Porcelain vs Marble Tile: Differences Explained (With Pictures)
-
- Last updated:
When it comes to tile materials, there are quite a few options to choose from. But if you’re looking for something that is both beautiful and durable, then you may be wondering if porcelain tile or marble is the better choice for your home.
To help you choose the right tile material for your home, we’ve put together a quick guide comparing porcelain tile and marble.
We’ve also included the pros and cons of each material so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you. As you’ll soon discover, both porcelain tile and marble have a lot to offer.
Click Below to Jump Ahead:
Overview of Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile is a variety of ceramic tile that’s made from porcelain clay. It’s a denser and harder form of clay that’s fired at a higher temperature than other ceramic tile types. Moreover, porcelain tile isn’t nearly as porous as other types of ceramic tile, making it more stain-resistant and easier to keep clean.
How It Works
You can find porcelain tile in a wide selection of colors and styles, which makes it a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor use. It’s also durable and easy to clean, which makes it ideal for looking for a flooring option that requires minimal maintenance.
When to Choose
Porcelain tile is a great choice for any area of your home. However, it’s especially well-suited for high-traffic areas like entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms. And because it’s made for outdoors, as well, porcelain tile is also a good choice for patios and decks.
Other Factors to Consider
Porcelain tile is a bit more expensive than other types of tile, but it’s worth the investment because it’s so durable. Porcelain tile is also a good choice if you’re looking for a tile that’s versatile enough to be used in a variety of design styles.
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Available in a wide variety of colors and styles
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- More expensive than other types of tile
Overview of Marble Tile
Marble tile is a classic choice for flooring, countertops, and other home surfaces. It’s elegant and stylish yet durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. But marble is a natural material, so it’s important to understand its characteristics before making a purchase.
How It Works
As a porous material, marble is more absorbent than ceramic tile. That means it can stain more easily, so it requires more maintenance. Marble is also a softer stone, so it can scratch and chip more easily than harder materials like granite.
If you’re considering marble tile for your home, be sure to factor in the extra cost of sealing and polishing the stone on a regular basis.
When to Choose
Despite its drawbacks, marble tile has many advantages. It’s a luxurious material that adds value to your home. Marble is also heat-resistant, so it’s a good choice for kitchen countertops and backsplashes.
If you’re looking for an elegant, high-end look for your home, marble tile is an excellent choice. Just be prepared to invest the time and money necessary to keep it looking its best.
Other Factors to Consider
In addition to cost and maintenance, there are a few other factors to keep in mind when choosing flooring materials. Consider your lifestyle and the amount of foot traffic in your home. If you have pets or small children, for example, you’ll want to choose a material that’s more durable and easier to maintain.
You should also think about how easy the material is to install and repair. Some flooring materials, like laminate, can be installed by do-it-yourselfers. Others, like ceramic tile, require professional installation.
And finally, don’t forget about aesthetics. Flooring is a big investment, so you’ll want to choose a material that you love.
- Elegant and stylish
- Adds value to your home
- Heat resistant
- High maintenance
Porcelain Tile vs Marble: What Are the Differences?
When you’re trying to decide between porcelain tile and marble for your home, it’s important to understand the key differences between the two materials. Here are the most notable distinctions:
- Porcelain tile is manufactured, while marble is a natural stone.
- Porcelain tile is harder and more durable than marble.
- Porcelain tile is less likely to stain than marble.
- Marble is more susceptible to scratching and etching than porcelain tile.
- Marble typically costs more than porcelain tile.
So, which material is better for your home? Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and needs.
Which Is Right for You?
If you want a classic look with a luxurious feel, marble may be the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a durable and low-maintenance option, porcelain tile may be a better choice.
Still undecided? Talk to a tile expert at your local home improvement store for more information. They can help you compare the two materials and decide which one is right for your home.
- Modern look
- Easier to clean
- Cost-effective
- Durable and long-lasting
- Classic, timeless look
- High-end flooring
- Spare no expense
- Numerous color options
Conclusion
Porcelain tile and marble both have pros and cons that are worth considering. So what you ultimately decide on really comes down to your own personal preferences and which tile is better suited for your home.
If you want a classic and elegant look, then marble is the way to go. But if you’re looking for something more durable and easy to maintain, then porcelain tile would be a better option.
Whichever material you choose, make sure to hire a professional installer to ensure that your floors will look great for many years to come.
Featured Image Credit: (L) RYosha, Shutterstock | (R) Statuarietto White Marble (Image Credit: James St. John, Wikimedia Commons CC0 2.0 Generic
Contents
