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Natural Stone Flooring vs Ceramic Tile Flooring – The flooring of your rooms usually sets the base to the other areas of your house. Therefore, you must get a floor that is stylish, durable, and ready to experience the daily human traffic.
Two of the most flooring types which are embraced by many people in Singapore are Ceramic and stone tiling. These two have some similarities making it difficult for one to determine which is the best option for the floor.
However, if you understand the differences between the two kinds of flooring materials, it can be easier for you to make your decision.
Table of Contents
Natural Stone Flooring vs. Ceramic Tile Flooring
i) Meaning
Natural stone refers to materials which are quarried from the earth and then cut to form uniform tiles that they can be used on backsplashes, walls and floors. Some of the most famous kinds of natural stone options are slate, travertine, limestone, granite and marble flooring.
Ceramic tile is a made material that is made using clay. It’s usually hardened in a kiln, finished and then glazed for wonderful design. These kinds of tiles can be used in both dry and wet areas.
Therefore, you can use them as your flooring option in the laundry, kitchen, living room, and bathrooms. Since these tiles are made they are available in myriad colors, you can get one which suits your design preferences
ii) Cost
Natural stone- This is a scarce natural resource that is very expensive. If you have enough money, then it’s worth to spend it in getting a luxurious look offered by these natural stones.
Ceramic tiles are among the most durable and affordable flooring options which you can choose. The prices of these flooring materials usually depend on various factors such as grade, finish and style of the tile that you choose.
For instance, glazed tiles are more expensive when compared to unglazed ones, however you install them you must do an additional finishing.
iii) Durability
Natural stone. The durability of your floor will depend on the kind of natural stone that you choose. For instance, slate and granite are more durable compared to marble or limestone.
When natural stone starts to wear out, it tends to chip along the corners and edges. If you wish to minimize such occurrence you should start with a more rustic tile.
Ceramic tiles have a variety of types which have varying hardness. For you to get a very durable tile, then you can choose one has a higher PEI rating, probably more than 3.
iv) Colour selection
Natural stone has so many natural color variations that range from brown, deep beige, and crisp white tones. The material that you choose will determine the final look of your floor.
Ceramic tile, on the other hand, is man-made therefore it has numerous color variations. It can be designed to have a look that resembles hardwood planks or natural stone.
Since ceramic tile is highly versatile it becomes very easier for you to get a color that can match your interior décor.
v) Cleaning and maintenance
Natural stone tiling
Regular cleaning and maintenance are required by both ceramic and natural stone tiling. However, the way on how you can carry out this process varies.
Since natural stone tiling is very porous, it needs a glaze or sealant to fill the pores. This assists in making the tiles to be more resistant to stains and water. Depending on the kind of natural stone that you choose, you may be required to reapply the sealant regularly.
If you are cleaning the natural stone tiles, you are advised to avoid acidic cleaners since they can damage them. However, sealant can assist in minimizing the damage which may occur due to splashes or spills of acidic liquids such as vinegar or citrus.
Ceramic tiles
If you get a glazed ceramic tile, you can use it without adding any coating. However, in case you are worried about staining then you can add a sealant over the grout lines. If you decide to use the unglazed tiles then you can add a coating and sealant to protect them from stains.
The good thing with glazed ceramic is that you are allowed to use many of the cleaning agents which are available in the market in sanitising your floor. It’s only the agents which are a bit harsh that you are supposed to careful to avoid degrading the grout lines.
Natural Stone Flooring vs Ceramic Tile Flooring – Conclusion
If you have been facing challenges in determining the best materials between natural stone flooring and ceramic tile flooring, then this guide can assist you in your decision-making process.
