Ceramic tile or hardwood flooring? This can be one of the toughest decisions that homeowners have to make when renovating. It’s hard to compare the two outright since they have different uses and people have various preferences. In order for you to make an informed decision, we have provided a short analysis of the pros and cons of using ceramic tile or hardwood flooring.

Hardwood Flooring ($3-10 per square foot)

Unlike ceramic tiles, hardwood flooring is limited to areas that face less exposure to wet climates like bathrooms and basements. What hardwood floors are great for is creating a warm, homely environment and establishing permanence in residence.

Maintenance is a non-issue compared to carpet as one simply has to mop and sweep when a mess is made. Hardwood flooring is also hypoallergenic since substances like dust, pollen, pet dander, and other common allergens aren’t trapped like in carpet.

Hardwood is generally strong and long-lasting despite what could end up being years and generations of use. Though, this factor depends on the type of wood used and the manner in which it was manufactured. Red Oak is one of the stronger options that is especially useful when one has a pet.

The debate then stems down to solid or engineered hardwood. Solid hardwood is cut from a single piece of wood and can be repeatedly sanded according to wear. This is useful because it is sensitive to wet and humid climates and temperatures.

Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is more stable and durable as it is made of cross-grained layers of hardwood. It cannot and does not have to be refinished many times. It can be installed in bathrooms and basements, concrete sub-floors, and radiant heating elements.

Homes with hardwood flooring can be sold for a higher value for all the reasons given above.

Ceramic Tile Flooring ($5-10 per square tile)

Ceramic tile, like hardwood, is hypoallergenic and allows for easy cleaning and maintenance. Glazed ceramic is waterproof and resistant to stains and high-humidity. As a warning, this natural protection can be compromised if the grout between the tiles is not sealed or if the tile itself is not even glazed.

Ceramic flooring can be guaranteed to last from ten to twenty years. Like hardwood flooring, ceramic tile can increase the value of your home, though in general it costs less than hardwood. Installation demands hard work from the contractors who could raise fees by 25% or even 50%. In addition to that, the exceeding weight of the tiles can make it impracticable to install in above ground stories.

Conclusion

Both hardwood flooring and ceramic tile have their pros and are useful for homes. It comes down to your property, your location, your needs, and your aesthetic preferences.

Choosing between hardwood and tile doesn’t have to be a dread-inducing task like going to the dentist. Contact us today for a consultation for your home!