Which is better tiles or marble?

1. Natural vs Man-made:

Marbles are natural stones composed of Calcite crystals formed due to natural causes. While a Tile is manufactured in a factory from silicates or clay fired at high temperature.

2. Aesthetics

Marble has been used for its esthetic qualities by royal dynasties all over the world, most notable being the Mughals and their Taj Mahal in particular. Most of the esthetic qualities of marble come from its crystalline nature and the natural lines formed due to the mixing of other elements with calcium. Marble flooring provides high esthetic values.

Tiles on the other hand have been used all over the world for domestic and commercial purposes. Different types of tiles are available ranging from polished to rough or punched surfaces. Tiles come in various designs and colors thus offers many choices for interior decorations. Hence with proper use of tiles, you can achieve a sophisticated look of high esthetic value.

3. Stain

The porosity level is high in the case of marble. Thus, the water-absorbing capacity of marble is high. It often leads to staining and hence marble requires regular maintenance so that it can retain its initial gorgeous look.

Tiles on the other hand are less porous. Hence requires less maintenance and retains its look with little care. Acid resistance and water poof tiles offer the best value in the long run compared to marble.

4. Polish ability

Marble is polishable. Hence in spite of getting stained and discolored, you can always get it polished and bring back its gorgeous look. But the polishing cost is high and thus increases the maintenance cost of the flooring. But, once installed it is going to be with you forever.

Tiles are non-polishable. Hence, once installed regular cleaning is the only maintenance required. Cleaning with a proper cleanser can keep your tiles flooring in proper shape for at least 30 years.

5. Impact on nature:

Marble is basically a natural product, like all other natural resources its stock is limited. Therefore, with time it will become exhausted.

Tiles on the other hand are ceramic products made from natural clay by firing inside furnaces. Since natural clay is available in plenty and tiles are produced in the factories, they are not going to be exhausted any time sooner.

6. Overall Flooring cost:

Marble flooring is costlier than tiles flooring if you estimate the lifetime cost of the two.

The initial installation cost for both is almost at par but considering the maintenance cost, marble flooring incurs cost more than tiles.