If you choose well, you will never have to change your floor
Choosing a floor should not only depend on aesthetics. We must take into account different factors that allow us to obtain an elegant and durable space. There are different types of flooring, for all budgets, that with the correct care will always remain impeccable.
Alternatives to tile flooring that you can consider
Although tiles are the most popular option, there are alternatives that could be interesting depending on the space and your needs and financial possibilities. These are the most common:
- Wood flooring (parquet or laminate): On the one hand, it offers good thermal insulation and is easy to install (especially laminate). On the other hand, it is less resistant to knocks, water or humidity. It requires more maintenance and is sometimes susceptible to scratches. In the long term, it can be expensive.
- Vinyl material: Unlike parquet, this material is more resistant to water, easy to maintain, and can be installed without much work. On the other hand, it lasts much less than tiles, as it can deform over time or with use.
- Microcement: It has a modern aesthetic, good wear resistance, and is easy to clean. As a major drawback, it is prone to cracks if not installed correctly. In addition, it requires proper sealing to avoid stains and is not as durable as tile.
- Natural stone floors (granite, slate): They are a durable and wear-resistant option, elegant and easy to maintain. On the other hand, prepare your pocket, they are expensive and installation is also usually very expensive. In addition, some types of stone are porous and require regular sealing.
With these alternatives, you can draw your own conclusions. Today, like tiles, you do not have many options that can be placed on the floor in terms of quality and price.
What type of tile is the most resistant to time?
There are different types of tiles, and depending on their characteristics, they will last longer or shorter. So that you don’t just focus on the design and take into account what type of material you buy, here is a small list of the different types of tiles for your floor:
- Ceramic tiles: They are quite durable (it is one of the most common options for price), although they can be susceptible to wear and tear and are a little less resistant to impacts. They are easy to maintain, but they are not the most resistant to stains on porous surfaces.
- Porcelain: They are more resistant and durable than ceramic tiles. They are made from a denser material and do not absorb as much water, making them ideal for areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
- Terracotta: Personally, I find them aesthetically very attractive, terracotta floors are usually more fragile and require special care, such as sealing on a regular basis.
- Stoneware: They are very resistant and easy to maintain, ideal for outdoor and high-traffic floors. Their installation can be a little more complex.
- Marble and natural stone: They are very durable and also elegant, but they require more rigorous maintenance and are susceptible to stains if not sealed properly.
As you can see, the range of tiles for your floor is wide. You just have to choose the one that best suits your needs and your budget.
Protect your tiles and you’ll always have a perfect floor
Once you’ve chosen which tile best suits your floor, it’s important to do a little maintenance. Here are a few problems that can prevent your home’s tiling from aging well:
- Excessive humidity: If the tiles are not well sealed or if there are water leaks, they can crack over time. In areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, moisture build-up can be a problem, so it’s advisable to dry surfaces when they become waterlogged.
- Impacts and falls: Although tiles are quite resistant, a strong blow or the fall of heavy objects can damage the surface. Since an accident can always happen, it’s advisable to keep some spare pieces.
- Wear on joints: Tile joints are susceptible to wear over time and frequent cleaning. Resin or epoxy grout, while more durable, also requires maintenance. It is advisable to fill grout when pores or wear are visible.
- Tough stains: Some tiles, especially lighter colored or porous tiles, can stain over time if not properly maintained. Polishing will leave them looking like new.
Learn how to preserve your floor
If you want your floor to remain as good as new in many years, you can follow a series of guidelines that will help you achieve this. These are the ones that will work best for you:
- Regular cleaning: Use specific products for cleaning tiles, avoid abrasive products that can damage the surface, such as cleaners with chlorine or strong acids. Using a mixture of vinegar and water is good for daily cleaning.
- Sealing the joints: The joints between the tiles are one of the most vulnerable parts. It is important to seal and re-seal them frequently to avoid the accumulation of dirt and moisture, which can damage both the joints and the tile.
- Avoid excessive use of water: On floors or walls, it is advisable not to saturate the area with water to prevent the joints from deteriorating and the tiles from loosening. Regularly ventilate damp rooms.
- Repairing cracks: If you notice any cracks in a tile, it is ideal to replace it as soon as possible to prevent moisture or dirt from penetrating the floor.
By following these routines you will always have an impeccable space. Remember that we have all kinds of tiles for your floor.
Contact us
Ready to transform your space with the elegance and durability of our tiles? Our team is available to answer your questions and help you make the best choice. Visit us or contact us today to discover all the possibilities that porcelain can offer your project.