The Budget-Friendly Tile Material That Looks More Expensive Than It Is

When it comes to tiling, it may seem like you need to drop big money to get sophisticated results. After all, no one wants to put all that effort into a new renovation only for it to look cheap. But with ceramic tiles, you don't need to break the bank. This is one expensive-looking option that is surprisingly budget-friendly. 

Ceramic tiles have a lot going for them. They are extremely durable; they're resistant to scratches and hold up well to heavy foot traffic. If you choose glazed tiles, they are also stain-resistant because the glazing process creates a non-porous surface. Unlike porous tiles, glazed ones don't need a sealant to protect them, so your tile will be easier to maintain when compared to other options like natural stone. Finally, ceramic tiles come in a wide array of colors and design choices that make them extremely versatile. 

What makes ceramic tiles really shine is their affordability. Generally, glazed tiles cost between $4 to $15 per square foot, while unglazed tiles run $3 to $35 per square foot. By contrast, porcelain is priced at $3 to $50 per square foot, and a natural stone like travertine can go for $5 to $47 per square foot. The low manufacturing cost of ceramic makes the material easy on the wallet, although you can still go all out on artisan products like Heath Ceramics tiles (and the extra cost is often worth it). 

Since ceramic tiles are so popular, there are lots of suppliers to choose from. For those on a strict budget, shopping online is generally cheaper than going to a store. One excellent supplier is Fireclay Tile. Although this outlet may be on the higher end of the budget scale, you can still find ceramic for $12 per square foot. You can also check out Tile Shop, where tiles are available for under $7 per square foot, or Tilezz, whose tiling starts at less than $5 per square foot. 

You don't have to shop online to stick to a budget. You can score big deals on tile in unexpected places — try local salvage yards or secondhand stores such as Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Seeing tiles in person may be best if you're new to tile shopping; this way, you can see subtle design variations up close and note small factors like how tiles look in different lighting.

Wherever you decide to source your tile, you need to care for it to ensure that it keeps looking good. Ceramic tile has a lifespan of 75 to 100 years, so it can be a lifetime investment if properly maintained. Special care must be taken when choosing cleaning products — for example, ceramic tile and white vinegar famously don't mix because the liquid may damage the surface. Similarly, avoid bleach or ammonia-based products and anything oil-based. If you need further suggestions, here are the best and safest cleaners to get ceramic floors sparkling.