Wood-look tile can be an excellent alternative to hardwood floors if you are looking for something affordable, durable, easier to maintain, and can deal with water and temperature changes.
But tiles can be difficult to install and generally come with a limited warranty, which means that you want to get it right the first time.
So, how can you decide if wood-look tile is the right decision for you? We will get you started in this comprehensive guide. We will look at the pros and cons, cost, installation, and best brands, compare wood-like tiles with other wood-look flooring solutions, and answer frequently asked questions about wood-look tiles.
This article is broken up into the following sections. Feel free to read it in its entirety or bookmark this page for future reference.
What is Wood-Look Tile?
Wood-look tile is a ceramic or porcelain tile designed to mirror the look of natural wood (color variations, grain patterns, and knots) while delivering the added benefits of durability and eco-friendliness that tile offers. Unlike hardwood, which is more porous and prone to wear, wood-look tile is built to last.
Porcelain or ceramic tile can replicate materials like stone or brick aside from wood while thriving in high-traffic spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Its smooth surface makes it easier to keep clean as it won’t trap dirt or dust. Wood-look tile is also waterproof and able to withstand temperature changes, making it a great choice for outdoor spaces. Just be sure to opt for a slip-resistant finish for added safety.
Wood-Look Tile Pros
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Talk To A Floor Critics Pro1. Value
Tile has always been better valued than hardwood. However, until recently, it didn’t come close to delivering the overall warm appearance that is natural to real wood. But, with advances in technology, it’s now easier than ever to duplicate the aesthetics of hardwood at a significant saving.
And that’s just the start. When it comes to hardwood, you often face the choice of sacrificing style for savings. With tile, however, production costs are lower, meaning you can usually buy larger planks at the same price as smaller sizes.
Similarly, the color of your tile won’t significantly impact the cost. Unlike wood, which varies by species, tile pricing tends to be more consistent. So, you’re likely to pay the same price for a mahogany look-alike as you would for a replicated knotty pine design.
2. Durability
It’s a fact. Tile is one of the most durable flooring materials you can buy. It is waterproof and scratch-resistant.If you take care of it, it will still look new in 20 years, unlike its counterparts, hardwood or engineered hardwood (in fact, here’s a comparison between tile & engineered hardwood).
The only drawback? Wood-look tile will chip if you drop something heavy on it. But for everyday wear and tear, tile beats hardwood hands-down.
Let’s face it: hardwood is stunning, but it’s also a pain to maintain. You’ve got to be cautious about scratches, vigilant about spills, and always on top of dirt. If you’re not careful, your beautiful hardwood can start looking worn out in no time.
Sure, refinishing hardwood is an option, but who really has the time for that?
So, what’s the solution? Tile that looks like wood but without all the fuss. It’s tough enough to withstand your clumsy spouse, keep up with your energetic toddler, and handle your lively pets.The downside? Wood-look tile can chip if something heavy falls on it. But when it comes to everyday wear and tear, tile definitely beats hardwood hands down.
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Get a Local Flooring Pro3. Maintenance
TTile is incredibly easy to maintain. No need for fancy tools or expensive cleaners. Just a simple tile mop, a static broom, or a tile vacuum will do the trick. Unlike other flooring options, tile holds up well against water and moisture. While you don’t want to flood your floors, a little moisture won’t cause them to warp or buckle.
However, be mindful of the cleaning products you use. Acidic and abrasive cleaners can break down grout and damage the surface. Stick with mild soap and warm water for the best results.
4. Versatility
If you want versatile flooring that works in every room, wood-look tile is the way to go. Just make sure your subfloor is even and free of cracks, and don’t forget to waterproof the subfloor and seal the grout to prevent any water from getting trapped underneath.
Best Areas to Install Wood-Look Tile Flooring
You can install tile in bathrooms, kitchens, mudrooms, laundry rooms, and even basements where hardwood flooring would normally face water issues.
That’s because tile is impervious to dampness and humidity, provided it’s smooth. It doesn’t require a wood subfloor and adheres directly to cement.
