- Porosity: While ceramic tile is less porous than flooring materials such as natural stone, it is still somewhat porous and must be sealed regularly against moisture. Without a proper seal, ceramic tile can absorb humidity, which causes stains, mold, or mildew in wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
- Hardness: Ceramic tile is durable and unforgiving. This feature can cause discomfort when one stands or walks on it for extended periods. This feature makes ceramic tile not ideal for spaces where you want a soft, cushioned feel underfoot.
- Installation Complexity: Installing ceramic tile can be more labor-intensive and challenging than other flooring options, especially if you're working with intricate patterns or large-format tiles. We recommend a professional installation to achieve a flawless finish.
- Cracking and Chipping: While ceramic tile is durable, it can still crack or chip under impacts from heavy foot traffic and contact with dropped heavy objects. Replacing damaged tiles can be tricky, as finding an exact match may be difficult.
- Grout Maintenance: Grout is typically used to install ceramic tile. Grout requires regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent staining, mold growth, and deterioration. Grout lines can be challenging to keep clean, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Slippery When Wet: Ceramic tile can become slippery when wet, posing a slip hazard, particularly in bathrooms or near swimming pools. Choosing tiles with textured or matte finishes can help mitigate this issue.
- Limited Insulation: Ceramic tile provides minimal insulation and can contribute to heat loss or gain in a room. Adequate insulation and subflooring may be needed to ensure a comfortable indoor environment.
- Cost Variability: While most consider ceramic tile to be budget-friendly, there is a wide range of ceramic tile products available, and costs can vary significantly depending on factors like quality, size, design, and brand. Higher-end ceramic tiles can be relatively expensive.
- Difficult to Repair: Repairing damaged or cracked ceramic tiles can be challenging, especially if the original tile is no longer available. In such cases, you may need to replace the entire floor.
