Natural Stone vs. Ceramic Tiles

Natural Stone vs. Ceramic Tiles: Which is Better?

Well, natural stone and ceramic tiles have been the most commonly used materials for countertops, backsplashes, flooring, and even bathroom showers. Each of them boasts unique characteristics, advantages, and challenges thus making a choice determined by several aspects like aesthetics, durability, maintenance, and budget. Now, let’s discuss natural stone vs. ceramic tiles, which one is better for your next renovation?

What Are Ceramic Tiles?

This is because ceramic tiles, like porcelain, are one popular material that homeowners would want for the simple reason that they could be budget-friendly and versatile. Within Ceramics at Face-Impex, there is a huge variety of types, for instance, 245x450MM with a 9MM thickness and finishes from Elevations, Glossy, to Matt. Ceramic tiles are produced via kiln-firing processes coming from pure clay and feldspar with other minerals. Since the product is man-made, they could provide consistency in size, colour, and pattern, so that buying a large variety of it is not a condition.

Ceramic tiles have the highest applicability in interiors and where the foot traffic is average. For example, Face-impex’s 300x600MM Glossy finish tile offers a smooth, reflective surface that cleans very easily for walls in the bathroom and the kitchen. Matt finish from Face-Impex comes in sizes of 245×450 MM and is best used where one does not like the look to be too high profile.

Advantages of Natural Stone

Beauty: When it comes to beauty, natural stone cannot be beaten. The various colour, veining, and texture combinations add up to become very luxurious items for anyone who seeks to upgrade the aesthetic appeal of your house. Nothing else compares to the natural beauty of a marble countertop or a slate floor.

Durability: Natural stone, especially granite and quartzite, can be very durable and able to withstand foot traffic and daily wear and tear, which would easily be found in high-traffic areas such as hallways and kitchens. It would make a good choice for entryways and outdoor spaces. Slate and granite are the most recommended choices for that type of area.

Higher resale value: properties that are installed with natural stones have a higher market value because they provide a premium look and durability of the material. It is costlier upfront compared to ceramic, but long term, it could pay better resale value.

Resistance to Heat: Natural stones, including granite, are very resistant to heat, and that is one of the biggest reasons why people get granite for countertops in kitchens. An unsealed granite won’t care about a hot pot or pan, while an untreated ceramic tile may get ruined by it. Ceramic tiles can’t compete with the rugged qualities of granite.

Challenges of Natural Stone

But natural stone also has its peculiar problems. The first and foremost in this list of problems is the price factor. Natural stone is much more expensive than ceramic tiles, in terms of material and installation costs. Also, there is greater maintenance with natural stone, especially with porous types like marble and limestone, which have to be sealed periodically to avoid stains and moisture damage.

It can also have an unbalanced surface texture. While some might find the natural look and touch of stone ideal, its inconsistency makes cleaning and maintenance more challenging. It could also present a “busy” effect that in a bigger space may not be everyone’s cup of coffee.

The Bottom Line

The choice between Natural Stone vs. Ceramic Tiles does not have an all-inclusive answer because they both have merits and drawbacks and will be the best according to what suits your needs, preferences, and budget. Ceramic tiles, for example, are available from Face-Impex in sizes 245X450MM or 300X600MM to promote affordability, maintenance-practicality, and versatility, making ceramic tiles the best choice to suit anyone’s desire for a budget-friendly choice without forgoing style.

Ultimately, your choice between Natural Stone vs. Ceramic Tiles will be aesthetically driven, but functionality, maintenance requirements, and timelines for the material’s lifespan should all play a significant role. Either natural stone or high-quality ceramics available at Face-Impex can transform your house into a beautiful yet practical space.