So, if you’re looking for consistent flooring and a seamless look throughout your home, consider tile. One word of caution: buy enough material to finish the entire floor. As tempting as it is to do one room at a time, waiting may make the job of matching colors and shading difficult.
5. Variety
Looking for endless design possibilities? Wood-look tile has you covered. Not only can you find tile that mimics your favorite hardwood species, but you can also customize the color. Many high-end tile manufacturers offer custom designs to match your exact vision.
Even if customization is out of your budget, there’s still a vast array of tones and textures to choose from. Whether you prefer the natural colors of wood or the look of sun-bleached or weathered boards, you’ll find something that suits your style.
And if variety is what you crave, many flooring manufacturers offer tiles in different widths and lengths, so you can easily recreate the look of wide-plank hardwood cork floors with tile.
6. Allergy-Friendly
Wood grain tile is perfect for allergy sufferers. It doesn’t harbor dirt and dander like carpet can (that goes for both ceramic and porcelain). It’s also resistant to irritants like pollen and dust mites.
And while the subfloor and grout can technically grow mold, smooth tile is moisture resistant. In fact, if you take the necessary steps to waterproof your subfloor and seal the grout lines yearly, you shouldn’t have any issues with mold or mildew.
If you choose tile flooring with a textured surface, make sure it is watertight. Cracks and crevices can collect liquid and camouflage bacteria growth. When in doubt, check with the manufacturer for maintenance guidelines.
7. Pet-Friendly
Tile is a smart choice for pet owners who worry about scratches and scuffs. Unlike hardwood, quality tile won’t show scratches from even large dogs. Plus, cats won’t be able to use it as a scratching post or shred it.
If your pet has an accident, cleaning up is a breeze, and tile won’t trap odors. Just make sure to clean the grout as well. If you’re installing wood-look tile, don’t forget to provide a cozy bed for your pet, as tile can be hard and chilly for them to sleep on.
A tip: if you have pets, opt for lighter-colored tiles. Dark floors tend to show every bit of pet hair (struggling with this? Check out these pet hair vacuums) and every tiny paw print.
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Both porcelain and ceramic tile are eco-friendly flooring materials. They do not contain harmful chemical compounds known as VOCs. That means they don’t emit chemicals or odors into the air.
Another green benefit? Wood-look tile is recyclable. Waste products are ground-up and reused for paving roads and driveways.
Ok, so we’ve gone over the pros, but what about the cons?
Wood Look Tile Cons
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Get a Local Flooring Pro1. Difficult Installation
Installing wood-look tile is not a simple DIY project – it requires a professional, especially when cutting the tiles. For one, it takes a trained eye to detect imperfections or cracks in the subfloor. If the subfloor is damaged, the tiles will look uneven.
A subfloor that isn’t up to standard can also encourage mold and bacteria growth. An experienced installer will know how to safeguard your tiles from moisture and water damage.
Finally, laying wood-look tile requires a bit of expertise. To achieve the most natural look, the pattern needs to be staggered, and the tones should be blended carefully. Spacing grout lines consistently throughout the rows takes patience.
Unless you’re prepared to sort through boxes of tiles yourself, it’s best to leave the job to a professional.
2. Temperature
Tile is known for being cold underfoot. If you live in a cooler climate, stepping on tile can be uncomfortable, especially in the mornings.
There’s a solution, though. Since wood-look tile is affordable, consider investing in radiant underfloor heating. Not only will it make your floors more comfortable, but it’s also energy-efficient. Pairing wood-look tile with underfloor heating is the ultimate indulgence. If you need an excuse to treat yourself to this little luxury, this is it.
If radiant heating isn’t in the cards, no worries. A fluffy area rug can help keep things warm. And don’t forget to create a comfortable spot for your pet to rest as well.
3. Comfort
If you’ve ever stood on tile for a long time, you know it can be hard on your feet. Tile doesn’t have the cushioning that other flooring types provide, so if you’re using wood-look tile in the kitchen, consider adding an anti-fatigue mat to make standing at the sink more comfortable.
Tile is a top choice for bathrooms due to its water resistance and ease of maintenance. However, it can be tough on your knees if you’re bathing kids or pets. Also, wood-look tile tends to feel colder than natural wood, so installing underfloor heating may be a good idea to keep things warm during the colder months.
