Marble Tiles Vs Porcelain Tiles: All you need to know

Choosing new flooring options this season? Most people choose between marble tiles and porcelain tiles. As an expert in the field, I will put both types of tiles head to head for you to decide the best one. First things first, these are the two most popular flooring options available. Second, both marble and porcelain tiles offer a wide array of colors and designs. Pricing and availability do not vary much so coming to a decision totally depend on your preferences. 

Read this blog till the end and you will be able to make the decision based on the comparisons we have made.  

Appearance 

Be it anything, appearance matters the most. Let's find out how these two types of tiles are different in terms of appearance. 

Marble Tiles

Being a natural stone extracted from open cast quarries, every tile has a unique look. Marble comes in a wide range of colors. From white to beige, grey, brown, blue or black. Marble veining is what makes it different from any other material in the world. Furthermore, marble is most commonly used in luxury hotels and high-end homes, thanks to its stunning appearance and a timeless look.

Porcelain Tiles 

Porcelain tiles, however, are produced from clay and come in a variety of colors and patterns. Also, porcelain tiles can have many different textures and patterns that make it look natural. Moreover, it can even look like hardwood but at a much lower cost and much higher durability. Since these tiles are manufactured, you can choose to have random or matched tiles depending on your preferences.   

Cost 

Renovating a home is an expensive process, so is its flooring. Having said that, you should be extra cautious about the cost as it can seriously affect your budget. 

Marble Tiles 

If compared, marble is more expensive but worth the money as it is a natural material and offers one of a kind timeless look. The per square foot cost can vary from $5 to $25 depending on the quality and type of marble. Also, the installation can cost about $5 to $15 per square foot taking the overall cost to $10 to $40. Another added cost here is the possible breakage of tiles, you should buy 10 to 20 % extra to be safe with the quantity needed.  

Porcelain Tiles 

Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, cost slightly lesser in comparison. A $3 to $10 per square foot for the tiles and $5 to $10 per square foot for the installation. The average overall cost per square foot can vary from $8 to $20. 

Maintenance 

Just like your home, the flooring also requires maintenance but it varies depending on the type of tiles used. 

Marble Tiles 

Firstly, marble tiles or mosaics must be installed by a professional and sealed after installation. Secondly, these tiles should be resealed twice or at least once every year to achieve long life. 

Porcelain Tiles 

In comparison, Porcelain does not require a lot of maintenance. Furthermore, Porcelain tiles can easily be cut down to customized sizes and installed by an expert. Maintaining porcelain is easy as it comparatively stains lesser and has fewer chances of damage. 

Functionality 

Marble tiles and Porcelain tiles can both be used in floors or on walls. Both types of tiles are durable but since its natural characteristics, marble is mostly preferred indoor. On the other hand, porcelain is also used outdoors. 

Resale value 

Marble Tiles being natural and luxurious can keep the resale value higher. Whereas, Porcelain tiles do not really have an impact on the resale value compared to marble products.

Pros and Cons 

Marble Tiles 

Pros 

• Looks elegant, timeless and luxurious 
• Increases the resale value
• Natural stone, adds value to a home 
• Easy to polish 
• Suitable for Radiant Floor Heating 

Cons 

• Requires sealing 
• Brittle and requires professional installation  
• Expensive 
• Stays cold  

Porcelain Tiles 

Pros 

• Low Maintenance charges
• Long life 
• Durable and easy to clean 
• Offered in a lot of styles 

Cons

• Heavier and expensive 
• Difficult to repair 
• No impact on resale 

Conclusion 

Both types of tiles are easily available that too in a wide range of colors and styles. Marble tiles look better and add value, whereas porcelain tiles are durable and can be used in both interiors and exteriors. Marble may feel expensive in comparison but it will really add a lot of value to your home. So, keep all these points in mind before coming to a decision. 

Our store offers a wide variety of both marble and porcelain products. Check out both links to see our great tile and mosaic selections for porcelain and marble products.

https://tileandmosaicdepot.com/collections/porcelain-tile

https://tileandmosaicdepot.com/collections/natural-stone-tile