One of the most popular types of ceramic tile that is used in the world today is called porcelain tile. It is actually made from a very dense, yet extremely fine, type of clay that is created at a very high temperature.
It is going to be extremely resilient, resisting scratches, and is also very resistant to stains. This is why so many people will install this in their home in many different locations including the kitchen, bathroom, and even foyers.
Let’s look at the benefits of using porcelain tile in your home, as well as some of the drawbacks, so that you can have a fair perspective on whether or not this will be the right choice for you.
WHERE CAN YOU USE PORCELAIN TILE
Porcelain tile can be used in many different areas throughout your home without looking improperly placed. There are so many different types, you are able to mix-and-match to create unique expressions of your home decor, wherever it happens to be.
Not only is it used on the floor, but it is commonly used in kitchens, especially on counter tops. This is something that can be used in place of granite or quartz which can be much more expensive, yet provide the same expensive look.
They can also be used for bathrooms, especially as wall coverings. This is why you will see them on bathroom walls. Additionally, using this on your floors in the bathroom, pantry, and even the laundry room, will add that something extra special to your interior design.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PORCELAIN TILE
Some of the benefits include the fact that it comes in so many different colors and styles. Maintenance for porcelain tile is actually extremely minimal. It will not stain very easily, so if you happen to drop something on the floor, or spill coffee in the kitchen, you can simply wipe it up with a damp cloth and not worry about any possibility of stains.
It is recommended that you only use something as caustic as laundry detergent, as this is extremely mild. If something is damaged, the tiles are actually very easy to replace, making this a very cost-effective way to maintain your floors.
Another benefit of porcelain tile and other kinds of natural stone is the resistance to water damage repair in case of flooding. Whether it is from a burst pipe, cracked fittings or a failed water heater, tile is very durable and water resistant – but not waterproof.
As long as nothing physically cracks or breaks the tile, you can have water damage repair and restoration done to the flooded area and your tile will not have to be replaced. You WILL need to dry the tile and any grout completely to avoid complications in the future after there has been any flooding of a surface or room.
WHAT ARE THE DRAWBACKS TO PORCELAIN TILE?
The main drawback to installing porcelain tile in your home is that you are going to have to use grout. This is one of the reasons that people will go with laminate on the floor instead. It can be a very time-consuming process, making sure that the tile and grout are clean, even though the tile is so resistant to stains.
Many people will bring in professional tile and grout cleaners to spare themselves the agony of having to do this on their hands and knees, sometimes for hours, at what can be a very expensive price.
COORDINATE THE TILE WITH OTHER FLOORING IN YOUR HOME – AND MAINTAIN THEM PROPERLY
Almost all homes have several kinds of flooring, depending on the design and layout. When choosing tile for your home, make sure that it coordinates with whatever else you have in your home, whether that is hardwood floors, carpeting or other kinds of tile.
Although you want your home to look as nice as possible, you might want to consider some other type of flooring if you would prefer installing something that is easier to manage. However, if you don’t mind bringing a tile cleaning expert in from time to time to clean the grout in between your porcelain tiles, then this is definitely what you will want to have.
It is definitely a high end product, one that evokes the appearance of wealth and prosperity. If you would like to convey that image within your home, there is nothing better than using porcelain tile.