Porcelain tile is a popular bathroom flooring choice, but can be used throughout the home. Porcelain is harder and less porous than ceramic tile, making it more stain and water resistant. Likewise, it is suitable for in-floor radiant heat, helping to keep toes toasty on cold mornings. No matter what room of the home they will be in, porcelain tile is a beautiful, easy to maintain, and cost effective flooring choice. The following are four reasons to choose porcelain tiles.
1. Maintenance
Porcelain tile floors are significantly easier to maintain than other stones and tiles. Marble, for example, is porous and stains incredibly easily. By contrast, porcelain is non-porous and is therefore very difficult to stain. This means that homeowners do not need to be afraid of spilling a glass of red wine or sloshing a cup of coffee; likewise, this also makes it easier to find cleaning solutions as few will negatively effect, stain, or discolor porcelain tiles.
2. Appearance
While white, glossy porcelain tiles are the most recognizable, there are a wide variety of designs available. Porcelain tiles can mimic natural stone such as granite, marble, or limestone. Wood-look porcelain floors are a highly requested design trend that combines the look of natural wood floors with the durability of porcelain. In addition, unique finishes meant to mimic fabric, leather, and even animal prints are also available.
3. Cost
Porcelain is more cost-effective than other high-end flooring. The cost for porcelain floors can range between $0.15 to $15 per square foot. Because it often involves intricate designs, difficult to follow lines, and cutting tiles on site, installing porcelain floors is best left to the professionals; make sure to budget in the cost of installation when choosing new porcelain tiles.
4. Slip and grip
Some stone and tile floors, such as marble, can be extremely slippery underfoot. This can put homeowners at increased risk of slipping and falling, particularly in wet rooms such as bathrooms and kitchens. Porcelain tiles are rougher and designed with more grip. They are also naturally resistant to bacteria and odors, making them ideal for rooms where water is regularly spilled. This durability also makes porcelain ideal for high traffic areas; while other stones and tiles may get chipped, cracker, or scuffed, porcelain is quality building material that adds value to the home – and can withstand the test of time.
