There are many flooring options, but ceramic tile is a popular choice, especially for kitchens and bathrooms. Ceramic tile should be high on your list of flooring choices because it has many benefits over other options.
Durability
One of the major benefits of ceramic tile is its durability over some other flooring options. Vinyl and laminate flooring are often chosen because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Unlike laminate flooring, ceramic tiles are not affected by moisture when properly sealed, making this type of flooring ideal for bathrooms or other high-traffic areas that may be exposed to moisture. Hardwood flooring is another popular option due to its durability. Although hardwood is durable, much like ceramic tile, there are some challenges in maintaining a hardwood floor. Hardwood floors may need regular upkeep to protect the wood from moisture. Additionally, hardwood is vulnerable to scratches and dents that may occur from moving furniture.
People who live in a household without air conditioning may not do well with hardwood, especially if their environment is also humid. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can adversely affect hardwood, causing it to swell and warp. This can quickly lead to cracks and ruin the integrity of the floor, requiring the floor to need replacing. Similar issues can happen with laminate or vinyl, which may cause the sheets to peel up or develop cracks. Ceramic tile does not have these vulnerabilities.
Design Options
The design options for ceramic tile are numerous, and ceramic tile can mimic other types of flooring that may be more expensive or not ideal for the specific room. Ceramic tiles exist that can mimic natural stone and wood. Mimicking the look of stone or wood can have several advantages. Both the materials and installation of stone tend to be expensive. It is also less durable than ceramic tile and may be damaged easily by moving furniture or dropping something on the floor. You also have to be careful about the stones you select because some options are porous, making them a bad choice for the bathroom and kitchen. Choosing ceramic tile designed to mimic hardwood allows you to have the aesthetic of wood without the upkeep and risk of damage. Beyond mimicking other materials, ceramic tiles come in numerous colors and can be installed in various patterns, such as diagonal, chevron, or staggered like bricks. More intricate designs might include floral or stained glass designs, adding visual interest to your floor.
Maintenance
One of the major factors that should influence your decision is the maintenance involved in flooring. Ceramic tiles are one of the easiest types of flooring to clean and maintain. When ceramic tiles are sealed, they repel water and are not vulnerable to staining. This makes cleaning the surface easy. You can simply sweep debris or use a damp cloth or mop for cleaning, unlike porous surfaces. There is no need for specialty products to clean your ceramic tile floor and keep it looking its best. The refinishing process during installation helps fill in grout lines so dirt or debris does not collect between the tiles, which adds to the ease of maintenance. Much like hardwood floors need to be refinished, you will likely need your ceramic tile floors resealed periodically. How often you need to have them resealed will depend on where the floor is located and whether the floor is in a high-traffic area. Generally, the moisture and humidity associated with the bathroom may require the floor to be resealed more often.
When you are on the fence about what flooring to install in a new home or as a remodeling project, you should give ceramic tiles serious consideration. There are significant benefits of ceramic tile over other options.