What is the Difference Between Tile and Marble?

Are you confused about choosing marble or tile for the floor? Do you want to know the difference between these two and their pros and cons that can help you make a better decision? Then you are at the right place. This article will cover the basic difference between tile and marble and will help you choose the correct wall tiles or floor tiles.

The first few things that people notice about any space when they walk in are walls and floors. Both these features are not only functional but also add aesthetic value to the building. This makes it quite important to choose the correct flooring and wall decor options so that your building will not only look good but will also last for a long time. While things such as carpets, curtains, furniture, etc. can be changed whenever you want, changing walls or floors is a time–consuming and challenging process. This is why it is necessary to make a proper choice right in the beginning to avoid any hassle later. 

Marble vs tiles has been a contentious topic for a long time. Each material has its pros and cons.  While considering tiles design, one needs to focus on various aspects including material, pattern, colour, and design. Here are a few parameters that set tiles apart from marble and vice versa.

Composition

Marble: Marble is a natural stone that is formed due to the metamorphic crystallisation of limestone. In this process calcium carbonate gets converted into calcite crystals.

Floor Tiles: These are generally made with either clay or silicates that are baked at high heat.

Stain-Proof:

A major marble and tile difference is the quality of being stain-proof. Marble, while looks elegant, is easy to stain. Compared to marble tiles are not easily stained making them easy to maintain. 

Classification

There are many types of marble you will find in the market. Marble is available in various colours, shades, shapes, etc. Similarly, tiles too are available in various materials such as glass, porcelain, terra cotta, quarry, etc. Both of them can be used as wall tiles as well as floor tiles. 

Finish

Marble is generally available in a tumbled finish and glossy finish. Tiles are available in glazed as well as unglazed types. 

Porosity

This is an important difference between marble and tiles. Marble is more porous than tiles due to its crystalline structure. This is why marble can be made to shine more with the help of frequent polishing. Tiles are not as porous as marble which makes them ideal for damp places such as kitchens and bathrooms. 

Variations

Tiles are available in a variety of options. As tiles undergo a lot of manufacturing procedures, one batch may not be completely similar to the other one. Marble, being a natural stone, has a lot of variation which makes it less consistent than tiles.

Eco-Friendly

Marble is non-renewable or at least takes an extremely long time to get reproduced in nature. The extraction of marble needs a lot of energy and resources. Compared to this, tiles are recyclable and manufactured with relatively safe procedures. They are also non-toxic. 

Price

The cost difference between marble and tiles is something to consider while buying them. Marble, being naturally found, is more expensive than tiles. Only high-quality marble looks elegant and is extremely expensive compared to tiles.

Wastage

A lot of material is wasted while using marble because it has to be cut according to the shape and size of the place of application. Compared to marble, wastage is extremely low in the case of tiles which makes them a good and affordable option.

Both marble floors and floor tiles are great flooring solutions for residential and commercial use with their own pros and cons. This article will help you make an informed choice in no time.