Advantages and Disadvantages of Tile Flooring | Cost of Tiles, Uses and Application of Tile Flooring
What is Tile Flooring? | Advantages and Disadvantages of Tile Flooring | Benefits of Tile Flooring | Tile Flooring Installation Cost
What is Tile Flooring?
Tile flooring is a popular flooring choice because it is relatively inexpensive, durable, and stylish.
There are many types of tile flooring including natural stone tiles, ceramic tiles, and porcelain tiles.
All of these types have their advantages and disadvantages. For example, natural stone tiles are a great alternative to marble or stone because they are cheaper and more durable.
Ceramic tiles are a great option if you have pets because they are more resistant to scratching than other types
Porcelain tiles are a great option if you want the look of ceramic and natural stone tiles with the durability of vitrified porcelain.
Benefits of Tile Flooring
Tile flooring has been around for centuries and is known for its durability, versatility, and affordability. They are versatile because they can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and more.
They are also affordable because most tiles are priced per square foot, so you can purchase as little or as much as you need.
Tile flooring is also durable because the individual pieces are thick and strong. They have to be strong because they are often made of ceramic which is less breakable than stone.
Tile flooring is often used for kitchens and bathrooms because tile is fairly easy to clean and waterproof. You might also see tile flooring installed in bathrooms or in hallways when thermal insulation is a priority.
Tile flooring comes in an assortment of colors, designs, patterns, sizes and thickness to suit any need.
Different Types of Tile Flooring
There are different types of tiles that you should know that’s sure to “floor” you. They include;
1. Ceramic Tiles
These tiles are made of stone and are generally cheaper than porcelain or ceramic tiles. They are also the most durable type of tile available.
2. Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are cement-based and much more brittle than ceramic tiles. They are also more porous, which means they will absorb moisture faster as well as dirt and stains faster when compared to other tile types.
3. Pressed Brick
These tiles are made of bricks. They are very durable and look similar to ceramic, porcelain, or ceramic tile flooring.
4. Plastic Tile
These tiles are made from plastic and can be laid over most any flooring material surface. They provide a smooth surface, but they are very slippery and will not be able to hold up to the weight of kegs or other things that may fall on them.
5. Granite Tile
These tiles are made from granite. They are very durable and can last for a long time if they are properly laid. They are also very expensive, so they may not be the best choice for your home or business.
6. Slate Tile
Slate tiles are made of slate. They are generally quite expensive and can be laid over most types of flooring material surfaces to provide a smooth finish for the entire floor. Although they are quite expensive, they can last for a very long time since they are very durable.
Slate tiles can be laid over most types of flooring materials to provide a smooth finish. They are also very durable and look almost identical to ceramic, porcelain, or ceramic tile flooring when installed correctly in your home or office.
7. Marble Tile
Marble tile is another type of tile that you may have heard about before. It is made from either marble or limestone and does not have a smooth finish like some other tile types.
Marble tiles are very popular because they have a very smooth finish and are quite durable. They also provide a sleek and elegant look that can make your home or office stand out from the rest.
8. Glass Tile
These tiles are made of glass and have the same look as ceramic tile flooring. They are not made from stone, so you may need to seal them against stains when you first install them in your home or office.
9. Clay Tile
Clay tile is porous, which means it can absorb moisture easily. This makes it great for multi-purpose rooms like kitchens and bathrooms, but it may also cause damage to other outdoor areas.
10. Terrazzo Tile
These tiles are made of ceramic and stone and look identical to ceramic, porcelain, or ceramic tile flooring. They are very durable and can be laid in any type of flooring material.
They are also very smooth, which makes them perfect for open areas where you will need to walk a lot without breaking your back from standing on hard surfaces like linoleum or vinyl.
11. Travertine Tile
Travertine Tile is made from natural materials and is very durable when installed correctly. As with many other types of tiles, it can be used for both interior or exterior applications.
Travertine tile is made from limestone. They are very versatile and can be used for exterior surfaces as well as interior surfaces. They have a smooth finish and look similar to limestone or ceramic tile flooring.
12. Sandstone Tile
Sandstone tile is another type of tile that should only be used for interior flooring surfaces unless you are willing to lay a protective covering over top of them where they will be exposed to the elements.
13. Mosaic Tiles
These tiles are made from glass or stone. They can be laid inside or outside your home and provide a unique look with their varied colors.
14. Cement Tile
Cement Tile is made from cement and is generally quite brittle. They are very durable and look similar to porcelain or ceramic tile, but they are not the best choice for large areas because of their brittleness.
