What is the difference between wall tile and floor tile?

Floor tile is designed to withstand foot traffic, weight and everyday wear, while wall tile may be lighter and less slip resistant. Many floor tiles can be used on walls, but not every wall tile is approved for floors.

Is porcelain or ceramic tile better for my project?

Porcelain is denser and generally more resistant to moisture and heavy wear, making it a strong option for floors and wet areas. Ceramic tile is versatile, easy to work with and commonly used for walls, backsplashes and lighter-duty spaces.

What type of tile is best for a shower?

Porcelain and ceramic tile are both popular for shower walls, while shower floors require smaller, slip-resistant tile that can follow the slope toward the drain. Proper waterproofing behind the tile is just as important as the tile itself.

How much extra tile should I order?

Most projects require additional tile for cuts, breakage, pattern matching and future repairs. The recommended overage often ranges from 10% to 20%, depending on the layout, tile shape and installation pattern.

Can tile be installed over an existing floor or wall?

Sometimes, but the existing surface must be stable, flat, clean and properly prepared. Loose tile, moisture damage or uneven substrates should be corrected before new tile is installed.

How do I choose the right grout color?

A matching grout color creates a more seamless look, while a contrasting color highlights the shape and pattern of the tile. Consider maintenance, joint width and the overall design before making your selection.

Can Northwest Tile Supply help with installation materials?

Yes. We carry setting materials, grout, waterproofing products, tools and accessories for professional contractors and DIY tile projects. Our team can help you identify compatible products for your specific application.

Wall & Floor Tile

ROOTED IN CENTRAL OREGON SINCE 1995

Northwest Tile Supply has served Central Oregon homeowners, contractors and designers for more than 30 years. As a locally owned Bend business, we understand the homes, styles and practical needs of the people who live and work here. Our long-standing relationships and product knowledge have made us a trusted local resource for tile, flooring, quartz, natural stone and installation materials.

Guidance and Supplies Under One Roof

Our knowledgeable team will help you sort through style, performance and installation considerations without pressure or unnecessary complication. We also keep many essential setting materials in stock, including grout, thinset, underlayment and waterproofing products, so you can find both the tile you love and the supplies needed to keep your project moving.

Connect with us

Porcelain & Ceramic Tile

Discover durable, versatile porcelain and ceramic tile in styles that can bring beauty and personality to nearly every room.

Glass & Mosaic Tile

Add color, shimmer, texture and intricate detail with glass and mosaic tile designed to make small surfaces feel unforgettable.

Classic Subway Tile

Give kitchens, bathrooms and feature walls a timeless foundation with subway tile that can feel classic, colorful or completely unexpected.

Large-Format Tile

Create a clean, expansive look with large-format tile that brings dramatic scale and fewer grout lines to walls and floors.

Trusted Tile Brands

Choose from trusted tile brands known for distinctive style, dependable quality and options for nearly every room and budget.

Tile Setting Materials

Build a stronger, longer-lasting tile installation with professional setting materials chosen for your surface, tile and application.

Testimonials

This place and the people who run it are amazing. I am a DIY-er and they really know their stuff and are very patient helping you determine what you need. Also, they have the most mellow and amazing shop dog you will ever meet.

John B.

Berkeley, CA

Service-service-service! Wow... absolutely lovely people to work with. Not pushy, they do their best to answer all of your questions and to offer suggestions that aren't above your skill level.

A. B.

Bend, OR

Found them by accident across the street from Home Depot (next to a great granite store). Expansive supply of tile that is lees expensive then the big box store price. Staff helped us through the entire process.

Alex D.

Napa, CA

There’s not another place that has more knowledge and insight when I it comes to anything and everything tile. Some of the best customer service as well. Products always in stock. Absolutely love this place and everyone there!!!

Jonathan L.

Bend, OR

Extremely polite and helpful, especially with install questions, which that alone makes it worth shopping here. They also have a lot of schluter products in stock with competitive flooring pricing.

Zac G.

Bend, OR

There’s not another place that has more knowledge and insight when I it comes to anything and everything tile. Some of the best customer service as well. Products always in stock. Absolutely love this place and everyone there!