, making them ideal for busy kitchens where spills are likely.
If you're installing tile in a family home or rental unit, matte finishes offer a brilliant mix of safety and sophistication. Plus, they’re easier to keep looking clean and more effectively hide smudges and footprints than glossy tiles.
Textured and Natural Stone Look Tiles
Textured tiles are excellent for rustic, farmhouse, or industrial kitchen designs. They resemble natural materials like slate or travertine, bringing a grounded, earthy vibe to modern kitchens.
These kitchen tile options work particularly well in open-concept spaces where the kitchen flows into the living or dining area. They can create eye-catching visual continuity when paired with complementary tile patterns, like staggered brick or herringbone.
Choosing Tile Patterns That Enhance Design
Tile patterns are just as important as the finish. Creative layouts can elevate even simple tiles into something memorable. Popular kitchen tile patterns in Spokane include:
- Subway brick pattern: Clean and timeless
- Herringbone: Adds motion and elegance
- Hexagonal or geometric: Great for modern spaces
- Large-format offset: Expands the feel of the room
Professional tile flooring installation ensures these patterns are executed precisely, especially in kitchens with uneven surfaces or tight corners.
Tips for Installing Tile in Kitchens
Preparation is everything when installing tile in the kitchen. Subfloor leveling, moisture barrier application, and grout selection all play crucial roles in the performance of your tile.
For busy kitchens in Spokane and Idaho’s fast-growing cities, experienced professionals should always install tile flooring. At PG Long, we handle the process from start to finish, ensuring your kitchen tile is beautiful and long-lasting.
Design a Better Kitchen with PG Long
From Spokane to Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls to Rathdrum, PG Long provides expert tile flooring installation and a full selection of kitchen tile finishes. Whether installing tile in a new build or remodeling an older home, our team is ready to help you choose the perfect combination of finish, material, and tile patterns. Visit our Spokane showroom or contact us today to start your kitchen upgrade.

