Versatile ceramic tile flooring can be installed in a broad range of environments. Most often, ceramic tile is used in kitchens, bathrooms, and mudrooms, but many homeowners also install it in bedrooms and living areas. But is it the right choice for you? Read the article to learn about ceramic tile flooring pros and cons to make an informed choice.
Ceramic Tile Flooring Pros and Cons
Today, homeowners can choose from multiple types of floor tiles, but ceramic tile offers considerable benefits without some of the concerns and costs of other tile materials.
Advantages
Made out of clay, water, and minerals, then fired at high temperatures, ceramic tile has a dense construction and non-porous surface. Ceramic tile flooring is durable, easy to clean and maintain, water and stain-proof, and extremely versatile.
Ceramic tiles are affordable and come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and shades with interesting patterns and textures. They can be printed to reproduce the look of many types of hardwood and natural stones, for example, Carrara marble tiles. You can choose from different beautiful design options and combine them with other flooring options and decorative tiles to get the best visual impact.
Many ceramic tiles are coated with a glaze, and that gives them an excellent protective top layer. Glazed ceramic tiles are waterproof and impervious to most stains, so they make a good choice for floors in wet areas like kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms.
Ceramic tile floors don't harbor germs, dust, pollen, or any other allergen, so they are suitable for people who suffer from allergies. They are easy to clean as well. Routine maintenance will consist of sweeping or vacuuming the floor with a soft brush attachment to keep it free of dirt and loose debris.
Compared to other tile materials, ceramic is relatively lightweight. Besides, ceramic tiles are the easiest to cut and lay. If you have a lot of intricate cuts to make, they are your best choice, especially if you are planning a DIY project.
Disadvantages
And what about the cons? As ceramics are not as strong as porcelain, you will not find them in the larger formats, so if you're looking for a sleek, uninterrupted look, it's best to choose large porcelain tiles.
Besides, ceramics water absorption rate is as high as 4% of its own mass, so ceramic floor tiles can be prone to cracks or chips. That's why they can't be used outdoors where there will be constant temperature changes. The unglazed ceramic tile varieties will also require sealing to protect the surface from liquids and stains.
Conclusion
Ceramic tile is a perfect flooring material that works in any room of the house. We have discussed ceramic tile flooring pros and cons, and as you can see, you can't go wrong with this tile. It's a good choice for those who are looking for a durable and elegant flooring option and want easy maintenance and long-lasting value. And for the price, ceramic floor tile is hard to beat.
