What is the Most Durable Type of Tile Flooring?

Experts go back and forth on this one. Some believe high-strength concrete floors last the longest, while others believe solid-body porcelain tiles are the champion of toughness when it comes to homeowner flooring. Both can last a lifetime.

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Some brave trendsetters are willing to go with poured concrete floors in their homes. However, this choice is not for the faint of heart. Installation is a big, messy process, and it&#;s pretty much permanent. Concrete inside your home is also not maintenance-free. For the sake of this article, we&#;re going to focus on non-concrete options.

 

Ceramic Tile Flooring: Glazed Ceramic, Porcelain, Terracotta, And Quarry Tiles

All four &#; unglazed ceramic, porcelain, terracotta, and quarry tiles are considered ceramic tiles, but they can be very different in look, texture, and performance.

 

 

Terracotta Tiles:

Terracotta means &#;cooked earth.&#; These tiles are often ½ an inch or more in thickness. The color comes from the natural clays used to produce them, and the color is uniform all the way through. This means that if you get a chip in the surface or a corner of the tile, the deep rich red color will be identical to the surface.

These tiles readily absorb water and other liquids. They wear down easily in high-traffic areas, and this is considered part of their appeal. Generally speaking, these tiles are less expensive than other forms of ceramic tile flooring. When installed, these tiles have very wide grout lines that can be prone to staining if not sealed during installation.

 

This can be a little confusing. Quarry tiles look very similar to terracotta tiles. The deep, rich reddish brown is practically the same, but that&#;s where the similarity ends. Quarry tiles are harder than terracotta tiles, and they are impervious to water and other liquids. They are fired at higher temperatures than terracotta, and this makes them tougher.

Although some clay is used, other minerals like shale, granite, and feldspar are finely ground and mixed together, then baked at high temperatures. They are a durable flooring option, and they can be used indoors and outdoors. Typically entrance ways, kitchens, and mud rooms are good candidates for quarry tiles.

 

Glazed Ceramic Tiles:

Through many decades, glazed ceramic tiles have remained one of the most popular types of flooring. One of the reasons is that their durability is unparalleled. However, when it&#;s time to choose a glazed ceramic tile for your project, it&#;s a good practice to double-check the specifications indicated on the packaging.

For example, some high-quality tiles are not recommended for outdoor use in areas where freezing temperatures are common, while other ceramic tiles are too smooth and too slippery for wet conditions. Picking the right kind of tile can be complicated, so it&#;s always a good idea to ask a flooring expert. One of the best features of glazed ceramic tiles is the almost unlimited variety of colors and patterns available.

This vast array is made possible by how glazed ceramic tiles are produced. Glazed ceramic tiles are fired in a kiln at extreme temperatures until a glass-like top layer is formed. This glass-like surface (also known as a glaze) protects the patterns and colors of the tile. This glaze also makes the tiles impervious to water, and easy to clean.

 

 

Porcelain Tiles:

These come either glazed or full-body. Almost always, these tiles are made in a very similar manner to ceramic tiles, but the materials used are of higher quality, and they are fired at higher temperatures. Generally, this can make them more expensive, but it depends on the popularity of the look and color.

Full-body porcelain tiles are extremely durable, and they do not have a top glaze. Their color palette is limited to the natural color of the higher-quality clays and minerals used to create them. As with terracotta tiles, full-body porcelain tiles are uniform all the way through. In the unlikelihood of damage or scratches, the color revealed in the scratch will be exactly the same as the color on the surface.

 

Subway Tiles, Mosaic Tiles, And Large Format Field Tiles

Just about anything goes when it comes to the size and shape of tiles. Subway tiles used to be white, and the most common size was 3 inches by 6 inches. Today, this familiar format and running brick installation are complemented with all sorts of colors and materials, including glass and mirrors.

Even the installation patterns are now more varied. Running bond, 90-degree herringbone, 45-degree herringbone, basket weave, and stack bond are just a few of them. These patterns create plenty of visual interest even with plain, uniformly colored tiles.

