What is the Difference Between Tiles and Marbles?

Changing your floor is a strenuous and time-taking process; hence, selecting the rightmost flooring needs significant consideration and care. Both tiles and marble have been used for centuries as a way to add beauty and function to homes and buildings. 

But what exactly is the difference between tiles and marble? Let’s take a closer look at the key characteristics of each one so that you can decide which one is right for your next project.

The Pros & Cons of Using Tiles and Marbles

Before we get deep down into the comparison guide of Tiles Vs Marble, let’s first learn about some pros and cons of using both these flooring types to get a quick idea. 

Tiles

It is a piece of baked clay and is mainly used in covering roofs or walls. Tiles come in both glazed and unglazed forms and are counted among the cheapest flooring options. 

Pros

• Tiles are harder than marbles, so they are more resistant to scratches and wear and tear.
• They come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and patterns, so you can easily find the perfect style for your home. 
• Tiles are easy to clean and require little maintenance.

Cons

• Installing tiles is quite long and cumbersome. 
• These are fragile and would break upon impact. 

Marble

Marble is a natural stone that has been used for quite a long in homes and public spaces. It is durable and beautiful, but it can also be expensive and difficult to maintain. 

Pros

• Marble is a classic material that adds elegance to any space.
• Marble comes in a wide range of patterns, so you can find the perfect look for your home.

Cons

• Marble is a porous material that can stain easily.
• It requires regular maintenance and can be scratched or chipped if not cared for properly.
• Because it is a natural stone, marble can be expensive.

The Key Differences Between Tiles and Marble

Now that you are covered with the basics, it’s time to unwrap the key differences between these two leading flooring options. Read them thoroughly and make an informed decision. 

• Composition

The first and major difference between Tiles and Marble lies in their material composition. Tiles are made from fired clay or porcelain, which makes them very sturdy and durable. They are also waterproof, making them ideal for areas that are prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens.

Marble, on the other hand, is made from natural stone, which gives them a luxurious look and feel. While they are built to last longer, they are not waterproof and have relatively high porosity. Marbles typically have more veining than tiles; hence often used in formal spaces like living rooms and dining rooms.

• Types

When it comes to types and classifications, there is no shortage of options in both tiles and marble. There are many varieties of tiles available and each varies in type and cost. Some of the popular tiling options are Ceramic, Mosaic, Quarry, Terra Cotta, Vitrified, and Natural Stone. 

Marble is also available in a wide range of colors, including classic white and black, as well as more exotic shades like pink, green, and blue, depending on the geographical process that formed the stone. Examples of varieties of marble stones include Carrara Marble, Murphy, Purbeck, Creole, Vermont, Yule, and Etowah. 

• Finishing

Both tiles and marbles are best-known for their classic finish and glossier looks. However, their finish and patterns are slightly different, which further distinguish these materials from each other. While polished marble features a glossy finish, tiles are available in both glazed and unglazed varieties. 

If you are looking for a more natural look, you can choose to wax your tile or marble. However, you can choose to varnish, if you want to add some extra protection to your floor.

• Wastage

When it comes to choosing between tiles and marbles, one of the key considerations is wastage. With tiles, any cuts or waste can be recycled and used elsewhere in the home, whereas with marble, any waste is simply wasted. This is something to keep in mind if you’re trying to be eco-friendly or budget-conscious.

• Cost

The price of tiles and marble is the major distinguishing factor that can make or break your decision. Unarguably, marble is more expensive than tiles as it is a natural stone that has to be extracted using pricey and specialized techniques. 

Tiles, on the contrary, are man-made, which is why they are typically less expensive. The cost of marble further increases as a lot of marble does waste while cutting. However, wastage is low in tiles, making them more affordable. 

Summing Up

There are many differences between tiles and marbles, from their origins to their properties. So, when deciding which material to use for your next home improvement project, be sure to keep these differences in mind and make a choice wisely.