Walking into a showroom can be so inspiring and spectacular. So much to choose from and so many options. Not to mention different price points and types of tiles including stone,
A group of tile manufacturers, retailers, and installers have provided their best tips on the pros and cons of the most common types of tiles, including stone, ceramic, cement, porcelain, and glass.
Natural Stone
Price
$6 to $15 per square foot
Made Of
Pieces of natural stone, include granite, slate, travertine, marble, onyx, sandstone, and many more. Natural stone is cut into thin, regular pieces. Stone tile has a rick, one-of-a-kind looks. Beautiful to look at and easy to clean.
Pros
Walls, backsplashes, and floors. If you want the look of a countertop but are on a tight budget, use granite tiles instead of a slab.
Cons
It requires extra maintenance since most stone tiles can be damaged by exposure to pigment, water, or acid.
ProTip Takeaway: Seal natural stone on installation and reseal every ten years.
Ceramic
Price
$2 to $7 per square foot
Made Of
A mix of clay, water, and minerals. Ceramic tiles are fired at high temperatures. Glazed styles are then treated with a liquid glass coating and fired again, creating a hard, stain, and scratch-resistant surface.
Pros
Ceramic tile is typically affordable, durable, and easy to install. It also comes in endless arrays of colors and designs.
Cons
Colors can vary from lot to lot, and ceramic is not ideal for high-impact areas. Also, handmade or personalized tiles can be expensive.
ProTip Takeaway: Unglazed tiles are sometimes referred to as "quarry" tiles.
Cement
Price
$9 to $17 per square foot
Made Of
Cement is handmade of natural materials. Cement tiles, also known as encaustic or Cuban tiles in the US, typically possess bold patterns.
Pros
Cement tiles are resilient and beautiful. They are appropriate for floors, walls, and backsplashes.
Cons
Cement tiles are very pricey and are not as common as other tiles. So, your installer may not be familiar with them.
Moreover, cement tiles are prone to etching by acid or harsh detergents.
ProTip Takeaway: Cement must be sealed on installation and resealed occasionally.
Porcelain
Price
$3 to $7 per square foot
Made Of
Porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile that is fired at a higher temperature than ceramic, making it denser and less porous.
Pros
Porcelain is used on floors, walls, and backsplashes. Easy to clean and comes in a variety of styles.
Cons
Porcelain tiles require a special setting material designed to adhere to non-porous materials. People often buy the wrong one.
ProTip Takeaway: Porcelain has a transitional style that works nicely with many décor styles.
Glass
Price
$7 to $30 or more per square foot
Made Of
Glass is made of thin pieces of glass sold individually or as a mosaic, sometimes with other types of tile on a mesh backing.
Pros
The glass tile is colorful, reflective, and easy to clean glass tile. Best for walls and backsplashes. Sometimes glass tile is used for flooring. The wide range of colors makes glass so attractive.
Cons
Glass can be very expensive and difficult to install. Since the tiles are transparent, the adhesive is visible through the tiles.
ProTip Takeaway: For the best outcome, have a professional flooring expert install glass tile for you instead of doing it yourself.
Whatever tile you chose, remember to have an expert install it for you and consider which tile would be best for you.
It is always best to do a bit of research to know how much a tile will cost, the maintenance it will require, and outweigh the pros and cons of each tile.
Read Also Can you put carpet over tile
Ready to start your perfect bathroom remodel project? We can help. Contact us for a free estimate today.
Still, looking for more information about types of tiles to have installed in your home? With our complimentary design services, we can help you determine which is the best option for you and your home. Contact us for a free consultation today.