 

Natural Stone Tiles

In the last few years, the industry has introduced a wide variety of natural stone tiles. Marble, exotic granite, and travertine tiles are now available in more colors, textures, and finishes than ever before. What used to be limited to kitchen backsplash tiles and kitchen countertops are now being used as bold accents and complete floors in other parts of the home.

 

Wood Look Tile

One of the most interesting developments in the last few years is the introduction of wood-like ceramic tiles. When they were first launched, they sort of kind of looked like solid hardwood floors.

After some impressive refinements in both the look of the tile and the new approach to grout lines as part of the installation, the upper end of these tiles is practically indistinguishable from a solid wood floor. You have to get down on the floor for a close look and feel to be able to tell the difference. This is one of the most exciting flooring trends in recent years.

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Are you interested in learning more about steel floor tile manufacturer? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

 

Last But Not Least, Resilient Flooring

High-quality LVT (waterproof flooring) and linoleum are favorites among homeowners who are looking for a durable and budget-friendly flooring option. With normal use, the wear layer and sturdy construction of these floors can last well over 20 years. Ultimately, ceramic tiles and natural stone may last longer, but when it comes to lower installation costs and a lower per-square-foot price of material, this might be the right option for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dan Ratcliff

Dan Ratcliff is the CEO and President of Flooring Direct in Dallas / Fort Worth. Over the last two decades, he has grown Flooring Direct into a premier Shop-at-Home traditional & hardwood flooring company. With a true dedication to customer service and integrity, Flooring Direct has become DFW's largest highest-rated Dallas-local flooring dealer. Dan has lived in Dallas all of his life and was raised in Dallas with family roots and love for the community and local sports. It's with that sense of family that Flooring Direct has contributed to and sponsored children's organizations like Jonathan's Place and scholastic athletics like Plano's Girls Soccer.

When it comes to kitchen flooring, durability is a crucial factor to consider. The kitchen is a high-traffic area that experiences constant wear and tear. To ensure that your kitchen flooring can withstand the demands of this busy space, you need a material that is both durable and resistant to heat, moisture, stains, and impact damage. Here are some of the most durable tile flooring options for your kitchen:

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is a popular choice for kitchen flooring due to its exceptional durability. Made from natural clay that is shaped, coated, and baked at high temperatures, ceramic tiles are long-lasting, stain-resistant, and water-resistant. With proper care, ceramic tiles can maintain their appearance and functionality for many years. They come in a wide range of colours, shapes, and sizes, allowing for various design options. Additionally, ceramic tiles can mimic the look of other materials, such as stone or wood, providing versatility in terms of aesthetics.

Moreover, ceramic tiles offer ease of maintenance, requiring simple sweeping and occasional mopping to keep them clean. Their durability and resistance to wear make them ideal for high-traffic areas like the kitchen. Whether you prefer a classic or modern look, ceramic tiles provide a timeless and practical flooring solution that can enhance the beauty and functionality of your kitchen for years to come.

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tile is another excellent option for kitchen flooring. It is similar to ceramic tile but is denser and more resistant to water absorption. They are also highly stain-resistant, making them ideal for kitchen use where spills and stains are common. Porcelain tiles come in various finishes and designs, including options that resemble natural stone or wood.

Additionally, porcelain tiles are known for their versatility, as they can be used both indoors and outdoors, making them a suitable choice for kitchen floors that extend to outdoor areas. Their dense composition also makes them highly resistant to scratches and chipping, ensuring long-lasting durability. With their wide range of styles and superior performance, porcelain tiles are a popular and reliable option for durable kitchen flooring.

Concrete Tile

Concrete tile is a durable and long-lasting option, although it may not be suitable for all homes. If you have a kitchen on the ground floor and don&#;t have a basement, concrete tile can be an option. While concrete is cost-effective, its porous nature requires proper sealing to protect it from stains and water damage. Concrete floors can be polished, stained, or transformed to create a low-maintenance and stylish look, making them suitable for modern kitchens. However, it&#;s worth noting that the distinctive appearance of concrete flooring may not appeal to everyone.

