When it comes to building a new house, or renovating the one you currently live in, there are a lot of decisions that need to be made. From every light switch and paint color, to every door knob and floor board, the decisions are all up to you. So when you’re considering new flooring for rooms like kitchens and baths, you’re probably going to consider tile and stone for those spaces and that’s a good instinct. Read about the pros and cons of these durable flooring materials below. 

What are tile and stone floors made from?

Tile and stone are two different products achieving similar purposes in your home. Tile is usually made from either porcelain or ceramic and can even be fashioned out of stone. Stone flooring is typically laid in tiles, but the size and shape of those tiles can vary dramatically. All of these are natural materials. Stone floors tend to cost a bit more because they are created with materials harvested from the Earth and fashioned into shapes. Ceramic or porcelain tiles tend to be more affordable because they utilize synthetic materials. 

What are the pros of tile and stone flooring?

Natural stone floors made with stone tiles are an incredibly durable product. Because the material lives out in nature, it’s naturally water resistant. It also won’t crack or chip under the pressure of daily life. Marble tiles make a great kitchen flooring option because they’re so easy to keep clean and looking great. 

What are the cons of tile and stone?

Stone flooring can get scratched and pieces are hard to replace if something happens to the floor. Stone floors also represent a significant investment in your home. Ceramic or porcelain tile floors are easier on the budget, but have some of the same problems. These types of tiles can crack or chip, and finding the specific tile pattern again for a fix might be problematic if it’s been a while since you laid the flooring.   

How to choose between tile and stone

Stone floors are durable but do require a sealant over top once laid. This sealant will have to be reapplied at certain intervals during the life of the floor. Other than that, everyday maintenance is a breeze. Tiles used in flooring usually have a durable glaze over top of each tile making the application of a sealant unnecessary and the tile more easily cleaned than other flooring types. Choosing between them really comes down to your budget since each have their pros and cons for use in any room.