Wood flooring is all the rage these days. Tile and hard surface sales have been increasing due to the cleanability and aesthetic of the product. Not to mention, ceramic and porcelain tile is very durable. Consumers often look for water resistant flooring types that look like wood. Two options fall within this criterion: luxury vinyl plank flooring or tile flooring. Keep reading to learn more about tile flooring that looks like wood (wood-like tile).
Tile Flooring That Looks Like Wood
While wood flooring is beautiful, many people struggle with its durability. Families wonder if the wood will withstand the heavy traffic and wear and tear their floors often see. If you are thinking about wood flooring but worry about its durability, consider tile flooring that looks like wood.
Can Tiles Look Like Wood Flooring?
Wood-look tile offers an excellent alternative to hardwood floors. Wood-look tiles go by a few names, including wood-look, wood-grain, wood plank, faux wood flooring, and faux hardwood floor tile.
These are an excellent option for those who want flooring that is:
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Has a long life
- Is affordable
- Can handle water and changes in temperature
Pros and Cons of Wood-Look Tile Options
Pros of Wood-Look Tiles
Value
Perhaps the most significant benefit of tile is that it is a better value for your money. Until recently, tiles did not provide the warm appearance that wood plank flooring tends to have. Technological advances have made it possible to duplicate hardwood aesthetics at a lesser cost.
Style
People often sacrifice style to save money when looking at hardwood flooring options. Wood-look flooring tiles are cheaper to produce. Typically, you can buy a larger tile plank for the same price as a smaller format.
Additionally, there are many colors and patterns of tile to choose from within the same ballpark price. This means that you can get the wood flooring look-alike that you want without an increase in the material price.
Durability
Hardwood is quite beautiful; there is no denying that. However, it is a natural product, and the wood grain may change in appearance over time. Tiles provide not only a durable flooring choice, but if you take care of it, the tiles will still look new 20 years from now.
Easy to Clean
Tile flooring is an excellent choice because it is low maintenance. You simply need a regular mop and a vacuum, and you are good to go. Stick with warm, soapy water over harsh cleaners, and your tiles will last a long time.
Versatility
Finally, tile is the way to go if you want flooring that works in any room of your home. You can place wood-look tiles in:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry rooms
- Living rooms
- Bedrooms
- Wherever else you desire
Don’t worry about moisture; this does not affect tiles like wood. You can have the same flooring for your entire home for consistency. Or, use different wood-look tile colors or styles throughout your home for some diversity while still having the same wood effect.
Cons of Wood Look Tiles
Labor Intensive Installation
While wood-look tile has many benefits, there are also some negatives. First, installing wood-look tile is difficult, labor-intensive, and more expensive.
Installers must ensure the subfloor is smooth and level with wood-like tile installation. If not, the tiles will look and feel uneven.
An inadequate subfloor can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Therefore, hiring a tile flooring installation team with experience is vital.
Layout & Textures
The layout of the tile will make all the difference! Mixing the pattern and colors is vital for getting an authentic wood look. This gives your floor the unique style it needs.
One characteristic to consider when using tile is the surface. Tile can be glazed, polished, honed, or very textured; some can get slippery when wet. Consider the different textures for your home and think about what would feel best for maintenance and everyday use.
Installation Tips and Maintenance for Wood-Look Tile
To ensure the best results, here are a few tips for installing and maintaining wood-look tiles:
- Subfloor Preparation: Before installation, make sure the subfloor is clean, smooth, and level. This ensures the tiles will sit evenly and last longer.
- Grout Selection: Choosing the right grout color is key to enhancing the wood-like appearance of your tiles. A grout that matches the tile or a natural tone can help create a seamless look.
- Cleaning and Care: Regular sweeping or vacuuming prevents dirt from scratching the surface. For cleaning, use a damp mop with mild detergent to preserve the stain resistance and finish of your tiles.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stay away from abrasive cleaners that could damage the water resistant surface. Opt for gentle cleaning agents to maintain the tile’s longevity.
- Routine Inspections: Periodically check for any loose tiles or grout, especially in high-traffic areas. Early repairs can prevent more costly issues down the road.
Types of Flooring Tiles
There are two options for wood look tiles: porcelain and ceramic tile.
Porcelain is the better option for damper areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. It is a denser material and is better for repelling water. In addition, porcelain wears better than ceramic because manufacturers bake it at a higher temperature.
Overall, if you are looking for a great flooring option that is affordable and durable, choosing tile to create a faux wood flooring look is a great choice.
Stop by our showroom at Carpet Land to shop for tile in Omaha, Lincoln, and Sioux Falls.
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