Tile is a trend in many home remodels today, and while one would think this is a recent development, tile installation can be dated back thousands of years. It wasn’t until the industrial revolution that tiles began being mass produced. Thank you, Queen Victoria!

She probably had nothing to do with it, let’s be honest.

Besides the vast history, there are many important reasons to consider including tile in your next kitchen or bath remodel. Other than drawing attention with their beauty and durability, tile is very environmentally friendly and undeniably cost effective in the long term. Here is why you’ll love living with your new tiled space.

Longevity

Good quality tile paired with proper installation can last a lifetime. Carpet, laminate and vinyl will always need eventual replacement, but it is hard to argue the durability of a great ceramic or porcelain tile.

Air Quality

The quality of the air inside your home is always a concern. Not only does carpet have the ability to hold in allergens, (such as dust mites, mold germs, and bacteria) but according to the CDC not only carpet, but also wood and vinyl has the ability to release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air, which can contribute to many health concerns. Tile, on the other hand, is fired in a kiln at an extremely high temperature and is incapable of releasing these chemicals, and also inhospitable to the germs, bacteria, and mold which can also cause health issues and allergic reactions.

Environmentally Friendly

Most tile factories reuse water and other materials during manufacturing, which keeps a large amount of scrap and wastewater out of our facilities. The regional availability of these products has also been said to lower emissions and energy consumption in the shipping process.

Overall Cost

Of all of the options on the market today, did you know that ceramic tile is actually the least expensive over the life of the tile? A study, completed in 2005 by the Tile Council of North America shows that on average, ceramic tile costs less per year than any other floor finish over the life of a building (50 years).

Carpet, laminate and vinyl prove to be significantly more expensive due to their shorter life spans.

Here are a few more advantages to trusting a quality ceramic tile:

Durability: When properly installed and maintained, ceramic tile will not fade or lose its original qualities and can last the life of your home.
Waterproof: A quality ceramic tile, when installed with proper materials, is impervious to water.
Clean & Healthy: Ceramic cannot host allergens or volatile compounds that can impact the overall health of your family.
Low Maintenance: Most ceramic tile can be cleaned using nothing more than warm water and a rag, and a mild detergent only when necessary.
Fire Resistant: Mechanically, ceramic tile is one of the strongest finishes, and will not burn at any temperature.
Fade Resistant: The colors are permanent and will never be affected by UV rays or fading from sun exposure.
Outdoor Capabilities: Porcelain and ceramic tile are frost resistant, and because of their high firing temperature are 30% harder than natural stone, therefore, they are the perfect choice for outdoor spaces.
Best Value: Ceramic tile will add value to your space and costs less in the long term than any other flooring option on the market.
Resale Value: A quality tile will increase the ROI on your remodel and the overall resale value of your home.

For more facts and information on the life cycle of flooring and ceramic tile, from the Trade Council of North America, check out https://www.tcnatile.com/.

To read more about Volatile Organic Chemicals, more information can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/indoorenv/chemicalsodors.html