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Whether you’re designing a kitchen or a bathroom, one thing that you’ll need to think about for both of these areas is the type of tiles you’d like to install. It isn’t an easy choice either, as there are loads to choose from, and both marble tiles and ceramic tiles are among the most popular.
But why is this, and what are the differences between the two? Below, you’ll find a definitive guide to marble tiles vs ceramic tiles, with a clear explanation of the benefits and disadvantages of both, along with which is best for your needs.
Let’s start by taking a quick look at the key difference between marble tiles and ceramic tiles, focusing on the things you’ll need to think about most when making your decision.
Marble tiles are made from natural stone, and they are created by cutting down huge slabs of marble pulled from quarries. The tiles are then smoothed down to get rid of the rough edges.
Ceramic tiles are made by forming natural clay into shape using a mould. These are then fired at high temperatures and then glazed, coloured, and patterned.
Marble tiles are extremely durable compared to ceramic tiles and are also suitable for outdoor use.
Ceramic tiles have a good level of durability, but compared to marble tiles, they are much weaker and can be prone to cracking, especially when exposed to the elements. As such, ceramic tiles are not suitable for outdoor use.
Thanks to their natural stone composition and extreme durability, marble tiles can last up to 100 years when cared for properly.
Compared to marble tiles, ceramic tiles have a shorter lifespan of around 75 years when properly maintained.
Marble tiles are one of the most expensive types of tile available, so they aren’t a good choice if you’re trying to stick to a smaller budget.
Ceramic tiles are extremely budget-friendly and are among the least expensive options when looking at materials. This not only makes them a good choice for those trying to limit their spending but also makes them a better choice for covering a large space without breaking the bank.
In most cases, you won’t be able to cut and shape marble tiles yourself as they are so dense. A wet saw and diamond-encrusted blade will be needed to cut marble tiles, and you’ll likely need professional help for this.
It is very easy to cut ceramic tiles using a simple tile cutter, which makes them a good choice for DIY projects and for fitting into an awkward space.
Marble tiles have a very low water absorption rate, which makes them suitable for use in wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, as well as outdoor use.
Ceramic tiles absorb more water than marble tiles, and while they are still suitable for use in wet areas, prolonged exposure to water can lead to cracking. This is why they’re unsuitable for outdoor use.
Although relatively easily cleaned, marble tiles do need to be sealed and polished regularly using specialist products to keep them from getting damaged.
Ceramic tiles are very easy to clean using basic cleaning solutions, and they don’t need regular sealing like marble tiles.
Marble tiles make very good flooring options, as they have the strength and durability to create high traffic floors without the risk of cracking. They also make a good choice for outdoor kitchen areas or if you’d like to link your kitchen interior to your outdoor space through patio flooring.
Ceramic tiles are best used for walls in kitchens and bathrooms, as they are easy to clean and durable enough to handle daily wear and tear. They’re also a very good option if you’re tiling an awkward space, as they are easy to cut without the need for professional help.
One of the biggest benefits offered by marble tiles is their durability. This makes them a very good choice for flooring, where constant foot traffic and heavy loads are unlikely to cause cracking or other damage. Of course, every material has its limits, but when it comes to marble tiles vs ceramic tiles, marble tiles are the clear winner in terms of durability.
Marble tiles also have a lower water absorption rate compared to ceramic tiles, which makes them less prone to cracking and stains over time in areas that are regularly wet and also makes them suitable for outdoor use.
There’s also a unique beauty offered by the natural stone marble tiles are made from, with interesting patterns in each tile that don’t repeat. This makes them a good choice if you’re looking for something “one of a kind” or want to create a beautiful, natural-looking focal point.
Perhaps the biggest disadvantage of marble is how expensive it is, especially compared to ceramic tiles. This makes it pretty much a no-go for people trying to work within a low budget, especially if you’re trying to cover a particularly large space.
Marble tiles aren’t easy to lay or cut without professional help either, and when you factor in the cost of this along with the price of the tiles themselves, the overall expense goes up even more.
You also have a limited selection of styles with marble tiles, and while there’s no denying their natural beauty, you won’t be able to find marble tiles in different colours or uniform patterns.
Marble tiles are a really good choice for flooring, and they’re also excellent at linking two spaces together – particularly a kitchen through to a patio. They’re also a great choice if you want a natural stone look in your home with marbling patterns that are unique to you.
A huge benefit that ceramic tiles have is that they are available in a huge variety of colours and patterns, meaning that you’re almost guaranteed to find something that suits your design theme. Whether you’re going for natural, warm tones or you want pops of bold colours, you’ll find either in a ceramic tile.
Ceramic tiles are also a much better choice for those attempting to tile a space themselves, as they are easy to lay and easy to cut with a basic tile cutter. This, along with their general inexpensiveness, makes them a budget-friendly option, too.
Ongoing cleaning and maintenance is easier with ceramic tiles than marble tiles, as well, as you won’t need to worry about regular sealing or specialist cleaning solutions. Instead, some warm water and general bleach-free cleaner is all you need to keep them looking good.
Compared to marble tiles, ceramic tiles are less durable and are more prone to cracking and stains over time. This makes them a better choice of wall tile rather than flooring, as they may not be able to cope with heavy foot traffic very well.
Ceramic tiles also have a higher water absorption rate than marble tiles, which makes them unsuitable for outdoor use.
Ceramic tiles are best for those who are looking to use a range of colours or uniform patterns on their bathroom or kitchen walls. They are also a much better choice for people trying to limit their spending, as they are a lot more budget-friendly than marble tiles (and most other tiles, for that matter).
In the battle of marble tiles vs ceramic tiles, each has its own winning points. Marble is a lot more durable, which makes it a better choice for flooring, while ceramic tiles are less expensive and come in a wider range of colours. With this in mind, the best thing to do is think about what you’re trying to achieve within your space. Those looking for natural beauty or wanting to link spaces through flooring would be better off with marble tiles. Or, if you’re creating a vibrant space filled with colour, ceramic tiles would be the best option.
