01 Aug Pros and Cons of Tile Flooring

Porcelain tile flooring is becoming more popular among home and business owners as they discover the advantages. However, there are also some drawbacks that individuals need to consider before committing to the installation of tile.

Pros

Three of the primary characteristics of tile is its elegance, aesthetics, and it will add value to any home or business. It’s also highly durable, which makes it ideal for high-traffic areas. If for some reason a tile does crack, it’s easy to replace it without the need to take up the entire floor. Another attractive quality is that porcelain tile is fireproof.

It’s extremely easy to maintain. Tile aids in maintaining a better level of air quality. It can be kept clean by using a broom or vacuum with a soft brush. Porcelain tile is also stain and water-resistant. It’s a good solution for areas that are subject to spills and humid conditions such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and entryways.

Porcelain tile is also scratch-resistant. Tile doesn’t attract or harbor dust, dirt and allergens, so it’s beneficial for anyone that suffers with allergies or respiratory conditions. It’s available in multiple colors, textures, patterns and tile sizes. Tile is available that emulates the look of hardwoods, slate, marble and granite.

Cons

Tile can be more expensive than other types of materials. It’s also cold. It won’t be comfortable for children playing on the floor and pets will need a bed or thick rug to sleep on. The flooring is also slippery and can present a potential for falls.

The flooring has a level of stain and moisture resistance on it own, but unglazed tile will have to be sealed. Grout is used between the tiles and it can be difficult to keep in a pristine condition. Don’t plan on installing tile on any floor but ground level. It’s very heavy and most structures don’t have the necessary reinforcement to handle the weight.