15. Saltillo Tile
Saltillo tile is made from clay and has a very rough texture that makes it unattractive in some homes. It may be great for textured walls, but it is not a great choice for flooring material surfaces unless you plan to cover them with carpet or mats.
16. Limestone Tile
Limestone is a very durable type of tile that can be used inside or outside your home. They are generally quite expensive, but they do provide a smooth finish for any room where you decide to install them.
17. Wooden Tiles
Although wood looks very similar to ceramic or porcelain tiles, it is not made from the same materials. However, in some cases a wooden tile may be used for a flooring material surface as long as it is veneered or laminated.
18. Terracotta Tile
Terracotta Tile is made from clay and generally has much more of an earthy look than ceramic, porcelain, or ceramic tile flooring. It is also porous, which makes it prone to damage if exposed to water or other liquids for too long.
Terra Cotta Tile is made from natural materials and has a rough texture that makes it unsuitable for many homes. It is usually used to cover exterior walls or build patio roofs instead of being used as an inside flooring material surface.
19. Quarry Tile
Quarry Tile is made from clay and is small when compared to ceramic, porcelain, or ceramic tile flooring. They are generally only useful for indoor use on a small scale because they do not provide a smooth surface for walking on.
20. Onyx Tiles
Onyx Tiles are made from stone and have a very smooth texture. They are very durable and can be used inside or outside your home.
21. Resin Tile
Resin Tile is made from resin and looks similar to ceramic, porcelain, or ceramic tile flooring. They are very durable and provide a smooth surface for walking on, but they are generally only useful for indoor use as the rough texture may damage other surfaces if left outdoors for long periods of time.
22. Porphyry Tile
Porphyry Tile is made from natural materials. It is generally quite expensive and may be used for indoor as well as outdoor applications.
Common Uses and Application of Tile Flooring
Tile floors can be installed in different settings. They include;
1. Tile Floors for Kitchen
Tile flooring is very durable and therefore very popular in the kitchen. The use of this tile flooring enables you to have a modern looking and clean kitchen without worrying about scratches that can occur from sharp objects.
2. Tile Flooring in Garages
Ceramic flooring is ideal for garages because it provides a clean looking space that is also very durable, hard to scratch, and resistant to water.
3. Tile Floors for Bathrooms
Tile flooring is resistant to water, stains, and other liquid substances. It is therefore ideal for all types of bathrooms where people may put cleaner or food on the floor.
4. Community Rooms and Other Public Areas
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles are easily cleaned, exposed to all types of conditions, and they are durable with a low maintenance cost.
These qualities make them ideal for community rooms that are used by large numbers of people on a regular basis.
5. Tile Floors for Bathroom Walls
Tile flooring is very durable and can be easily maintained. If you have children or pets that scratch the ceramic tile flooring, you should consider installing rubber runners to soften the hard surface of the tiles while allowing for easier cleaning.
6. Tile Floors for Kitchens
Tile flooring provides a great covering for all types of floors including tile floors that you want covered with carpets or area rugs because they are very hard and smooth.
7. Tile Floors for Living Room
Tile flooring provides a clean and modern looking living room because they are very durable, easy to clean, and resistant to stains.
8. Tile Floors for Dining Rooms
Tile flooring is ideal for dining rooms because it can be used in almost every part of the room such as the walls or the floors.
It is an ideal choice for a dining room because it can provide a seamless transition from one type of flooring used in this room to another.
9. Tile Floors in Laundry Rooms
Tile flooring is a great choice for laundry rooms because it is easy to clean and hard to damage. It will therefore provide you with a durable option for the floors in this area.
Tile flooring is a great option for laundry rooms because it is easy to clean and resistant to stains.
10. Tile Floors for Basements
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tile flooring is a great choice for basement living rooms because it can make this small room more spacious and comfortable.
Ceramic tiles can be used in all parts of the room including on the walls. They can also be used to cover other types of floors that you may have in your basement.
11. Tile Floors for Pool Deck
Tile flooring is ideal for pool decks because it is very durable, resistant to water and other types of liquid substances.
12. Tile Floors for Patio
Tile flooring is ideal for patios and similar areas where you may want to have a modern looking space with the durability that tile flooring offers.
Ceramic tiles are very durable and can therefore be used outdoors where it is exposed to extreme weather conditions.
13. Tile Floors for Outside Porches
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles are very durable and can therefore be used in areas that are exposed to extreme temperature changes like outside porches.
14. Other areas of your home
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles are suitable for all types of flooring including the walls or other areas in your home where you want to have a smooth and seamless transition between types of floors that you may have in different areas.
