When choosing flooring for your home or commercial building, high-end materials such as marble, hardwood and stone are not always reasonable options, but that doesn’t mean the look can’t be duplicated in the form of porcelain or ceramic tile. Modern tile options can be made to look like almost any other type of flooring – marble, hardwood, stacked stone and metal, to name a few – and are low maintenance alternatives that provide extra durability without sacrificing style.
Hardwood Alternative.
Hardwood kitchen floors are elegant and can last a lifetime if properly cared for, but there is an inherent risk that comes with laying wood in the kitchen. A leaky refrigerator or dishwasher, an overflowing sink or a broken pipe can warp the boards and create a refinishing nightmare. Laying hardwood in the bathroom runs the same risks – wet feet, damp towels and drips are a wood floor’s arch enemies. If the risk of ruining this hefty hardwood investment is too much to bear, gorgeous tiles that mimic the look of real wood are the next best thing. Plus, not only are tiles resistant to moisture, allowing a wood look that won’t warp in baths or kitchens, this material lets you take wood outside on decks and around pools with no splinters, chips, nicks or scratches.
Simple Customization.
Tile made to look like marble, stacked stone, hardwood and metal provide a natural look with all the superior characteristics of tile – easy to clean, durable and extremely customizable. Unlike marble or stone which require proper care — cleaning, polishing, shining, protecting, sealing – porcelain and ceramic tiles are very low maintenance and can be cleaned with a simple solution of soap and water. Plus, custom size planks, colors, patterns and textures can be made to match any room and mimic any look without the price tag or difficult installation often associated with genuine materials. Porcelain and ceramic tile floors are also great for keeping the house cool in the summer months while adding warmth during the cooler months with radiant heat.
Porcelain and ceramic tile alternatives are a great choice for any space or look you’re after, but there are a few differences between porcelain and ceramic to consider before making your final decision such as PEI rating, color and composition. If you have any questions about these tile options, come in and see our San Diego flooring experts at any of our store locations and we’ll be happy to help.
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