Furthermore, concrete tile provides excellent heat resistance, making it a practical choice for kitchens where cooking and hot appliances are common. It is a versatile material that can be customized with various finishes and designs to match your desired aesthetic. While it may feel chilly and hard underfoot, the durability and unique charm of concrete tile make it a viable option for those seeking a long-lasting and contemporary kitchen flooring solution.

Natural Stone Tile

Natural stones, such as granite, limestone, marble, slate, and sandstone, can add elegance and durability to your kitchen flooring. Each type of stone has its own unique characteristics in terms of hardness, scratch resistance, and durability. Granite, for example, is known for its long-term durability when properly sealed and maintained. On the other hand, marble offers an elegant veined look but requires more maintenance due to its susceptibility to scratches and discoloration. Natural stone tiles offer a timeless and sophisticated appearance, making them desirable for homeowners looking for a high-end aesthetic.

While natural stone tiles provide a luxurious and visually appealing option for kitchen flooring, it&#;s important to note that they are porous materials and require regular sealing to protect against stains and water damage. With proper care, natural stone tiles can withstand the demands of a busy kitchen and offer long-lasting beauty that adds value to your home.

Bamboo

Bamboo flooring is gaining popularity due to its durability and moisture resistance. It provides the look and feel of hardwood while offering better performance in humid environments. Bamboo is created by compressing and weaving pulped bamboo fibres, resulting in a dense and durable material. It is an excellent choice for kitchens where moisture resistance is a concern. However, it&#;s important to note that the colour, grain, and pattern of bamboo flooring can vary, providing a range of visual impacts.

In addition to its durability and moisture resistance, bamboo flooring is also a sustainable option, as bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable resource. Its natural beauty and variety of grain patterns make it a versatile choice for different kitchen styles. With proper maintenance and periodic refinishing, bamboo flooring can maintain its appearance and structural integrity for many years, making it a reliable and eco-friendly option for kitchen flooring.

Brick

Though not commonly used in kitchens, brick flooring is a durable and long-lasting option that has been utilized for many years. Brick provides an industrial vibe and can withstand heat, impact damage, and abrasion. Regular sealing is necessary to prevent stains and water damage. Brick flooring offers a unique and rugged look for those seeking a distinctive style. However, it&#;s important to consider that brick is a porous material, so sealing must be done regularly to protect it from moisture and staining.

Despite its less common usage in kitchens, brick flooring offers a lasting and robust option with its ability to withstand heavy use. It&#;s rustic charm and industrial aesthetic can add a unique character to your kitchen space. With proper sealing and maintenance, brick flooring can provide durability and a distinctive look that sets your kitchen apart.

Wrapping Up

When selecting a durable flooring option for your kitchen, it&#;s essential to consider factors such as durability, moisture resistance, maintenance requirements, and the desired aesthetic. To ensure a successful kitchen renovation and explore various home renovation services, consider reaching out to Kettle Contracting. Their team of experts can assist you in choosing and installing the perfect flooring for your kitchen and provide a wide range of home renovation services to meet your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What sort of kitchen flooring is the easiest to maintain?

A: Vinyl flooring is widely recognized as the easiest material to maintain. It is resistant to stains and water and does not have pores that can trap dirt or grime. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping is usually sufficient to keep vinyl floors clean and in good condition.

Q: Which type of flooring is the most moisture-resistant?

A: For families prone to spills or kitchens with high moisture levels, vinyl flooring is an excellent choice. Vinyl is highly resistant to water and moisture, making it a durable and practical flooring option. However, if maximum water resistance is the primary concern, ceramic tile is considered the most water-resistant material due to its non-porous nature.

Q: Which carpet hue shows the least dirt?

A: Light grey or light brown flooring is generally better at concealing dirt and dust compared to brighter white flooring. While dust is more visible on dark-coloured floors, it tends to show up more noticeably on bright, white flooring. Therefore, opting for a lighter hue can help minimize the appearance of dirt and dust between cleanings.

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