Whether you’re renovating, modernizing, or just looking to change things up, altering your tile can be the perfect method to creating a new look in your home. We’ve compiled the pros and cons of each tile material you may come across so the choice can be easy for you:

Terra Cotta

Being one of the oldest materials around, terra cotta has gained a reputation for being highly durable and having a unique rustic look. Terra cotta has a variety of finish styles available with a warm and earthy feel and is naturally resistant to mold and other bacterial growths. It’s recommended for flooring, countertops, walls.

Because it’s made of natural materials, it is VERY porous and must be sealed annually to prevent staining and cracking. Professional installation is a must when it comes to terra cotta.

Ceramic

It’s been said that ceramic tile may be the only flooring material that truly works in any room of the house, although it’s most common in kitchens and bathrooms due to the hard, dust-resistant surface. Ceramic tile can also be one of the more affordable flooring materials, starting at well below $5 per square foot for budget tile and DIY installation. Unlike terra cotta, ceramic tile is fairly easy to care for, with routine maintenance being as easy as sweeping or a quick wipe-down.

This is one material you really can’t go wrong with.

Porcelain 

Being a type of ceramic tile, porcelain is characterized as being stronger, harder, and even more durable than ordinary ceramics. Similar to standard ceramic tile, installation of porcelain tile is hard, time-consuming work, although it is not particularly complicated. Porcelain is a great investment for those looking for a durable, elegant floor that will last for many decades.

As far as affordability goes, the cost for porcelain tiles are quite comparable to that of good-quality ceramic tiles, ranging from $5 to $25 per square foot.

Marble

There’s just something about marble that exudes a feeling of luxury and elegance. Perhaps it’s the easy texture it adds to a space. Or maybe it’s the cool, sophistication. Maybe it’s just pretty and timeless. It also is pricey. So, that’s something to consider. And while it is gorgeous – it can stain and scratch easily. That’s why its most recommended in smaller design spaces like showers or backsplashes rather than flooring and kitchen countertops. 

If you need help choosing the right tile material for you, don’t hesitate to give us a call.