Ceramic flooring designs can also add to the overall look and style of your kitchen or living room.
15. Tile Floors for Commercial Buildings
Ceramic flooring is ideal for floors in buildings like commercial buildings, office buildings, and other similar areas because they provide a clean and modern looking environment that is also very durable.
16. Tile Floors for Warehouses
Ceramic flooring is ideal for warehouses because it can be used to cover all types of floors including the flooring where goods are stocked as well as on walls in the warehouse.
18. Tile Floors for Driveways and other similar areas
Tile flooring is ideal for driveways because they are durable, easy to clean and resistant to water.
This makes them a great choice because they have no problem with moisture and can easily withstand all types of moist conditions including snow that may melt into water.
19. Tile Floors in Block Buildings
Ceramic flooring is ideal in block buildings like houses with basement floors, patios, and similar areas because they provide a smooth and seamless transition between different floors that may be present in these areas.
20. Tile Floors for Swimming Pools
Tile flooring is ideal for swimming pools because it can be used to cover the pool as well as the surrounding area around the pool.
It is also resistant to water and other liquid substances which make it a good choice for swimming pools.
21. Tile Floors for Balcony
Ceramic flooring is a great choice for balconies because it can provide an elegant look that is very durable and easy to maintain.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Tile Flooring
1. Tile Floors are Durable
Ceramic, mosaic, and porcelain tiles are resistant to moisture, making them long-lasting and difficult to crack. They can also withstand significant foot traffic. If properly maintained, a quality installation can last for 12-20 years.
2. Tile Floors are Water-Resistant
Tile floors are waterproof. Without grout, water can easily be drained from your floor and away from the structure of your home.
Ceramic tiles have an outer shield over the materials that prevent water from passing through. They are also resistant to high humidity, making them excellent for usage in damp locations like kitchens and baths.
3. Tile Floors are Scratch Resistant
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles have a hard surface that is resistant to scuffs and scratches. When used with a high-quality floor sealer, ceramic tiles can become even more resistant to staining.
4. Tile Floors have Low Maintenance
Ceramic tile floors require less frequent maintenance than carpet, hardwood, and other types of flooring. You can clean tile floors with a damp mop or sponge and a mild detergent. You can vacuum tile floors with almost any vacuum without the bristles from the brush getting caught in grout lines.
Tile flooring is simple to maintain. They include a coating of liquid glass to protect them against dirt, stains, and liquids, allowing you to mop or wipe them away fast and simply. Furthermore, because they lack chemical active qualities, they inhibit the growth of mold, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms.
5. Tile Floors are Non-Allergenic
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are non-allergenic.
In fact, these materials are often recommended for use in high-traffic areas like schools, daycare centers, and hospitals because they do not contain the dangerous chemicals found in some other types of tiles.
6. Tile Floors are Fire Resistant
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles are fire resistant and can withstand extremely hot temperatures. In comparison to other types of flooring, tile becomes cooler faster after being exposed to heat, which is known as thermal conductivity.
7. Environmentally Friendly Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile is an environmentally friendly alternative to hardwood flooring. As a result, it is made from unique high-tech concrete that includes porcelain china clay particles and recycled glass and sand. It also produces less waste and requires less energy to manufacture than traditional flooring due to its use of recycled materials.
Natural clay and other raw materials are used to make tiles. It is made without the use of any natural materials such as plants, trees, or rock. It also does not necessitate the use of harmful cleaning agents.
8. Tile Floors are Affordable
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tile flooring is less expensive than wood, stone, or other types of flooring. For example, a high-quality ceramic tile should cost you about $0.01 per square foot.
In comparison to vinyl tiles that can cost up to $0.09 per square foot, ceramic tiles are cheaper because they are not as susceptible to cracks and breakage. Furthermore, the installation costs of ceramic tile flooring are less expensive than existing traditional materials.
9. Tiles are Available in a Wide Range of Colors, Textures, Designs and Styles
Tiles are available in a wide range of colors, textures, designs, styles, stones, and sizes to satisfy every taste. For example, you can find tiles in different styles such as geometric, classical, rustic, and contemporary.
Furthermore, when installation and maintenance costs are factored in, tiles prove to be less cost-effective in the long term.
10. Tile Floors are Easy to Clean and Maintain
Tile flooring is simple to clean and maintain with a damp mop or sponge and a mild detergent. You can also vacuum tile floors with almost any vacuum without the bristles from the brushes getting caught in grout lines.
11. You Can Save Money on Tile Flooring
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tile flooring is less expensive than wood, stone, or other types of flooring. It also has great resale value.