A downside: tile can crack if you drop something heavy. Even if the tile stays intact, the dropped item might not.
4. Slippery
Smooth or polished tiles can become slippery when wet, which can be a safety concern, especially for young children, elderly family members, and pets. When choosing tile for bathrooms or mudrooms, look for textured or non-slip varieties. Wood-look tiles come in hand-scraped or grooved styles that improve traction in wet areas.
Also, wear shoes while cleaning your floors to avoid slipping and to prevent footprints. Be sure to keep the area off-limits until the floor is completely dry.
5. Home Value
Natural hardwood flooring may be more attractive to buyers compared to wood-look tile, so it won’t increase home value. However, wood-look tile’s durability and stylish look often outweigh hardwood’s authenticity which enhances your home’s practical value.
Now that we’ve discussed the pros and cons, let’s move onto the material. Wood-look tile is available in both porcelain and ceramic. There are a few differences between the two, but both function well in residential applications.
Porcelain vs. Ceramic Wood Look Tiles
The most noticeable difference between porcelain and ceramic tiles is the price. Ceramic tile runs anywhere from $2.00-$8.00 per square foot, depending on quality. Porcelain costs between $4.00-12.00 per square foot, on average.
More on Ceramic Wood Look Tiles
Ceramic tile durability is measured on the PEI scale, which ranges from one to five. Developed by the Porcelain Enamel Institute, this scale helps evaluate tile hardness and scratch resistance. When shopping for ceramic floor tiles, aim for a rating of four or higher. Tiles rated one or two are better suited for wall applications.
It’s also important to check the Coefficient of Friction (COF) rating. This handy system measures how slip-resistant a tile is. Sssentially, how much “grip” it provides.
The higher the COF rating, the more traction the tile offers. For flooring, experts typically recommend a COF rating of 0.50 or higher to ensure safety and stability.
This is where ceramic wood-look tiles often shine. Compared to porcelain, ceramic tiles tend to achieve a higher COF rating, giving them an edge in slip resistance, especially in areas where safety is a priority.
More on Porcelain Wood Look Tiles
Porcelain wood-look tile is one of the most durable flooring options available today. It’s known for being harder, more resistant to chipping, and offering superior water resistance compared to regular ceramic tiles.
Made from clay and fired in a kiln, porcelain wood-look tile shares the same basic manufacturing process as ceramic tiles. However, the key difference lies in the quality of the porcelain clay, which is more refined and baked at a higher temperature. This results in a tile that’s denser, more durable, and highly water-resistant.
So when installing wood grain tile in damp areas, porcelain is the better choice. Due to the manufacturing process, porcelain is better at repelling water and because porcelain is baked at higher temperatures, it wears better than conventional ceramic.
As a bonus, you can even install them in semi-outdoor areas like sunrooms or patios. Their durability allows them to handle minor temperature changes without cracking.
Two Types of Porcelain Tiles: Through-body and Color-body
- Through-body porcelain features color and pattern that run consistently through the entire tile. If the tile is chipped, the color will still blend, making damage less noticeable.
- Color-body porcelain retains its color only on the surface, with a baked-on coating that provides its glossy finish. If the outer layer is damaged, it may show a slight difference in appearance.
When deciding between ceramic and porcelain tile, consider the specific needs of your space. Porcelain may be worth the extra investment in some cases, but high-quality ceramic can be a durable choice for most homes.
One Thing To Note: Most Wood-Look Tile On the Market is Made of Porcelain
While you’ll likely encounter the term “wood-look ceramic tile” in the marketplace, the majority of wood-grain tiles are actually made from porcelain, not regular ceramic. So when it comes to most flooring options, porcelain and ceramic are often used interchangeably.
How do you find high-quality tile? Well, that’s the topic of our next section. Here’s a list of guidelines you can follow.
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Talk To A Floor Critics ProWood Look Tile Review: How to Select Wood-Look Tile Flooring
1. Quality Guidelines
As we’ve mentioned, density plays a key role in tile quality, but it’s not the only factor. Certification and inspection are just as important when assessing tile quality.
