Ceramic tile is one of the most popular choices for bathroom surfaces due to its durability, easy maintenance, and vast design options. However, ceramic tile also has some drawbacks to consider before installing it in your bathroom. This article will examine the pros and cons of ceramic tile for bathroom surfaces to help you determine if it is the right material for your space.
Durability of Ceramic Tile
One of the biggest advantages of ceramic tile is its durability. Made from clay and fired at high temperatures, ceramic tile is extremely hard and rigid. This makes it very resistant to scratches, chips, cracks, and dents under normal use.
Ceramic tile can withstand decades of foot traffic, dropped objects, and exposure to water. Its hardness also prevents staining, discoloration, and water damage. With proper installation and care, ceramic tile floors and walls can last 50 years or longer. This durability makes it an ideal surface material for bathrooms which experience high moisture levels.
The durability and longevity of ceramic tile help offset its typically higher initial material and installation costs compared to other bathroom surfaces. While ceramic tile may cost more upfront, you are investing in a surface that will last for decades without needing replacement. This can lead to long-term cost savings compared to materials like vinyl or laminate flooring that require periodic replacement.
Easy Maintenance of Ceramic Tile
Along with exceptional durability, ceramic tile is very easy to clean and maintain. The impervious glazed surface of ceramic tile resists absorbing liquids, soils, and stains. A simple sweep or mopping is often all that is needed to keep ceramic tile looking like new.
For deeper cleaning, mild detergents or ceramic tile cleaners and a soft scrub brush easily remove dirt and buildup without damaging the surface. Grout between tiles may need occasional scrubbing to remove residues, but is also quite durable.
The fact that ceramic tile resists moisture, mold, and mildew growth also cuts down on maintenance requirements. Bathrooms with ceramic tile surfaces often need less intensive or frequent deep cleanings compared to other surface options.
Ceramic tile’s ease of maintenance makes it ideal for busy households or those who want bathrooms with surfaces that are simple to care for long-term.
Design Options with Ceramic Tile
When it comes to design options, ceramic tile provides almost limitless choices for colors, textures, shapes, sizes, and patterns. From ultra-realistic stone and wood-look designs to vivid solid colors and bold patterns, ceramic tile can match any style. Mixing and matching tile designs allows for incredible customization in your bathroom.
Both floor and wall tile come in squares, rectangles, hexagons, subway tiles, and mosaics. Tiles can be as small as 1-inch mosaics or as large as 24-inch squares. This wealth of size options allows for creativity in layouts and visual interest through combining different shaped tiles.
Glossy, matte, textured, crackled, and hand-painted finishes provide endless options for the look and feel of your bathroom tiles. Accent borders, medallions, and tile inserts can add detail and personality.
With such extensive design flexibility, ceramic tile enables you to realize virtually any aesthetic vision for your bathroom, from modern and sleek to ornately vintage. It is easy to create a completely unique look that reflects your personal style.
Heat Retention of Ceramic Tile Floors
Ceramic and porcelain tile materials do not conduct heat well. While this provides some insulation from cold sub-flooring, it also means that ceramic tile floors retain heat. Warmth absorbed from the heating system or sunlight through windows builds up and radiates from the tile surface.
This heat retention can make ceramic tile floors feel hot, especially in bathrooms with direct sun exposure. Using rugs, mats or bath towels can help reduce excessive warmth. Opting for larger format tiles also minimizes seams that collect heat.
Those with sensitivity to warm floors may want to choose a tile with more heat conductivity or a different bathroom flooring material overall. However, the warmth of ceramic tile may be a benefit in bathrooms prone to feeling cold and drafty.
Hardness of Ceramic Tile Floors
The rigid structure and density that make ceramic and porcelain tiles so durable also result in a very hard, inflexible surface underfoot. This unmatched hardness provides even support across the floor. But it also means ceramic and porcelain floors offer minimal shock absorption or “give”.
For many people, the firmness adds a sense of stability when walking. But individuals with joint pain or injuries may find excessive time standing or walking on hard ceramic tile uncomfortable. Using supportive bath mats or slippers with cushioning can ease the effects. Or consider mixing in some small areas of softer complementary flooring.
