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.
Pros & Cons of Stone, Ceramic, Cement, Porcelain, & Glass Tiles
Find out the strengths and weaknesses of various tile materials including stone, ceramic, cement, porcelain, and glass to make informed decisions for your next project.
1. Natural Stone
Natural stone tiles typically range in price from $6 to $15 per square foot. Made of from various types of natural stone such as granite, slate, travertine, marble, onyx, and sandstone, these tiles are cut into thin, uniform pieces. Renowned for their rich, one-of-a-kind appearance, natural stone tiles add a touch of beauty to any space. Additionally, they are relatively easy to maintain and keep clean, making them a popular choice for both aesthetic and practical reasons.
Pros
- Natural stone tiles ideal for walls, backsplashes, and floors. Granite tiles provide an affordable option for achieving the look of a countertop on a budget.
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.
2. Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles, priced between $2 to $7 per square foot, are made from a blend of clay, water, and minerals. They undergo high-temperature firing, with glazed varieties receiving an additional liquid glass coating before a final firing process. This treatment results in a durable surface that resists stains and scratches effectively.
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.
3. Cement Tiles
Cement tiles, priced between $9 to $17 per square foot, are made from natural materials by hand. Also known as encaustic or Cuban tiles in the US, they often feature vibrant and eye-catching 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.
4. Porcelain
Porcelain tiles, ranging from $3 to $7 per square foot, are a type of ceramic tile fired at higher temperatures, resulting in a denser and less porous material. Also we have a guide on difference between porcelain and ceramic tile
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.
5. Glass Tiles
Glass tiles, priced between $7 to $30 or more per square foot, consist of thin individual pieces of glass, often sold separately or as part of a mosaic. They may also be found with other types of tiles arranged on a mesh backing for easier installation.
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.
Read Also: Calibrated VS Rectified Tile
Conclusion
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
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