Granite Floor Tiles Pros and Cons
- Get 5 Free Samples
Planning on purchasing granite floor tiles? We compiled a list of some of the important considerations
you should take into account prior to making a decision, by creating a granite tile comparison chart
that covers other popular granite tile flooring alternatives. In addition, the following comparison chart would allow you as well to better understand the pros and cons of granite tiles.
However, since the various characteristics of different tile options cannot be conveyed by words
or images alone, we have also partnered with leading online tile wholesalers, and invite you to
choose up to 5 Free Tile Samples of any kind, including granite tile samples.
All samples ship free, and would arrive within 1-2 business days right to your door.
Obtaining free samples would allow you to really hold down the materials and examine their quality and other attributes (e.g., dimensions, durability, scratch-resistance, feeling of the texture, color matching, etc.) straight from the comfort of your own home. To choose and receive your free samples, simply scroll down to the bottom of the following comparison chart and click on the button in the relevant column.
In addition, you can click here to get a free installation cost estimate for your project.
Comparison Chart: Granite Tile vs. Marble Tile vs. Porcelain Tile:
| Granite Tile | Marble Tile | Porcelain Tile | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | Granite tile is extremely durable, as granite is one of the hardest natural substances found on earth, second only to diamond. | Good sturdy stone durability, yet not as durable as granite. | Porcelain durability is classified according to the PEI index which is used to rate all ceramic and porcelain tile products. the rating spans between 1-5 (whereas higher PEI indicates higher durability). Class 3 and above PEI would suit residential flooring. Porcelain with high PEI rating can be as durable as most natural stone tiles. |
| What is it made of | Granite is an igneous rock, formed from liquid magma that has cooled off over millions of years. It contains various minerals such as quartz that contribute to its extremely high durability. | A metamorphic rock that was formed after continued exposure to intense temperatures and pressures, that resulted in a very refined, smooth texture. | Porcelain is a type of ceramic, only that it is manufactured with a finer grain clay, and fired at much higher temperatures. Porcelain tiles that look like stone are additionally rendered with an advanced HD digital printing technology. |
| Areas commonly used | Granite tile can be found in residential and commercial settings, both interior and exterior. common areas include kitchens, hallways and wall cladding. | Modern kitchens, foyers, bathrooms, hallways and wall cladding. Marble provides a cool surface to walk on and is commonly used in hot and humid areas. | Floor surfaces (including exteriors, as the majority of porcelain tiles allow for outdoor use as well) and interior and exterior walls. High PEI rated porcelain would allow for commercial projects as well. It is a practical and popular choice for wet areas such as bathrooms, pool surrounds and kitchens. |
| Dimensions | Typically 12″x12″ - 18″x18″ | Typically 4″x4″ - 24″x24″ | Typically 6″x6″ - 24″x24″ |
| Thickness | 10mm – 13mm | 10mm – 13mm | Generally 9.5mm (= 3/8″, Industry standard) |
| Warmth and Feel | Granite has warm tones and special grains which adds definite character. | Classical and elegant beauty. | Versatile stylish patterns, including wood and stone look, that adds a great decorative value. |
| Cost (material prices) | $2.00 - $9.00 /sq ft | $2.50 - $15.00 /sq ft | $1.00 - $20.00 /sq ft |
| Total Cost (with Installaion) | |||
| Ease of Cleaning | A damp mop should be used, spills need to be cleaned as soon as possible, natural poultices may be used to remove difficult stains. | Similar to granite, however marble is more prone to staining than granite. | Can be cleaned easily with a damp mop, especially if the porcelain is glazed (while full-body porcelain would be more slip-resistant). |
| Environment friendly | In the sense that granite is not considered a renewable resource, it could be perceived as not very environmental friendly, however, in the sense that granite is extremely hard wearing, it could be considered eco-friendly as it prevents the need replace it frequently, as opposed to other flooring options. | Similar to granite. | Very eco-friendly, since porcelain is made from natural materials, and has an extremely long life-span. |
| Colors and pattern variety | Earthy color spectrum (from white and gold to blue and black), derived from the attributes of the area in which the granite was formed, making each tile impressive and one of its kind. | Natural unique variation of patterns and colors. available in several finish types: polished marble tends to be more opaque, while honed marble tends to be more slip-resistant. | Offered in a rich color and texture range, including tiles that mimic the look of real stone. finish types can be either polished or matte. full body porcelain is colored all through the body of tile, while glazed porcelain tile is colored only at its surface, with the body being usually white. |
| Ease of DIY Installation | A professional installer (with granite experience) is recommended. | A professional natural stone installer (with marble experience) is recommended. | A professional tile installer is recommended. |
| Care and Maintenance | Granite can last for a lifetime beautifully when cared and maintained properly; Sealing is required periodically, remarkably more often if the relevant area is in contact with water on a frequent basis. | Similar care as granite. | Virtually maintenance free when compared to granite; waxing or sealing are not required. |
| Fading due to UV exposure | Possibly. | Not remarkably. | No. |
| Climatic Suitability | Granite suits all climates, whether indoors or outdoors, including extreme cold climates (when installed properly) since it's not influenced by freeze-thaw cycles. | Marble tiles suit all climates for indoors use; they are not suitable for outdoors use in extreme cold climate, due to their relatively high water absorption rate. | Thanks to its denseness, porcelain suits all types of climates, generally for exterior use as well. |
| Pattern repetition | Each tile is a one of its kind unique, with an impressive look. | Similar to granite, a unique non-repetitive look for each tile. | Solid color tiles would be pretty constant; tiles with a stone look would moderately vary in their appearance. |
| Scratch and dent resistance | Granite is the most crack and scratch resistant among all other natural stone tiles. | Good scratch resistance, though not as good as granite. | Great resistance to scratches, generally more than natural stones. keep in mind though that any tile can chip if a heavy object drops on it. |
| Can it be installed over radiant heat | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. |
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Please note: The above data is provided for general information purposes only. Even though the best efforts were made to ensure its accuracy, such general information can never take into account differences between different products from different manufacturers, nor your unique personal circumstances and needs. It is therefore always recommended to seek advice from a qualified professional and carefully follow the relevant manufacturer's instructions.