Ceramic tile hardness can also increase risk of objects breaking if dropped directly on it. Installers can help mitigate this by selecting a tile thickness suited to the application. In general, porcelain tiles should be at least 3/8-inch thick on floors.
Slipperiness of Ceramic Tile Floors
The impervious glazed surface that makes ceramic tile so easy to clean also makes it inherently slippery when wet. Standard glossy or matte finish tiles provide minimal traction when floors become damp. This can lead to dangerous, fall-prone conditions in bathrooms.
Selecting textured ceramic tiles, including grip-enhancingAdagio, Crossville, or Bellissimo textures, can improve traction. Many manufacturers now rate tiles for “DCOF AcuTest” slip-resistance to identify options less prone to slips. A rating of .42 or above indicates suitable wet traction.
Proper installation is also key for safety. Tiles should be bonded securely to prevent shifting. Grout lines and textures should run perpendicular to the entry path to provide grip. Sealers and frequent cleaning help keep grout clear of residues that can increase slickness.
For optimal traction, existing smooth tile can be refinished with an anti-slip coating. Removable vinyl bath mats, tub appliqués, and shower liners also supply added friction while retaining the style of the original tile.
Hard Water Buildup on Ceramic Tile
The impermeable finish of ceramic tile prevents absorption of liquids and soils into the tile material itself. However, residue from hard water, soaps, and minerals can deposit a film on the tile surface. This buildup dulls the appearance of tile over time.
Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium that bind to soap and leave behind mineral deposits. These contaminants can etch into grout over years of exposure, leading to hazing and discoloration.
Routine maintenance using ceramic tile cleaners can prevent hard water film. But bathrooms in regions with extreme hard water may need more frequent heavy-duty cleaning to keep tile looking its best. Installing water softening systems or filters can help reduce hard water damage long-term.
Grout Stains on Ceramic Tile
While the ceramic tile itself resists stains, grout between tiles is porous and can absorb dirt, oils, and discoloration over time. Moisture and humidity in bathrooms accelerate absorption of grime into the grout from bath products, soils, and contact.
Discoloration and staining of grout lines is not unusual after a few years, requiring more scrubbing or use of whitening agents and sealers to restore the crisp clean appearance. Mildew growth in grout joints is also a common bathroom challenge, needing periodic bleaching.
Epoxy grouts provide better stain protection but can be more challenging for do-it-yourself installations. Choosing darker grout colors can conceal staining or irregularities over time. Wide grout joints can also help minimize the visibility of staining compared to narrow grouted lines.
Noise and Echo of Ceramic Tiles
The hard, non-porous surface of ceramic tile does not absorb sound effectively. Noise, voices, and echoes can reflect harshly off the tile walls and floors in a bathroom environment. This amplified reverberation can make the space seem loud and unwelcoming.
Strategic use of materials like bathroom rugs, curtains, and ceiling panels that absorb sound can help soften troublesome echo and acoustics. Opting for larger format tiles or ungrouted mosaic sheets also minimizes seams that can intensify sound reflections.
Installing a layer of sound dampening underlayment beneath ceramic tile floors can further reduce noise transmission in bathrooms below other living spaces. This added buffer blocks noise transfer for improved privacy.
Coldness of Ceramic Tile Floors
As a product fired from dense clay or stone minerals under extreme heat, ceramic and porcelain tile have limited ability to retain warmth. Their rigid structure readily conducts thermal energy. As a result, tile floors can feel noticeably cold under bare feet, especially during colder times of the year.
Tile’s coldness provides a welcome cooling effect during hot summer months. But chillier tile can be uncomfortable and surprising for bathroom users during winter. Using bath mats, slippers, and area rugs to provide insulation can ease the transition when stepping out of warm bed onto cold tile floors in the morning.
Installing radiant floor heating systems can transform a cold ceramic tile floor into a warm heat source. Heated floors offer luxurious comfort while retaining the many benefits of durable ceramic and porcelain tiles.
Heavy Weight of Ceramic Tile Floors
Quality ceramic and porcelain tile materials are dense and durable, but this results in a heavier weight per square foot compared to many other flooring options. Standard floor tiles often weigh approximately 10 pounds per square foot. Combined with mortar, the total weight per square foot installed is roughly 18-19 pounds.
