Natural vs. Ceramic Tile

Tile is one of the best and most popular materials used in residential bathrooms. Whether it’s a backsplash, shower or floor, tile provides many benefits and can make your room look beautiful. When looking to start a tile project in your home, you will notice that there are two types of tile; natural and ceramic. Both of these tile materials provide different benefits, yet act the same. 

At GMS Werks, we are partnered with exceptional tile providers, including MIR Mosaics, Cosa Marble Co, MSI Surfaces, Arizona Tile and Soci Inc ! Our team has installed tile in many homes and businesses, and understand that homeowners want the best stone for their bathroom.  In this blog, we will discuss the differences between natural stone tile and ceramic tile to help you get started with your next tile project!

Natural stone tile

Stone tiles are primarily used for floors, walls and backsplashes throughout your home. Marble, granite, limestone, slate and travertine are some of the most popular stone tile materials that homeowners are adding to their homes. Stone tile comes with luxury and can increase the value of your home. Lastly, stone tile can be used both inside and outside your home!

Ceramic tile

Ceramic tile on the other hand is a man-made material that is made with hardened clay. Ceramic tile is suitable for both wet and dry locations. Whether it’s in your shower, bathroom or kitchen, ceramic tile offers a variety of benefits. 

Maintenance

Stone tile is a porous material, which means it needs a sealant to make it water and stain-resistant. This sealant needs to be applied periodically to ensure the best upkeep of your stone tiles. Also, when cleaning your stone tiles, be sure to stay away from acidic cleaners which can damage your tiles

Ceramic tile on the other hand is a non-porous material that does not require any coatings, although sealant may be necessary if you are worried about staining. However, ceramic tiles can handle most cleaning products and are quite easy to maintain. 

Colors and design

With stone tile, you are limited to the variety of color and design options to choose from. However, natural tile comes from natural stone, which aretruly beautiful materials. Depending on what type of stone you choose for your tile, you will still be able to choose between a variety of colors, shapes and styles to compliment your interior design. 

Ceramic tiles on the other hand come in a great variety of designs and colors. As ceramic tile is man-made, it can be produced to fit any style of home. Ceramic tile can even be made to resemble the looks of wood or natural stone. 

Price

Since natural tile comes from natural stone, it’s inevitably the more expensive tile choice. Although, the luxurious look that natural tile provides makes the extra cost worth it if your budget is allowing. 

Ceramic tile is definitely the cheaper option when it comes to a new tile. Depending on the style, size and finish, you can make your tile project pretty affordable by going with ceramic tile. 
 

When it comes to the best stone for a bathroom, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences. Both natural and ceramic tile offers a variety of benefits in which homeowners cannot go wrong. When choosing the best stone for your bathroom, consider these benefits!

At GMS Werks, we provide the highest quality of natural stone. Whether it’s a tile backsplash or a new bathroom vanity, our natural stone products will help you complete your next home project! Visit our website today to learn more about our products and services!