Porcelain Wood-Look Tile vs. Natural Wood Floors

Flooring is an important decision, whether you are replacing carpet or buying new flooring. It is easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. Even if you think you know what to look for, there are many options. Wood is no exception.

There are hundreds of color options and styles to choose from, but there are many materials available if you prefer a warm wood look for your floors. There are many options, from budget-friendly materials like vinyl and laminate to more expensive hardwoods and porcelain tiles. Which is the best?

In the past, we’ve used laminate to compare real wood to porcelain tile. Both sides have valid arguments for porcelain tile vs. hardwood. Porcelain tiles are stylishly crafted to look great and last for years. They combine the warmth of hardwood floors with the durability of porcelain tile.

Water Resistance

Hardwood flooring is porous and can absorb moisture. This can cause long-term water damage. Porcelain wood-look tile is non-porous and water-resistant, making it a great choice for moist spaces such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Design Options

Although hardwood flooring is available in many styles and colors it can be difficult to find the right one. Wood look tiles are available in a wide variety of styles and colors. Designers continue to create new styles, colors and textures as wood look tile becomes more popular.

Style

If you aren’t completely smitten with the look of hardwood, there isn’t much to see visually. Porcelain tile with a wood-like appearance is made to replicate the beauty, colors and textures of hardwood. New manufacturing techniques have allowed tile to be made in rectangular sizes that resemble planks.

Maintenance

Hardwood floors are susceptible to dents and scratches. High heels, pet claws and other factors can cause serious damage to hardwood floors. Porcelain, a harder material than wood, makes wood-look tile more durable and resistant to scratches and dents. Tile is easier to maintain and clean than real wood, and it lasts for many years.