This heavy weight impacts several installation considerations. Subfloors need to provide robust structural support. Trusses may need reinforcement to prevent deflection under the load. Many older wood frame structures were not designed to withstand the weight of ceramic tile.
Professional installers have the knowledge and tools to adequately brace floors where needed. On upper levels, soundproofing underlayments are recommended to reduce noise transmission below. Homeowners should consult professionals to assess their existing structure and installation requirements prior to tiling.
High Installation Costs
While durable and attractive, professionally installing high-quality ceramic or porcelain tile comes with a significant labor cost. Proper tile prep and installation is meticulous, time-consuming work requiring specialized skills and experience. This is reflected in installation pricing.
The national average cost to install ceramic tile is $7-$15 per square foot, depending on factors like layout complexity or niche accents. Complex patterns, mosaics, natural stone tiles, and specialty finishes escalate pricing further. Additional costs often include subfloor prep, underlayments, and post-installation sealing.
For a 10’ x 10’ bathroom with a tub surround requiring 75 square feet of field tile and 25 square feet of accent tile, total installation costs can easily exceed $1,500-$2,000. Larger and more intricate designs can cost significantly more.
Careful shopping and contractor selection can yield some savings. But quality tile installation is fundamentally labor-intensive and priced accordingly. Homeowners with the skills can save substantially by tiling DIY.
Difficulty of Self-Installing
Speaking of DIY installation, successfully tiling floors and walls yourself requires an advanced skill level. Proper substrate prep, mortar mixing and application, tile cutting, leveling, and grouting techniques all have a learning curve. Mistakes, uneven tiles, and improper adhesion can easily occur.
Ambitious do-it-yourselfers willing to invest time learning specialized techniques can tile their own bathrooms and save on the labor expense. But imperfections in a DIY tile job may be apparent. Challenging areas like ceilings, niches, shelving, and fixtures require extra skill. Hiring a professional for complex accent areas while tiling the field yourself can offer a cost compromise.
Overall, ceramic and porcelain tile materials involve one of the highest skill levels to install well compared to many other bathroom surface options. Homeowners should carefully consider their abilities before committing to a full DIY tile installation.
Risk of Cracked Tiles After Installation
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are extremely durable once properly installed. However, cracks can form in tiles after setting if faced with impact, shifting, unsupported weight, or extreme temperature changes during or after installation.
Hairline shrinkage cracks may appear as mortar cures. Point impacts can crack floor tiles if heavy objects are dropped. Loose tiles, deflection beneath, or improper bonding can cause cracks from movement or weight. Drastic heating or cooling, like direct sunlight on floors after setting, risks cracks from expansion/contraction.
Careful installation and curing per manufacturer guidelines can minimize risks. Inspecting tiles and preventing impacts for the first 28 days allows mortar to fully cure. Supporting heavy fixtures and appliances prevents surface cracks. Overall, cracked tiles after setting are an installation error, not an inherent flaw of quality tile.
High Embodied Energy
The durable and reliable nature of ceramic and porcelain tiles carries an environmental trade-off in the form of high embodied energy – the total energy required to produce the material. As an essentially “baked earth” product, manufacturing tile involves extensive mining, refining, processing, molding, glazing, and firing processes at extremely high kiln temperatures up to 2,200°F.
This energy-intensive creation results in tiles having a substantial carbon footprint. Estimates range from 14-45 Megajoules per square meter of tile. That means a typical 50 square foot bathroom requires 700 – 2250 Megajoules just to fabricate the raw tiles. Additional energy and resources are needed to transport and install the tile.
While tiles last a long time once in place, production contributes significantly to resource consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and ecological damage. Consumers considering ceramic and porcelain tiles must weigh their functional merits against environmental impacts. More sustainable bathroom surface options are available.
