The battle between porcelain and marble tile rages on and many new homeowners are at a loss as to which side they should join. This battle has arisen for three main reasons:

1. Homeowners are not sure what the difference is between the two tile choices.
2. Homeowners are unaware of the upkeep that is needed for the different types of tile.
3. Homeowners do not know which type of tile is appropriate for his or her lifestyle.

Instead of pushing consumers toward one type of tile or another, we as professionals simply need to provide the information they need to make an informed decision. Here are a few of the key factors consumers need to know when deciding which side to take in the battle of porcelain vs. marble.

Porcelain

Positive aspects:

Porcelain today has come a long way and there is porcelain out there for the right price that looks very much like marble or other natural stones.

Porcelain tiles are extremely strong and dense. The weight of porcelain tile can tell you quite a bit about their level of quality. Porcelain tile is frost resistant and it is highly resistant to stains, scratches and moisture.

Porcelain tiles do not chip easily. They are also hard wearing, meaning it is resistant to harsh cleaning products, stains and fading. Porcelain tile is very easy to clean and it can last for a very long time.

Negative aspects:

Porcelain tiles are very cold and hard, and some health experts believe that walking on such cold hard floors can cause unnecessary stress to the joints. Also, certain types of porcelain tile can be harder to clean than marble depending on if the texture is rough or smooth.

Another issue can arise in the event that a tile chips. Ironically, it may be easier to repair a natural stone like marble as opposed to porcelain, which will generally needs to be replaced.

Marble

Positive aspects:

Real marble tiles are truly magnificent to look at, they are beautiful and they are always unique. You will never find two marble surfaces that look exactly the same. Marble gives the sense of grandeur wherever it is laid and is also heavier than porcelain.

Marble is also very versatile. It can be used in any part of the house, including living rooms, dining rooms and foyers. Marble tile also has a health benefit – the marble is a natural stone and can actually keep away microscopic particles and germs if it is cleaned properly.

Negative aspects:

Marble, like many other stone tiles, has very high maintenance requirements. Marble is also porous, which means it can be stained, scratched and worn more easily.

A small spill of coffee or mustard can ruin your brand new marble floor or countertop. Having marble tile means that you will be required to get a true stone professional to come and refinish them for large amounts of money in order to keep the marble looking its best.

Since cleaning products for deep stains on marble are limited, it is worth the time and effort to hire a stone restoration professional as a consultant to choose a quality stone for you and give advice on the necessary maintenance for the stone you choose. Marble tile is generally not recommended for kitchen floors and countertops.

Obviously, the choice is left to the client. With the above information, he or she should be able to make a well-informed decision. For more info, call Pacific Carpet & Tile Cleaning of Orange County, CA to help make an informed decision.