Tiles are often used to form wall and floor coverings, and can range from simple square tiles to complex mosaics. Figuring out a perfect tile from a wide range is a tough decision and for this one must be capable of distinguishing among honed, tumbled, polished, and natural cleft.

Honed tiles
Honed tile lacks the shininess and reflective qualities that polished tile has. Instead, it has a more satin-feel, smooth and velvety to the touch. Honed finish is very scratch resistant because it lacks the glossy surface of polished tiles. Honed marble soaks up liquids spilled during cooking faster and easier. Since honed is resistant to scratching and less slippery when wet, it is popularly used in high-traffic areas, including floors for the bathroom, living room, foyer, and even kitchen counters.

Polished tiles
A polished finish gives the smooth surface a shiny, much glossier look. The polish as a type of protection, therefore allowing it to withstand stains better. However, the reflective characteristic of the finish makes it more prone to scratches. Though it is a popular option for bathroom countertops, powder bathrooms, fireplaces, and walls, but it is advised against using it on your bathroom floor, as it gets very slippery when wet and can be hazardous.

Natural cleft tiles
Unique to the slates, the natural cleft finish has an uneven surface, but is still usable for flooring. A natural cleft finish is a natural finish that comes from the layers of slate when quarried. However, the backside can be gauged to facilitate ease of thin-set install.

Tumbled tiles
Tumbled tiles look very different than tiles that have been honed or polished. Their surface is often slightly chalky or dusty-looking, and their color is muted. Tumbling does not in any way affect how the stones are treated; it does not remove any protective finish from the surface of the stone, however, it can mean that tiles are duller in appearance. To correct this, apply a color-enhancing topical sealer to the tiles after they have been installed and grouted. The sealer will brighten the color and remove the dusty finish from the tiles.

Every single difference in the tile can bring about a difference in home furnishing. Hence choose wisely.