Whether you want to replace a laminate floor, backsplash, shower stall or countertops, ceramic tile is a durable, easy-to-clean option that can add value to your home. Both ceramic and stone tiles are nearly maintenance free, though grout will need occasional resealing.
What are the benefits of ceramic tiles?
1. Durable
Floors and walls that are covered by synthetic materials are very easy to damage. A dragging chair or overzealous child with some crayons can create an indelible mark on the surface that will never go away. It takes much more work to create permanent damage in tile. Although tiles can be chipped or cracked if a heavy object is dropped upon them, damaged tiles can be easily removed and replaced without affecting the remaining undamaged tiles.
2. Easy to Clean
One of the biggest problems with synthetic materials is that you have to be careful of what chemicals you use to clean them. Tile is much easier to clean since you can scrub more vigorously using any chemical you want. It is also very difficult for dirt to gain any real purchase on the surface of tile.
3. Waterproof
Tile choices such as glazed ceramic or porcelain tiles are waterproof, which makes them excellent choices for areas of the home that are regularly exposed to water, such as the kitchen or bathroom. Using tile for a backsplash, a shower surround, wall covering or flooring in these areas can help prevent water damage to underlying structural elements.
4. Hypoallergenic
Since many tile materials come from natural sources such as stone or ceramic materials, they don’t emit volatile organic compounds, which may trigger allergies in some people, like many synthetic material choices may. Tile surfaces that are nonporous and easily wiped down, such as glazed ceramic tiles or glass tiles, are also less likely to attract and maintain dust, pollen, dander and other allergens. This feature of tile also makes it more resistant to bacteria, mold and mildew.
5. Highly Flexible Design Options
Since tile comes in almost every pattern, shape, size, color, pattern and style possible, tile can attractively fit into nearly any shape or room design imaginable.
6. Easily Customizable Pricing Options
There is a wide variety of options to choose from when you are dealing with tile. You can get everything from the classic tile you see in many bathrooms and kitchens to high-end luxury tiles, which makes tile an affordable option for nearly every type of budget.