12. Tiles are Easy to Install
You can install ceramic tiles using glue and grout in a relatively short time period. By simply laying the tiles in rows, you can create beautiful borders or patterns that hold the tiles together tightly. You should also make sure that the tiles are a perfect fit.
13. Excellent for High Traffic Use
Ceramic tiles are excellent for use in high-traffic areas such as schools, daycare centers. and hospitals because they do not contain the dangerous chemicals found in some other types of tiles.
14. Resists Wear
Porcelain tile will not develop wear and tear like vinyl tiles or other types of flooring due to its high durability.
15. Difficult to Break
Ceramic tiles are very difficult to break because they are strong and rigid. They also do not have a soft underlayer that is susceptible to damage, which is something you should consider when purchasing ceramic, porcelain, or ceramic tile flooring.
16. They’re Beautiful
Ceramic tiles are visually beautiful with a wide range of sizes, styles, colors, and textures to suit any taste. Additionally, you can create beautiful patterns and borders with creative placement of tiles.
Disadvantages of Tile Flooring
1. Tiles are Difficult to Repair
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles are fragile and can break easily. If a tile is chipped or broken, you should consider replacing the entire tile instead of trying to repair it. Attempting to repair a damaged tile is labor-intensive and less effective than replacing it.
2. Tile Floors are slippery
Tile flooring is notoriously slippery when wet. All types of tile flooring are susceptible to slip and fall accidents that can lead to serious injuries or even death.
If you are planning to use ceramic, porcelain, or ceramic tile flooring, you should consider installing rubber runners in wet areas such as your bathroom. These runners will provide a soft barrier between the tiles and the flooring and prevent slip and fall accidents.
3. Tiles are Hard Surface
Ceramic tiles have a hard and smooth surface that can be hard on your feet. If you are planning to use ceramic, porcelain, or ceramic tile flooring in your home or office, you should consider purchasing several area rugs so that you can soften the hard surface of the tiles.
4. Short Life Span
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles are prone to crack over time. This cracking can be easily noticed because the tiles become dull in color and lose their shine as a result of this damage.
Although ceramic tiles are less expensive than other types of flooring like wood or stone, they may need replacing after only a few years.
5. Ceramic Tiles are Very Heavy
Ceramic tiles are very heavy and some can only support a few pounds before they break. If you have young children or pets, you should consider using tile flooring alternatives like vinyl or linoleum that are extremely light in weight.
Some tiles, such as ceramic, are heavy, making them unsuitable for upper-story installations. To avoid worry and difficulty, if you want to install ceramic tile on an upper level of a building, make sure to employ professional tiling services in wherever you are located.
6. Cleaning and Maintenance Can be Complicated
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tile flooring require professional cleaning to avoid permanent staining from food, dirt, and other types of stains.
7. Color Variation
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles have different color variations from tile to tile. For this reason, you should consider checking more than one tile so that you can compare the colors and find a matching set.
8. Tile Flooring is Susceptible to Scratches
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles are susceptible to scratches that can occur from dropped heavy objects or sharp objects like keys and coins.
9. Likely to Crack as it Ages
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles can crack over time due to the weight of things that you stand on them.
10. Hard to Install
Ceramic tiles are difficult to install because they must be cut precisely in order for them to fit together properly. The cuts must also be made perfectly if you want to avoid cracks or other problems with the tile flooring as it ages.
Ceramic tiles are heavy and difficult to install, necessitating the use of a range of equipment, mortars, and grouts.
It can also be installed by a novice, although it is a difficult and time-consuming task. Any installation error can lead to higher repair expenditures in the future.
As a result, many people engage specialists to do the installation work. Unfortunately, because installation necessitates a large workforce, tile floor job costs might rise by 30 percent to 50 percent.
11. Tile Flooring Cold Surface
Tile flooring is cold to the touch. This coldness can make ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles uncomfortable to walk and stand on for long periods of time.
Ceramic tiles are made of stone, which allows them to retain heat very well. Because they are cold to the touch, they lack this ability and cannot keep your home warm when the weather turns cold in the winter.
12. Easily Dirtied
Ceramic, porcelain, and ceramic tiles are easily dirtied and can be stained by small amounts of water or other liquids. Flooring that is easy to clean and maintain will add to your enjoyment of ceramic flooring.
13 Things You Should Know Before Hiring a Flooring Contractor
Hiring a professional flooring contractor can be an overwhelming task with so many options available in the market.
These tips include;
1. Find Someone with Experience
Hiring an expert is often your best bet when it comes to installing new flooring. However, how can you know if you have found a pro that will do a good job?
