Floors are generally warmer for a home compared to tiles. This is primarily due to the material properties and the way heat is conducted through these surfaces. While tiles can be made from materials like ceramic, porcelain, or stone, which are good insulators, they are also cold to the touch. Floors, especially those made from materials like wood, carpet, or laminate, tend to retain heat better and provide a more comfortable surface to walk on.

The warmth of a floor is influenced by its thermal conductivity, which measures how well a material conducts heat. Wood, carpet, and laminate have lower thermal conductivities, meaning they do not transfer heat as quickly as tiles. This results in floors feeling warmer to the touch. For instance, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, wood has a thermal conductivity of about 0.16 W/m·K, while ceramic tiles can have a thermal conductivity of around 0.8 W/m·K. This significant difference in conductivity explains why tiles feel cooler than floors.

Additionally, the installation method can also affect the warmth of the surface. Tiles are often installed on subfloors, which can insulate the tiles from the heat source. Floors, especially those with underfloor heating systems, can distribute heat more evenly throughout the room, making them feel warmer.

In conclusion, floors are generally warmer for a home due to their lower thermal conductivity and the way they retain heat. This warmth is enhanced by the installation method and the materials used in floor construction.