The Pros & Cons of Ceramic Tile Flooring
Ceramic tiles have been a beautiful addition to homes and businesses for thousands of years. Did you know that archaeologists have discovered examples of stunning ceramic tilework from the doomed town of Pompeii? Moreover, these samples are still in pristine condition, despite being covered with molten lava in 79 AD!
It is an excellent choice for bathrooms and kitchens in particular because it is easy to clean and it is rated on a scale of 0 – 5 in terms of hardness. 0 -2 is ideal for wall tile, 3 is the right choice for residential use while 4 – 5 is perfect for commercial applications. At Ocotillo Flooring Services, we offer durable ceramic tiling, but we also believe in what’s best for our customers. Therefore, this post will focus on the pros and cons of ceramic tile flooring.
Ceramic Tile Flooring Pros
Water Resistance
This advantage relates to ‘glazed’ tiles. You can also purchase unglazed tiles which are ideal for high traffic areas because they show less wear and tear. However, glazed tiles are the best option for kitchens, bathrooms and other areas that are subject to high levels of humidity. A second firing in the kiln results in the ‘glazing’ process which ensures the tiles are resistant to water and stain penetration.
If you choose unglazed tiles, make sure you seal them to protect the surface from moisture. Pay special attention to the grout lines between the tiles as they are particularly vulnerable to moisture. If you fail to seal your unglazed tiles, the water can seep down, weaken the installation and result in the growth of mold.
Durability
Ceramic tiles are one of the toughest materials for a floor because they are extremely hard to crack. One we install ceramic tiling in your home, we expect it to last for between 10 and 20 years. In the event of a single tile becoming damaged due to an intense impact, such as the dropping a very heavy object, we can replace that tile quickly and easily without compromising the integrity of the rest of the flooring.
Easy Maintenance
Few residential flooring surfaces are easier to clean. As stains, dirt, and liquids simply ‘rest’ on the surface, all you have to do is mop or wipe them away at semi-regular intervals. You can maintain your ceramic tiling by vacuuming or sweeping it a couple of times a week. In the unlikely event that stains ‘stick into’ the tiles, you can use a heavy-duty cleaner without worrying about damaging the surface.
Low Cost
You can purchase ceramic tiling from $3 – $10 per square foot which means it is eminently affordable. While it is admittedly more expensive than carpet, it is easier to maintain, and it is less pricey than hardwood flooring. There is also a multitude of styles and types of tile to choose from.
Non-Toxic
As long as non-toxic grout is used, you have flooring that is ideal for individuals suffering from allergies. Like other types of flooring made from a hard and solid surface, ceramic tiles don’t attract dirt, pollen, dust or the other countless allergens that affect the lives of so many Americans. A quick wipe cleans the tiles and ensures the air is free from irritants that can cause problems for asthmatics.
Ceramic Tile Flooring Cons
Installation
To be frank, this is only an issue if you intend on installing the tiling yourself. Ceramic tiles are heavy and require specialist installation through the use of mortars, grouts, and expensive tools. If you plan on making it a DIY project, it will prove difficult, time-consuming, and costly.
If a ceramic tile floor is poorly installed, it can lead to all manner of issues down the line. For example, water can seep into loose tiles which increases the likelihood of mold growth, particularly in Arizona’s climate. The simple alternative is to hire one of our contractors. Our team is staffed by professionals who will install your tiles perfectly.
Weight
The durability of tiling comes with a price; the extreme weight of the material. As a result, it is not suitable for the upper levels of many residences as they might not be able to withstand the additional weight. If you elect to install ceramic tiling in an upstairs bathroom for instance, please contact a qualified professional to inspect the integrity of the structure and make sure the project is safe.
Lack of Insulation
If you’re looking for flooring that provides insulation, cork or carpet are better options. Ceramic has no insulation properties and does not dampen the sound in a room. You can navigate the problem through clever placement of rugs.
Surface Temperature
Ceramic does not hold on to heat well which means you will be walking on a cold and hard surface unless you have installed it on a heating system. To be fair, Arizona residents don’t tend to worry about the cold! Indeed, ceramic feels pleasant underfoot on a warm summer’s day.
Hardness
The toughness of ceramic flooring ensures it will last for years and also makes it easy to clean. However, it isn’t a good choice for areas where people will be forced to stand for extended periods of time. Also, you can’t soften a ceramic tile floor with padded underlayment.
Final Thoughts on Ceramic Tiling
Thanks to its durability, easy maintenance, affordability, and timeless appeal, ceramic tile flooring will always be a good option for homeowners in Arizona. As well as adding value to your property without breaking the bank, ceramic tiling offers a flooring solution that can last a lifetime.
We don’t recommend attempting DIY installation because it is a difficult and expensive process that will prove even more costly if you get it wrong. For that reason, we believe you should get in touch with us and let the experts do all the hard work. You can sit back, relax and admire the aesthetics of your brand new ceramic tile floor.