An educated buying decision includes insisting on hiring a contractor who has experience in the field. You should ask any potential contractor for referrals or past projects they have worked on, and also look for reviews online.
2. Establish a Budget
You should have an idea of the total cost you are willing to spend on your project in order to be able to determine the best contractor for the job.
You can also ask for a quote from different contractors before hiring them. This way, you will receive an idea of how much you are willing to pay out for different jobs.
Budget helps to determine what you are willing to spend on your flooring project
3. Get References from Professionals
You can also get references from trusted flooring contractors for suggestions and recommendations regarding your needs and budget.
4. Compare the Descriptions of Different Contractors
You should also compare the descriptions of different flooring contractors so that you can identify the ones who possess the desired expertise, experience, and knowledge. You can also compare types of flooring offered by different contractors to determine which one will fit your needs best.
5. Choose a Flooring Contractor with a Professional License
You should look for a contractor who has been licensed in your area. This way, you can be sure that your contractor is properly insured for any accidents or damages that may occur during the flooring installation.
6. Ask to See a Project Invoice
To be sure of costs, ask your potential contractor to show you an invoice of a similar project they have done in the past. This will help you to determine how your project will be priced out on an individual basis.
7. Look for a Referral
You can also get a referral from someone you trust. This way, you will be able to get recommendations from a person who has been satisfied with the work of your contractor in the past.
8. Be Prepared for Negotiation
In cases of emergency, you may have to compromise on certain aspects such as price or deadline just to be able to complete your project within the timeframe that is provided for.
However, you should also ask your contractor questions and clarify any aspects that may be unclear. You can also ask for different options or a price quotation of what other contractors can do the same job within your area at a lower cost.
9. Find Suggestions & Reviews Online
You can also get suggestions on the internet regarding flooring contractors in your particular area. There are reviews and blogs that can help you determine which contractor will work best with your needs.
10. Know the Laws and Regulations to Avoid Problems
You should also know the laws and regulations concerning flooring installation in your area before hiring a contractor. You don’t want to be fined in the case of any violations.
It is also important to ensure that your contractor has been licensed within your particular state, as some states permit sub-contractors to install flooring without installing their seal of authorization.
11. Know the Different Types of Flooring
There are different types of flooring that you can choose from when deciding on which contractor to go with for your particular job.
You should be sure that the contractor has experience in installing the type of flooring that you want installed, so that they know how to install it properly.
12. Decide the Type of Subfloor You are going to Install
You should talk to your contractor about the type of subfloor you are going to install because there are different options.
For instance, you can choose between hardwood or carpet underneath your ceramic tile flooring. This is important because it will determine what type of finish you will get at the end of the job.
13. Determine the Right Tile Size
You should choose the right tile sizes based on the size of your room and your personal preferences. You don’t want too big or too small tiles on your floor, as it will make the space look cluttered and messy.
There are many options to consider when choosing the right flooring contractor. In order to make an informed decision, you must have an idea about how much you are willing to spend on a project, what type of flooring you will install, and where it will be installed.
Tile Flooring Installation Cost Per Square Feet
In general, materials and installation will cost between $14 and $22 per square foot. The cost of tile installation for a kitchen or bathroom makeover can range from $13.50 to $83 per square foot.
Labor prices can range from $4 and $32 per square foot, with some pros charging by the hour. You can $30 to $120 per hour, depending on the size and complexity of the tiling project. The square footage and type of tile used are the two criteria that influence the overall cost of tile installation.
Ceramic tiles cost from $0.50 and $35 per square foot. Because ceramic is softer and less durable than porcelain, it is less expensive.
Porcelain tiles cost between $3 and $35 per square foot. Thin porcelain is more expensive than thick porcelain for interior units. They are made using a unique technology that ensures maximum endurance with minimal thickness.
The rate contractors charge is affected by the type of flooring foundation and the room arrangement. Ceramic tile, for example, will almost certainly cost more to install on a cement floor.
Installing it on a sound wood foundation may save you money because you’ll need less materials and spend less time on the job.
How Long Does Tile Flooring Last?
As you know, tile flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners. In general, tiles can last as last from 10 to 30 years or more, depending on the level of traffic the floor receives.
However, some factors can contribute to the lifespan of the tiles. One such factor is the thickness of the tile. If the tile is thin, it will tend to crack and break more often than a thicker tile.
Another factor is the quality of the tile. Tiles made of high-quality material will typically last longer than those made of inferior material.
To make sure your tiles are lasting as long as possible, we recommend that you avoid using abrasive cleaning products and abrasive pads for any cleaning, as they will wear away at the tiles
