How To Differentiate Tile Flooring From Wood Flooring?
Choosing tile vs. wood flooring is a decision every homeowner gets confused about. No doubt, it is one of the hardest decisions to make, but in this guide, we’ll share some differences between the two flooring types based on different categories to help make it easier for you.
Ease of Installation
Neither tile nor wood flooring is well-suited to DIY installation as both require a professional level of skill.
- Tile Installation Pros:
It is very easy to install the pre-cut tiles
You can install the tiles over existing floors
You can also install tiles below grade, making it ideal for the basement.
- Tile Installation Cons:
Tiles require special tools as they are very difficult to cut
It is difficult to space the tiles correctly
- Wood Installation Pros:
Wood flooring can be installed with radiant heat systems
Tongue and groove wood planks are easier to install
Prefinished planks do not require much time for installation
- Wood Installation Cons:
Whole planks need to be removed to correct the mistakes
In the case of unfinished planks, you can’t use your room for several days after their installation
Repair and Maintenance
Tile and wood flooring are both robust flooring options, but accidents may happen. So, let us compare which one is easier to repair and maintain.
- Tile Flooring Repair And Maintenance Pros:
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are waterproof
Tile flooring is easy to clean
Individual tiles can be easily replaced when they get damaged
Resistant to scratches
- Tile Flooring Repair And Maintenance Cons:
Requires occasional regrouting
Grout requires regular cleaning
If grout grows mold and mildew, it can’t be removed easily from the stains
- Wood Flooring Repair And Maintenance Pros:
Single wooden plank can be easily removed
In case of excessive damage, wood flooring can be refinished
Reclaimed planks and hand-scraped planks hide minor damage and wear
- Wood Flooring Repair And Maintenance Cons:
Large areas can be costly to reseal
Cannot resist moisture without proper sealing
If the seal is breached or worn away, it can get stained
Moisture Resistance
One of the most important factors to consider while choosing a new floor for your home is to check its moisture resistance.
- Tile flooring:
Some tiles, such as porcelain and ceramic, are waterproof, while others can become waterproof with sealant application
Some stone tiles require periodic resealing to remain waterproof as they are porous to some degree
- Wood flooring:
Wood flooring can be water-resistant with a good seal
Ipe is one of the dense forms of wood that is naturally water-resistant
Untreated wooden planks are prone to moisture
So Which Flooring Type Should You Consider: Tile Or Wood Flooring?
Well, we never would try to influence our opinions on you. This is all about your home and your personal preferences. Maintenance and moisture-resistance wise, we would suggest tile flooring has the advantage in those categories, hands down. At the same time, if you need warm and appealing floors for your home, wood flooring is the way you should go for. However, wood floors are prone to warping and cupping, even with proper care. And when it comes to installation, both tile and wood flooring are difficult to install. So, opt for one that fits best your requirements.
