Pros And Cons Of Various Types Of Tile

Choosing the right tile for your home can be challenging, but knowing the pros and cons of various types can help you make an informed decision. There are many options for tile flooring, including ceramic, porcelain, natural stone and glass. Depending on your preferences and budget, it’s important to choose the best fit for your project. 

Durability 

The durability of tile is an important factor in choosing the right type. This means that tile must be able to stand up to a wide variety of conditions over time without deteriorating. The most durable type of tile is porcelain, which is made from a refined clay and fired at a high temperature to make it hard and dense. Porcelain is also characterized by a low absorption rate, which makes it virtually impervious to water damage. It’s an excellent choice for high-traffic areas, especially bathrooms and laundry rooms. It’s also a good option for kitchens, since it is resistant to stains and spills. 

Aesthetics 

The aesthetics of tile are one of the most important factors to consider when you’re shopping for a new tile floor. It’s a good idea to choose a tile with a realistic look that will blend in with your interior design. Aesthetics can be a difficult subject to understand, but it’s an essential one to tackle when you’re working on a renovation project. When you know exactly what you’re doing, you can select the right type of tile and avoid costly mistakes. 

Water Absorption 

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing the right type of tile is water absorption. Ceramic tiles are categorized according to their water absorption rate. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) assigns water absorption ratings based on a procedure that tests a tile’s permeability to water. This includes boiling the tile and measuring its gain in weight after being saturated with water. Impervious or porcelain tiles have less than 0.5% water absorption, vitreous porcelain has 0.5-3% and ceramic tiles have anywhere from 3-7%. These ratings are critical for bathrooms, where it is crucial that the tiles absorb only a minimal amount of water. 

Cost

Not only does the type of tile you choose impact the aesthetics of your space, but also it affects how much money it costs to install and maintain. Ceramic tiles are the most affordable option and come in a variety of colors, shapes, and styles. They are manufactured using clay and then shaped and fired, which results in a glazed or unglazed surface that is both beautiful and durable. If you want a tile with an intricate pattern or unique shape, your project costs may increase since these require more time to cut and arrange. Hexagonal tile, for instance, costs a bit more due to their unconventional shapes and edges that need to be cut to fit the overall design. 

Maintenance 

Regardless of the type of tile, proper maintenance is essential to keeping it looking its best. It can help extend the life of your tile, protect it from damage and reduce the risk of asset failures. Ceramic tiles and porcelain floors are relatively low maintenance, but stone and other natural materials require more specific care. If you want to keep your tile clean, sweep it regularly with a vacuum or dust mop. Maintaining your tile and grout keeps it clean and helps prevent mold, mildew, rust, stains, and other problems from occurring. Moreover, it also removes allergens such as dirt, pollen, fungi, and bacteria from the area.