Choosing which flooring method to implement is indeed consequential. Whether it is tiled or polished concrete flooring, it will certainly be affixed for many years to come.
Considerably, various flooring options are already available in the market. And undoubtedly, elegant, smooth, and sturdy flooring surface is what you are looking for. When it comes to that, polished concrete or tiles are your viable options. But how do you determine the appropriate plan for you and will fit your space? Let’s discuss their differences and find out.
As to Vibe and Appearance
Concrete has a vast range of color and texture options. During the process, pouring the fresh concrete and incorporating pigments can be done subsequently. Unless you want to employ a different technique, which is to add a stain to enhance the usual grayish slab.
Furthermore, refinishing techniques can also be applied to achieve textured floors or tiled designs. Unlimited options are offered in the market, and since concrete floors are in fashion for years, you’ll have access to diverse ideas and inspiration for what refinishing approach you will apply.
Tiles, on the other hand, also come with a wide variety of hues and designs. Terracotta, wood-look, glass-like, with this material, your preferences are most likely to be achieved. Tiles are also versatile as they can be used as a backsplash in your kitchen and bathroom walls.
As to Durability and Useful Life
Firm, resistant, low-maintaining, both concrete and tile, can withstand substantial damages.
Concrete, by its nature, can take a beating. Unsurprisingly, this material is highly utilized for pavements, garages, pool decks, and floorings. Finished concrete floors are remarkably sturdy and can endure more massive foot traffic than many other flooring alternatives. Slip, chemical and shock resistant, finished concrete floors are guaranteed safe and will last for decades.
Likewise, tiles are also durable and can last up to 50 years. However, this material is more prone to cracking, especially when extreme pressure is applied. On the bright side, for separate scenarios, the need for replacement may be implemented to a single tile or two.
With decent upkeep, both concrete and tile are considerably very suitable options for your residential or commercial spaces, which makes them excellent long-term investments.
As to Cost-Effectiveness
Prices comparatively diversify when it comes to concrete, and your specifications play a significant portion in it.
As for concrete flooring, situationally, if your subfloor is made of concrete, then refinishing the surface is all you have to do. The cost usually ranges from $2 to $30 for every square foot. You are most likely to be under budget if you stay closer to the $2 mark.
Otherwise, installing brand-new concrete floors will cost you more financial resources. The process usually stretches between $2 and $15 per square foot, refinishing cost is not yet included. Moreover, it is reasonably vital to have your concrete floors installed by professionals, which requires a deeper pocket.
Tiles, however, will cost you $5 per square foot, which means, in several instances, will either be more economical or a bit expensive than concrete. As might be expected, if you want a high-end quality, it also entails costlier expenditure.
Generally, the cost should be the same equivalent one way or the other. Whether it is concrete or tile, be sure to include installation costs in your estimated budget.
As to Upkeep and Installation
By their nature, concrete and tile are reasonably easy to maintain. Spilled liquids are just a wipe away. You can apply almost any sort of cleanser to rinse your concrete or tile incorporated with vacuuming, dusting, and regular sweeping.
Concrete will require sealing or coating every three to nine months, whereas tile grout can turn into an eyesore over time. Although a simple steam-clean on the tile surface, once dirt is spotted, will help.
As stated beforehand, concrete installation needs to be handled by skilled and professional installers since the process is quite delicate. Thus, hiring an experienced crew is a more feasible approach.
Tiles are somewhat handier compared to concrete. The overall installation process is tedious, with heavy materials and equipment. Nevertheless, it is still way better to hire a contractor to perform the task than doing it yourself since the method is complicated and requires steady hands.
Summary
Concrete is the reigning material utilized in home and commercial improvements over the decades, and its elegance and reliability persist. Whereas tile is classic corporeality that offers stunning outcomes and is reasonably practical.
The three main distinctions fall to cost, firstly, since concrete can’t be done by yourself. Secondly, aesthetics, since tile comes in various styles, namely wood-look, terracotta, and glass-like, a backsplash is another function. Finally, water-resistance, as the tile is, and concrete is not entirely.
Comprehensively, concrete, and tile are relatively comparable in various ways. Robust, durable, and lifelong, these construction materials are easy to maintain and your reliable asset through ages.