Marble Tile vs. Porcelain We Put Them Head-to-Head

natural marble tile

When it comes to choosing new flooring options in Perth, most people choose either marble tiles (or marble-look tiles) or porcelain tiles. These floor tiles are generally the most popular options because both marble and porcelain come in a variety of designs and colours.

If you’re planning on redoing your flooring, you can’t go wrong in choosing either option. But which floor tile option is best? Marble floor tiles or porcelain floor tiles? To understand this, you need to compare the two. As someone who has dealt with both types of tiles for several years now, I help you make your decision.

So, continue reading this post as I put marble tile head-to-head with porcelain tiles. When you’re done reading, you’ll be better equipped to decide which tile to choose for your new flooring.

Marble Tile vs. Porcelain Tile: A Comprehensive Comparison

FeatureMarbleFloor TilesPorcelain Floor Tiles
LooksNatural, unique beauty with rich textures; highly attractive for high-end appealAvailable in various styles and designs, including marble look-alikes; versatile but lacks natural stone appeal
FunctionalityDurable, suitable for indoor use; porous and best for walls and floors indoorsHighly durable, suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications
Ease of InstallationEasier to install but may require expert cuttingMore complex and messy installation; typically requires professional help
MaintenanceHigh maintenance; needs regular dusting and moppingLow maintenance; easy to clean with a wet or dry sponge
Resistance to CrackingMore resistant to cracking and chipping from impactDurable but may crack under heavy impact
Impact on Resale ValueIncreases home resale value due to high-end appealNo significant impact on resale value
CostGenerally more expensive; custom options can be significantly higherMore affordable, with a smaller price range

Which is the better choice?

Deciding between marble and porcelain floor tiles comes down to your needs and priorities. Marble tiles offer timeless beauty and add to resale value, making them ideal if you’re after a luxurious, high-end look. However, they require more maintenance and come at a higher cost. Porcelain tiles provide a durable, versatile, and low-maintenance option for both indoor and outdoor use, making them better for those seeking a cost-effective, practical solution.

Now, let’s dive deeper into the features of each tile type to help you make the best choice for your space.

Looks

Porcelain tiles and marble tiles both come in a variety of styles, designs, colours, and finish options. And you can create any look that you desire using either porcelain tiles or marble tiles. However, marble tiles are completely natural, and they look better than porcelain tiles. The natural beauty of marble is what attracts many people into purchasing marble tiles.

Functionality

Both marble tiles and porcelain tiles are hardwearing and durable, and they can be used on walls or in floors. However, because marble is a natural material that is also porous, it is more suitable for indoor use. Porcelain tiles can be used both in indoor and outdoor applications.

Ease of installation

Marble tiles are much easier to install than porcelain tiles. While marble tiles may require an expert’s help for cutting the tiles, installation is otherwise fairly straightforward. On the other hand, installing porcelain tiles can be a messy affair, and you will certainly need professional help.

Maintenance requirements

Marble tiles need significantly more maintenance than porcelain tiles. Because marble is porous, the tile surface needs to be regularly dusted and cleaned with a damp mop. Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, are much easier to maintain. They need not be cleaned on a regular basis, and they can be easily cleaned using a wet or even a dry sponge. It is much easier to keep porcelain tiles looking as good as new as compared to marble tiles.

Resistance to cracking

Porcelain tiles may offer a hardwearing and durable surface, but they can crack if heavy objects are dropped on them. However, marble is much more resistant to cracking and chipping and won’t give in to impact.

Impact on resale value

If you choose porcelain tiles for your flooring, the tiles will have absolutely no impact on the resale value of your home. However, marble tiles will increase the resale value of your home. Marble has always been considered a pure, natural stone that exudes tremendous beauty. You can be certain that marble flooring will increase your home’s resale value.

Cost

In terms of cost, marble tiles are slightly more expensive than porcelain tiles. However, if you go with custom marble tiles, you can expect the price difference to be significant. Keep in mind that marble tiles will increase the resale value of your home, so the initial high cost can always be covered up.

Best quality porcelain or marble tiles in Perth

Regardless of whether you’re looking for porcelain tiles or marble-look tiles in Perth, you’ll find them both at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. We’re one of Perth’s largest tile retailers, and we offer an extensive range in our collection.

Our tiles are available in a variety of colours, designs, and finish options to suit your preferences. Whether you want to create a seamless look or contrast tiles, you can count on us for all the tiles you need. Look at our range of natural marble-look tiles—you’re sure to love what you see!

Conclusion

Marble tiles and porcelain tiles are the most popular of flooring options. While both types of tiles are available in a range of colours, designs, and finish options, marble tiles look better than porcelain tiles. Porcelain tiles can be used both in interior and exterior applications, while marble tiles are more suitable for use indoors. Marble floor tiles offer easier installation as compared to porcelain tiles. While porcelain floor tiles are easier to maintain than marble tiles, they are more prone to cracking. Natural marble tiles may be more expensive than porcelain tiles but choosing them will increase the resale value of your home. Keep all of these points in mind before you make a choice.

And, whether you’re looking for porcelain or marble-look floor tiles, look no further than us at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. We have an extensive range of floor tiles, so whichever you choose, you’re bound to find the perfect fit for your budget and style goals.