Should You Choose Tile Flooring?
Tile is the most durable flooring option: 100% waterproof, lasts forever, and requires minimal maintenance. Perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. But it's cold, hard underfoot, and installation typically requires professionals. Learn about ceramic vs porcelain and total costs.
Quick Summary
Material cost
$3-10/sq ft
Lifespan
50-100+ years
Best for
Kitchens, bathrooms
Ceramic vs Porcelain Tile
Ceramic Tile
Made from clay fired at lower temperatures. More porous and softer than porcelain. Budget-friendly option.
Pros
- ✓Less expensive ($3-6/sq ft)
- ✓Easier to cut and install
- ✓Good for walls and low-moisture areas
- ✓Wide variety of colors/styles
Cons
- ✗More porous (absorbs 3% water)
- ✗Chips and cracks easier
- ✗Not frost-resistant
- ✗Stains more easily
Porcelain Tile
Made from refined clay fired at higher temperatures. Denser, harder, and more water-resistant. Premium option.
Pros
- ✓Extremely durable and hard
- ✓Nearly waterproof (0.5% absorption)
- ✓Frost-resistant for outdoor use
- ✓Stain-resistant
- ✓Color goes through entire tile
Cons
- ✗More expensive ($5-10/sq ft)
- ✗Harder to cut (needs wet saw)
- ✗Heavier and more brittle
- ✗Requires professional install
Recommendation: Use porcelain for all floor applications, especially bathrooms and kitchens. Ceramic is fine for backsplashes and walls where water exposure is minimal.
Pros & Cons of Tile Flooring
Advantages
- ✓100% waterproof: Perfect for wet areas
- ✓Lasts forever: 50-100+ years with care
- ✓Low maintenance: Sweep and mop, seal grout yearly
- ✓Hygienic: Doesn't harbor allergens or bacteria
- ✓Fire-resistant: Won't burn
Disadvantages
- ✗Cold underfoot: Uncomfortable without radiant heat
- ✗Hard surface: Tiring to stand on, breaks dishes
- ✗Expensive install: $5-10/sq ft labor
- ✗Grout maintenance: Needs sealing and cleaning
- ✗Difficult DIY: Requires skill and special tools
Total Cost Breakdown
Is Tile Right for Your Project?
Choose Tile If:
- • Installing in bathroom (especially shower/tub area)
- • Kitchen with high moisture and spills
- • You want the most durable, permanent flooring
- • Budget allows for professional installation
- • You like the look and feel of tile
- • Considering radiant floor heating (tile conducts heat well)
Consider Alternatives If:
- • Installing in bedrooms or living rooms (too cold/hard)
- • Tight budget (LVP is cheaper and easier)
- • DIY project without tile experience
- • You want warmer, softer flooring underfoot
- • Quick installation needed (tile takes longer)
Frequently Asked Questions
What's better for bathrooms: ceramic or porcelain tile?
Porcelain is better for bathrooms. It's denser and less porous than ceramic, absorbing virtually no water (0.5% vs 3% for ceramic). Porcelain is also more durable and frost-resistant. However, ceramic costs less and is fine for low-moisture bathrooms. For shower floors and wet areas, always choose porcelain.
How long does tile flooring last?
Properly installed tile lasts 50-100+ years. The tile itself is virtually indestructible. However, grout needs resealing every 1-2 years and may need replacement every 10-15 years. Cracked tiles can be replaced individually. Tile is considered a permanent flooring solution.
Ready for the Next Step?
Compare tile with carpet, a soft and warm flooring option perfect for bedrooms and living rooms.