Homeowner’s Guide to Tile & Stone Finishes

Honed & Matte Finish

This style has a velvety smooth surface. Its natural, muted look is nonreflective, unlike traditional polished tile and stone. A honed and matte finish is more slip-resistant, making it a quality choice for wet areas like the bathroom. It also disguises everyday wear because dullness and scratches overtime are less apparent. However, [matte tile](https://www.flooranddecor.com/tile?prefn1=finish&prefv1=Matte) and [honed stone](https://www.flooranddecor.com/textured-stone) is more porous so spills should be treated immediately and proper sealant should be applied regularly.

Polished Finish

Polish brings out the brilliance of a [stone](https://www.flooranddecor.com/stone?prefn1=finish&prefv1=Polished%20or%20High%20Gloss) and [tile](https://www.flooranddecor.com/tile?prefn1=finish&prefv1=Polished%20or%20High%20Gloss)’s color and detail. The smooth, shiny finish looks elegant on both floors and walls. However, polished tile and stone can be slippery so step cautiously on bathroom floors and outdoor areas.

Brushed Finish

[Brushed](https://www.flooranddecor.com/stone?prefn1=finish&prefv1=Brushed) finished surfaces have a soft, distressed texture. The aging and resilience to scratches and weather allows it to maintain a natural feel. While specialized brushes and techniques are used to craft this unique finish, it doesn’t take away from the authentic look. This finish is ideal for high traffic areas and outdoor spaces.

Textured Finish

Much like a brushed finish, [textured tile](https://www.flooranddecor.com/tile?prefn1=finish&prefv1=Textured) and [stone](https://www.flooranddecor.com/stone?prefn1=finish&prefv1=Textured) are great for backsplashes, fireplaces, and outdoor spaces. The surface texture adds more grit for slip resistance in wet areas. The dimension adds a natural and tactile feel to your home and has no-fuss maintenance that only enhances with age.

Tumbled Finish

This authentic look is achieved by physically tumbling the stones within an enclosure. This creates unique edges and impressions. [Tumbled stone and mosaics](https://www.flooranddecor.com/stone?prefn1=finish&prefv1=Tumbled) have a soft, smooth, and aged look to them.

View as Gallery

Next up in Ideas

5 Easy Ways to Remodel Your Bathroom on a Budget

Bathroom remodels don't need to be expensive or time-consuming. Check out these five easy ways to remodel your bathroom on a budget.

Wood-look Tile Floors for Every Room of the Home

Get the look of real hardwood with wood-look tile. Install wood-look tile in every room of your home for a functional and enviable style. Check out how these stylish homes incorporate wood-look tile into their designs.

5 Ways to Use Stone Ledger & Brick

Take your next home project to the next level by using a stacked stone ledger and brick throughout your design. Check out how to use this unique material inside.

Tile 101: Defining Types of Tile & Materials

Don't get overwhelmed trying to figure out the difference between tile types. Check out our tile definition guide to break down the difference between each type of tile.

Sheila, owner of Olivia Hail Designs, posing with newly remodeled bathroom.

Real People, Real Projects: Olivia Hail Designs' Dramatic Blue Bathroom

See how Sheila of Olivia Hail Designs transformed an outdated bathroom into a modern blue showstopper of style with Floor & Decor.

Ron posing against black bathtub in primary bathroom with white marble.

Real People, Real Projects: Ron Jones’ Designer Home

There’s no shortage of inspiration and bespoke style in this standout home by Ron Jones of R Jones Designs. Explore this Atlantan transformation with the help of Floor & Decor’s Design Studio.