Top floor designs invariably include porcelain tiles. Though porcelain tiles are a very popular and common flooring option, there are also certain disadvantages of porcelain tiles. We’ll see more about porcelain tiles’ pros and cons later, but we will also have a look at DIY floor hacks and eco-friendly flooring options. Floors are an integral part of any household and deserve as much care as the rest of the house. Our brief guide will give you a basic outline of porcelain flooring, it’s alternatives, and what is good and bad about it.
Porcelain Tiles Alternatives
Homeowners usually swap carpet for porcelain after the carpet becomes old and grimy, and an abode for dog danders, allergens, food particles, etc. The convenience and durability of porcelain tiles make it a very popular choice. Whether you are looking for porcelain tiles for the bathroom or the living room, chances are, you’ll find something desirable.
If you are looking for all the advantages that porcelain offers, but with a touch of uniqueness, you can choose from among the alternatives.
Cork tile
Cork has its advantages over porcelain.
Cork flooring does not echo sound the way porcelain does
Cork has a warm underfoot feeling. This is especially useful if you live in cold climate areas.
Cork is eco-friendly. It is made up of the bark of cork oak trees. The bark grows back naturally and the tree is not harmed. The trees can also be harvested every nine years, making it sustainable.
Glass tiles
Glass tiles are made up of recycled glass bottles, and thus, are an eco-friendly option.
Glass tiles are not affected by moisture and water. This makes them perfect for bathroom use.
They come in several colors and styles to suit your choice.
Glass makes small areas appear bigger since they reflect light.
Concrete tiles
If you like the industrial look, plain gray concrete tiles are your best option. If you prefer more designs and textures, concrete tiles give you that option as well.
They are very durable and rarely need replacement.
They are sometimes made up of recycled materials, which makes it an eco-friendlier choice than certain other materials.
Pros and cons of porcelain tiles
Let’s look at the pros of porcelain tiles first.
They are available in a huge range of styles and designs.
Porcelain is a very durable material that will last you years.
It is a water-resistant and stain-resistant material.
Porcelain is extremely easy to maintain and take care of
Now, let’s look at the cons of porcelain.
Porcelain can be more expensive than other flooring options.
They weigh a lot and are also very brittle.
The installation process can be very difficult and requires professional help.
The grout requires sealing to ensure durability.
Now that you know a thing or thing or two about porcelain and its alternatives, go ahead for your search towards the perfect flooring material for your space.