Key Considerations When Choosing Ceramic Tile
- Consider larger format tiles to minimize grout lines prone to staining
- Select textured tile finishes rated “slip resistant” for wet areas
- Use supportive cushions and rugs if concerned about tile hardness
- Install underlayments on upper floors to reduce noise transmission
- Select quality thick tiles and reinforce subfloors to support weight
- Evaluate DIY skill level honestly to determine if professional installation is the wiser option
- Be aware of potentially high embodied energy and emissions from tile manufacturing
Pros of Ceramic Tile for Bathroom Surfaces
Durable and Long Lasting: With proper installation, quality ceramic tile can last 50+ years with minimal wear or damage. This provides excellent value for the investment long-term.
Easy to Clean and Maintain: Ceramic tile resists absorbing stains, soils, and moisture. It cleans up easily with basic sweeping, mopping, and periodic deep cleaning compared to other bathroom surface options.
Extensive Design Options: With endless choices for colors, patterns, textures, shapes, and sizes, ceramic tile enables customized bathrooms reflecting your personal vision and style.
Moisture and Water Resistant: Impervious ceramic tile prevents water damage or degradation in moist bathroom environments. Its hardness also resists mold, mildew, and bacteria growth.
Insulates from Cold Subfloors: Ceramic tile provides an insulating layer between cold concrete slabs or subflooring and the occupied room space, retaining some warmth in the floor surface.
Fireproof: As an inherently inorganic product fired at extreme high temperatures, ceramic tile does not combust or produce smoke in fire situations. This adds safety, especially around stoves.
Cons of Ceramic Tile for Bathroom Surfaces
Can Feel Excessively Hard: The dense, rigid structure of ceramic and porcelain tile feels extremely firm and unforgiving underfoot. Cushions and rugs can help for those wanting more shock absorption.
Slippery When Wet: Smooth glazed ceramic tiles become very slippery when floors are damp. Textured “slip-resistant” tile finishes or appliqués are essential for safety.
Prone to Grout Staining: While ceramic tile is impervious, grout between tiles absorbs dirt and stains over time. Frequent cleaning and sealing is needed to limit discoloration.
Challenging DIY Install: Quality tile installation requires advanced skills. Homeowners should carefully assess their abilities before attempting large DIY tiling projects. Hiring a professional typically produces the best results.
Heavy and Rigid: Weighing up to 18 pounds per square foot installed, ceramic tile adds significant weight. Structural reinforcement and sound insulation may be required, especially for second story installations.
High Upfront Cost: Between higher material costs and professional installation labor pricing, quality ceramic tile has one of the highest upfront investments versus other bathroom surface options.
Significant Embodied Energy: As a fired product, manufacturing ceramic and porcelain tile consumes extensive energy resources. This results in a large carbon footprint and ecological impact.
Ceramic Tile Bathroom Floor and Wall FAQs
Is ceramic or porcelain tile better for bathroom floors?
Porcelain tile is generally the better choice for bathroom floors. Made from refined clays fired at higher temperatures, porcelain tile is harder, denser, and more water resistant than standard ceramic. The extra durability makes it ideal for the wet environment of bathrooms. Porcelain also has higher strength ratings and is less prone to cracking or chipping from impacts.
What tile thickness should be used on bathroom floors?
Quality ceramic tiles should have a minimum thickness of 1/4-inch for bathroom floors, while porcelain tiles should be at least 3/8-inch thick. This provides rigidity and reduces the risk of cracking underload. Thicker tiles distribute weight better. Many manufacturers now rate tiles for appropriate floor vs. wall use.
Can you put ceramic tile directly over a wood subfloor?
Ceramic and porcelain tiles can be installed over plywood and OSB subfloors, but preparation is required. Subfloors must be structurally sound, meeting deflection limits. Underlayments like cement board provide a secure bonding surface and moisture protection needed for quality tile installation. Some epoxy mortars allow direct bonding to bare wood, but have more limited applications.
Should bathroom floor and wall tiles match?
Matching floor and wall tiles can create a seamless appearance, but it is not required. Many bathrooms mix floor and wall tiles while using a unified color scheme or complementary designs. Mixing materials, shapes, or sizes on floors versus walls can add visual interest. Just ensure any transition between floor and wall tiles feels cohesive.
How long does ceramic tile installation take?
For an average 10’x10’ bathroom, a