The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and the Porcelain Tile Certification Agency (PCTA) are responsible for grading tile quality. These organizations consist of industry leaders and manufacturers, setting standards for tile design, production, installation, and safety.
Be sure to look for TCNA or PCTA certification when shopping for tiles. And, don’t forget to research the manufacturer. Larger companies often follow higher standards to protect their reputation.
If you’re choosing between rectified and non-rectified tiles, opt for the former. Rectified tiles are carefully inspected for warping and unevenness, and their edges are mechanically finished to allow for tighter grout lines and a more seamless appearance.
Finally, consider the appearance of the tile. High-quality porcelain tiles use high-resolution images that mimic the natural variations found in real wood. Tiles with clear, crisp images are a good sign of quality.
Tile variation is also measured on a scale from V0 to V4. A higher rating, like V4, indicates a tile with more noticeable variations in color and pattern.
And as always, take the time to read customer reviews—they can offer helpful insight into the reliability of both the manufacturer and the tile itself.
2. Color
Color is one of the most impactful factors when choosing tile, both for style and function. The right color can bring warmth, light, or a sense of brightness to your space while also helping to conceal everyday wear and tear. For example, lighter tiles can make a room feel more open and airy, while darker shades create a cozy feel.
Also, if you’re looking to add personality to your kitchen or bathroom, patterned tiles or bold, colorful porcelain options are a great way to make a statement and elevate the room’s design.
3. Size
Tile size plays a major role in how a space looks and feels. Larger tiles create a seamless, expansive appearance, which works especially well in smaller rooms to make them seem bigger. On the other hand, smaller tiles can make a space feel more intimate while adding texture and detail. Consider the scale of your room and the mood you want to achieve when selecting your tile size.
4. Rating
As we’ve mentioned, tiles are graded and rated for both quality and durability, so understanding these standards is key to making the right choice. For durability, we recommend looking for a PEI hardness rating of at least 4, ensuring the tile is tough enough for everyday residential use.
When it comes to quality, tiles are divided into three grades:
- Grade 1 tiles are flawless and the highest quality
- Grade 2 tiles have minor imperfections
- Grade 3 tiles are thinner and best suited for walls
For flooring, stick with Grade 1 or 2 tiles to ensure your space stands the test of time.
5. Pricing Guide
The cost of wood-look tile fluctuates according to quality, type, and durability. High-quality porcelain tiles will cost an average of $6.00-$12.00 per square foot. Customized porcelain can run upwards of $20.00 per square foot.
Better quality ceramic tiles typically range from $5.00-$10.00 per square foot. However, you can find wood-look tiles for much less. Unfortunately, these styles are usually low-quality and cheap-looking. The exception: manufacturer closeouts.
At certain times of the year, you can find amazing deals on quality flooring. When manufacturers and dealers discontinue lines to make room for new styles, they offer deep discounts to move stock. If you’re lucky enough to spot one of these deals, jump on it.
If you’re in the market for wood grain tile, stop by your local home improvement store. Lowe’s and Home Depot have a vast selection of wood-look tile. For a more personal experience, check out your nearest tile shop. In addition to popular brands, you’ll find exclusive lines and endless color choices.
If you know the exact tile you want, shop online with a store like Wayfair for web-only specials.
A quick tip: photographs can be deceiving when it comes to color and texture. Always view the tiles in person before making a purchase. Additionally, remember to order 10-20% more tiles than you think you’ll need. This overage will account for waste, breakage, and any future repairs. Extra tiles can come in handy for touch-ups or future projects. And don’t forget to factor in the cost of grout when calculating your overall expenses.
6. Warranty And Lifetime
If you’ve been comparing different types of flooring, you’ve likely noticed that options like luxury vinyl plank or engineered hardwood often come with warranties lasting 20-25 years. Don’t expect the same from tile. Most tile comes with a limited one-year manufacturer’s warranty that typically only covers defects and often only before the tiles are installed. Once the tiles are on the floor, you’re on your own.
That said, don’t let the limited warranty discourage you. According to the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB), high-quality tiles, when properly maintained, can last anywhere from 75 to 100 years.
