Granite tiles offer several benefits over traditional ceramic tiles. These tiles are available in a variety of colors and designs. However, is the cost of purchasing and installing granite tiles their only drawback?
Often, people mistakenly refer to granite tiles as “granite ceramics.” This misnomer arises because ceramic tiles have been in use for so long that any similar product is easily categorized under the same name. When granite-based tiles appeared, they were incorrectly called granite ceramics.
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While this mix-up is interesting, this article will focus on the many advantages of granite tiles, as well as some of their drawbacks, with the primary disadvantages being the cost of procurement and installation.
How Are Granite Tiles Made and Why Are They Superior?
Manufacturing Process
Classic ceramic tiles are made from clay that is baked and then glazed to provide resistance to damage and waterproofing. However, the inner structure of ceramic tiles is porous, making them prone to absorbing moisture and lacking substantial strength.
In contrast, granite tiles are produced by compressing and baking ground stone at much higher temperatures than those used for ceramic tiles. This high temperature and pressure cause the material to undergo sintering, where the powder fuses into a homogeneous, solid mass.
Superior Quality
As a result, granite tiles boast significantly greater strength and resistance to mechanical damage. They are also highly resistant to moisture, as they do not absorb water. This quality makes granite tiles ideal for outdoor applications and ensures they perform well even in low temperatures. Their durability against damage makes them perfect for flooring.
While granite tiles meet all the criteria for wall installation, this isn’t usually necessary, as their superior quality isn’t fully utilized there. Plus, there are many attractive ceramic tile designs available at more affordable prices.
Can Granite Tiles Be Compared to Natural Stone?
Key Differences
Granite tiles have clear advantages over ceramic tiles, leading to the question of how they stack up against natural stone, especially granite. The main difference is that natural stone, with its unique imperfections and appearance, offers a distinct value.
On the other hand, granite tiles are industrially produced under strictly controlled conditions, resulting in precisely defined characteristics. Even if you buy granite tiles with a design that mimics natural stone, it is still an artificial product.
However, modern manufacturing technology has advanced to the point where granite tiles that imitate natural stone are nearly indistinguishable from the real thing.
Versatility and Design Options
In addition, granite tiles are available in a wide range of colors, shades, and surface textures. There are even tiles that are hard to distinguish from wood at first glance.
Major Advantage of Granite Tiles – Non-Absorbent
Compared to other materials, granite tiles are of significantly higher quality. They are far more resistant to scratches than wood, withstand chemical agents well, and often outperform natural granite since they do not absorb water. This eliminates the need for special maintenance and prevents stains that are common with natural stone.
Natural stone surfaces require periodic maintenance to prevent moisture absorption. Granite tiles do not have this issue. Additionally, granite tiles are more affordable than natural stone. They are also an excellent choice for underfloor heating systems due to their excellent heat conductivity.
What Are the Drawbacks of Granite Tiles?
Higher Cost
One of the primary disadvantages of granite tiles is their price. They are more expensive than standard ceramic tiles.
Installation Challenges
Other drawbacks stem from their high quality. Due to their dense, non-porous structure, granite tiles are heavier per unit volume, making transport slightly more challenging.
Furthermore, their high strength and resistance to mechanical damage require more skill from the installer. The tools for processing them are also more expensive, which contributes to higher installation costs compared to ceramic tiles.
Adhesive Requirements
Lastly, when purchasing granite tiles, inquire with the seller about the recommended adhesive for installation. Their non-porous structure necessitates high-quality adhesives suitable for non-absorbent surfaces. Using inadequate adhesives can lead to the tiles detaching, especially in outdoor areas or high-traffic locations.
By considering these factors, you can better decide whether granite tiles are the right choice for your project, balancing their numerous benefits against the potential drawbacks.