When it comes to deciding between ceramic and glass tiles, there is a lot to consider, including quality, durability, application, cost, and maintenance. Eventually, the decision is quite simple when you have enough information in hand. In other words, it’s really not something you need to be too stressed about.
With the expert knowledge of an interior designer and various tile experts, we explored the major differences between ceramic and glass tiles, including the pros and cons of each. We also highlighted the scenarios in which it could be advantageous to choose one over the other. When you reach the end of this article, you can make a safe and informed decision.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is fired at a lower temperature than glass tile, making them less dense, softer, and more absorbent. The clay used in its mixture is less refined, making it a more affordable but less durable option. Many homeowners choose to install ceramic tile as flooring, especially in hot climates, where the tile’s natural freshness becomes a welcome benefit during the summer months.
The Pros of Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is a handy and affordable option for those looking for large quantities of tiles on the market. Not only is it much cheaper than glass tile, but it is also easier to install. Due to its relatively soft surface, homeowners can cut ceramic tiles with a simple tile cutter like a piece of cake if you consider the much more complex process of cutting other tiles.
Additionally, ceramic tile has a sleek and attractive appearance, and the durable glass finish can be modified in a variety of colors and patterns. With a little discipline, it is easy to keep ceramic floors in perfect condition for years. Once a week, sweep or vacuum your ceramic tile to smooth the path and make cleaning easier.
The Cons of Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile can break with a heavy blow. Owners must quickly eliminate spills due to their relatively high absorption rate. It is best to avoid using ceramic tiles in areas often exposed to moisture, such as the shower and patio.
Also in part due to their tendency to absorb moisture, ceramic tiles require weekly, rather than monthly, deep cleaning. The coolness of the tile may look beautiful in the summer, but it can also be uncomfortably cold in the winter. Ceramic tiles are covered with enamel, and if the tiles crack or flake, the clay material will appear under the enamel. Homeowners should consider using ceramic tile in areas with low or moderate foot traffic.
Glass Tile
Glass tile can enrich any place with sophistication and style. Although it is expensive, if done right, choosing to go with glass tile will leave your space with a lot of visual appeals. Luxurious tiling is not limited to just any room, it can be used in bathrooms, kitchens, and swimming pools. Whether you pick to cover your entire space with glass tile or create impressive splash protection, you should find the pros and cons of glass tile before continuing with your project.
The Pros of Glass Tile
The glass tile is beautiful to look at. You can give your kitchen or bathroom a unique look because glass comes in all kinds of shapes, designs, and colors. This means that your design options are quite open, so whatever the vision, you can make it happen. Please note that glass naturally reflects light; If you are looking for a bigger and brighter space, then glass panel is the way to go.
One of the best features of glass tile is that it requires very little maintenance. When it’s time to clean, you just need a window cleaner and a cloth. That is why the shower area is perfect for glass tiles because soap buildup is very common and can be easily cleaned. Finally, the glass tiles are translucent. Whichever color you choose, it will appear on the tile, adding a unique layer of depth and dimension to your space.
The Cons of Glass Tile
Problems with glass tiles are limited, but they do exist. If you are a handyman, this can frustrate you. We highly recommend that you hire our professional tile installer to manage the project for you. Glass tiles can be, on average, slightly more expensive than their ceramic counterparts. With that in mind, the glass could give a better accent than an entire wall if you’re on a budget.
Although glass tiles are very easy to clean, the reflective nature makes it easy to spot blemishes. Fingerprints, dirt, grime, and anything else that enters your bathroom will be more visible with glass. If you don’t clean your tiles regularly, glass tile may not be the best option for you. Finally, the slippery surface of the glass is not the best one to use on the floor. If you want glass tile, consider a smaller size tile with a matte finish to add traction. You’ll also want to consider a non-slip sealant to make sure everything stays in place.
Ceramic Subway Tile Vs. Glass Subway Tile
Although we use both glass and ceramic, we recommend glass for most applications. Though it is slightly more expensive than ceramic, it has many notable advantages. Glass tile is available in a wide range of colors instead of the black or white generally offered in ceramic.
One of the biggest advantages of using glass tile is that it will still give your space the classic look of “subway tile” but with a more contemporary looking material. Glass tile is extremely durable because it is made in 8 mm thickness and the color springs from the back of the pieces of transparent glass. Turning on the color on the back means that your thin putty or any other putty used to stick the tile to the surface will not be seen.
The reflective properties of glass tile will also make your room larger, brighter, and more open. Glass tile is much more suitable for wet areas like bathrooms, because glass tiles are much more resistant to mold or mildew. Glass tiles are waterproof with an absorption rate of 0.00%. In contrast, ceramic tiles have an absorption of 0.5% to 3.0%.
Another advantage is that it is the greener option of the two. The materials are fully recyclable and require only about half the energy to process the ceramic!
