Granite vs. Ceramic Tiles: What’s the Difference?

Whether revamping your bathroom or changing the floor in your kitchen, tiles are the perfect choice for the purpose. They are versatile, durable, long-lasting and the most suitable flooring solution for residential and commercial spaces. Regardless of the places you want to apply tiles, it is important for you to be aware of the different types available on the market.

They come in a large selection of materials, colours, shades and patterns, allowing you to pick just the right ones for your needs. Speaking of materials, out of all the types available on the market, granite and ceramic tiles are considered the most commonly used of them all.

What Is a Granite Tile?

The name says it all right, granite tiles are natural and highly durable tiles that have unique patterns. Natural granite tiles are basically stone directly derived from the earth. Being natural stone tiles explains the fact that they will stand the test of time. Their timeless beauty can be easily matched with any style and décor. To further add to their beauty, they have a unique pattern which is a result of the slow magma crystallization that occurs beneath the earth.

Knowing this, you should be aware of the fact that two stone tiles of this kind can’t be the same. These tiles are also known for their immense strength and durability which explains the fact that they are resistant to scratches and heat, making them the ideal choice for high-traffic areas. They also make the ideal option for being used as kitchen and bathroom countertops.

What Is a Ceramic Tile?

Ceramic tiles are made from clay which is hardened with the help of heat for improved use and durability. Quite often, these tiles have a decorative glaze and are designed to resemble anything from natural stones to wood. Being man-made, these tiles are available in an extensive selection of sizes, shapes, colours and designs, giving you the freedom to pick just the right models.

Just like granite, these tiles can also be used for bathroom and kitchen applications. Ceramic tiles come in a selection of thicknesses and finishes which explains their different application. Knowing this explains the fact that you should be extremely careful when choosing ceramic tiles, especially for floor application as not all of them can withstand daily use, especially in high-traffic areas.

Comparing Their Features

Appearance

If you are more into adding colour, pattern and particular style to your bathroom, then you should certainly consider the idea of choosing ceramic tiles. However, if you aren’t into adding anything spectacular and colourful, but if you’re more after something simpler, more unique, more functional and sturdier, then you should certainly invest in granite.

Made from natural stones, these tiles are all about having their unique design. So if you want to stand out from the crowd, and be unique while not compromising on the tile’s durability and longevity, then you should certainly give the investing in granite tiles flooring solutions a thought.

Strength

When it comes to comparing their strength, granite flooring solutions are the winner. Being a natural stone makes them extremely durable, strong and resistant to impact and friction. Unfortunately, the strength of ceramic tiles simply cannot be compared to the one of granite, so if strength and unique design are what you are looking for, then investing in these natural stone tiles is what you need.

Maintenance

Given the fact that this is a natural material we’re talking about, granite flooring tiles are porous and they need to be sealed every 2 – 4 years to prevent staining. Ceramic tiles, on the other hand, are easier to maintain, and they only need regular cleaning to stay in good shape.

Installation

Granite installation requires more knowledge and expertise as the tiles are heavier on their own and require special approach and adhesive in order to be applied. Depending on the application, sometimes they might need to be installed with the help of both specialists and special machines because of their weight. They need precision cutting due to their weight so professional handling is very much needed.

This makes their installation costlier than installing ceramic tiles. The ceramic tile installation, on the other hand, is much easier to be done, because this type of tiles is lighter and easier to cut. They have a less demanding installation which explains their cost-effectiveness.

To Wrap Up

Speaking in terms of uniqueness, durability, strength and longevity, granite floor tiles are winners in every category. Without a doubt, they are a flooring solution that can last you a lifetime without showing signs of wear and tear. However, if you are looking for more cost-effective solution then you should consider the idea of installing ceramic tiles. But, if you like the idea of having both, you can always combine them and use granite as flooring solution and ceramic as wall solution for instance.