If you like the look of a natural stone floor, but don't like the price, consider ceramic tile. There are many styles that mimic natural stone. And, you can save $10 to $15 a square foot.

Why Ceramic Instead of Natural Stone?

·         Cost -- Ceramic tile typically costs about $8 a square foot for stone-like patterns compared with $20 to $25 for real stone.

·         Ease of Maintenance – Some natural stones are porous and will hold stains. This is particularly true with marble in showers, as the water, soap and shampoo can take a toll.

Design Appeal

·         Look for a muted, honed finish that appears worn with age

·         These ceramics have lots of random coloration

·         Neutrals, such as a creamy marble-look, are easy to decorate around

·         Try tumbled marble designs for an Old World, somewhat rustic look

·         What about granite for a more upscale and formal look?

The Types of Tile

There are two main types of tiles that resemble stone. One is a ceramic that is “single fired” and has a natural stone design applied on top. The other is a porcelain tile that has the design as an integral part of the tile.

With porcelain, you can make the color integral – it’s all the way through so the surface looks more convincing as a natural stone. The porcelain tiles, which are ceramic tiles fired at a higher temperature, typically are more expensive.

Before You Buy

Consider:

·         aesthetics

·         budget

·         the proper use of the tile

While porcelain is considered a more durable product than single fired ceramic, it really is “kind of overkill” in most residential applications. The single fire method of making ceramic tile is all that is needed in most homes.  The porcelain tiles are more suited for a large shopping mall that receives lots of foot traffic, as the porcelain is nearly indestructible.

Variety of Stone Patterns

Both types of tile are used to replicate a wide variety of stones, such as:

·         marble

·         travertine

·         granite

·         limestone

·         slate

The Cost?

The least expensive tiles that have the same pattern throughout are priced from $3 a square foot, while higher quality tiles are priced around $6 a square foot. The polished porcelain tiles that resemble marble are priced between $14 and $30.