7. Installation
The cost of installing wood-look tile varies depending on several factors, with the size of the job being the main consideration. Expect to pay around $5.00 per square foot for labor. Your estimate may or may not include subfloor preparation.
Since tile can’t be installed directly on plywood, your installer will need to add cement board before laying the wood-look tiles. If you already have a cement base, this could save you some money.
However, there’s a catch: for proper installation, your subfloor must be in good condition. Cracked or uneven subfloors need to be repaired, which can be both time-consuming and costly. If a new mortar bed is required, it could take up to 28 days to cure.
Additionally, your subfloor must be free of moisture. If necessary, your installer will recommend applying a waterproof membrane to the cement before tile installation.
Lastly, don’t forget to discuss grout lines with your installer. Thicker grout lines are more durable, while thinner lines offer a more streamlined, natural look. When gathering quotes for installation, be sure to get at least three estimates. While the cheapest option may not always be the best, comparing bids will help you spot any inconsistencies and make an informed decision.
Why Hire a Professional Wood Look Tile Flooring Installer
- Professional Installation Is Worth It: Wood-look tile has unique qualities that make professional installation a smart choice. Because tile is a manufactured product, the patterns on each piece may repeat. A professional installer will know how to identify these repetitions and arrange the tiles to avoid a predictable, unnatural look.
- Expert Knowledge of Trends and Standards: Professionals stay up to date with the latest installation methods and industry standards. This ensures your new flooring aligns perfectly with your style and delivers long-lasting performance.
- Create a Natural, Realistic Layout: For a more authentic wood-like appearance, pros recommend a random staggered layout during installation. This mimics the natural variation of hardwood planks, creating a more organic flow.
More Wood-Look Tile Flooring Installation Tips
- Start with the Space in Mind: Before choosing wood-look tile, consider the wear and tear of the room along with your design preferences. This ensures you select the perfect product for your space.
- Understand Wall vs. Floor Tiles: Not all tiles are created equal. Some are specifically designed for walls, while others are better suited for floors. Knowing the difference will help you avoid costly mistakes.
- Factor in Durability and Maintenance: Consider how durable and easy-to-maintain the tile needs to be. If the space sees heavy foot traffic or frequent spills, opt for slip-resistant and low-maintenance options.
- Calculate Your Tile Needs: Use a tile calculator or consult with your installer, supplier, or even the manufacturer for guidance on how much tile you’ll need. And don’t forget: always purchase an extra 10% overage to account for mistakes, miscalculations, or unexpected installation challenges.
- Be Budget-Savvy: For smaller projects, like a guest bathroom or an eye-catching entryway, you can splurge on higher-end tiles without breaking the bank. Focus on quality where it matters most.
- Grout Color Matters: Choosing a grout color that closely matches the tile is another trick to achieve a seamless, wood-like finish. It minimizes lines between tiles, helping the floor look more like real wood.
- Seal the Grout, Not the Tile: While porcelain and ceramic tiles don’t need sealing, grout lines do. Sealing grout protects it from moisture and stains, keeping your floors looking their best over time.
Once your tile is down, you’ll want to keep it looking brand new. Here are a few tile cleaning tips to get you started.
8. Maintenance
Wood-look tiles are incredibly easy to maintain, though some homeowners may find cleaning grout lines a bit time-consuming. Thanks to their durable construction, both ceramic and porcelain tiles can handle a variety of cleaners without damage to the surface. Most manufacturers recommend a simple mixture of warm water and a mild floor cleaner for regular upkeep.
For daily cleaning, a static broom or vacuum is your best bet. These tools help capture dust and pet hair from corners or beneath furniture without spreading it into the air.
For deeper cleans, consider investing in a steam mop or a microfiber mop. Steam mops can cut your cleaning time in half, using steam to sanitize the floor without the need for long rinsing sessions.
On the other hand, microfiber mops use less water and are more affordable. If you’re cautious about using steam, a microfiber mop is a great alternative. Don’t forget to scrub the grout lines every few months to keep them looking fresh and free from dirt buildup.
Are you ready to dig into our review section? Good. Here’s a list of customer favorites to get you started.
Wood Look Tile Brands & Reviews
We’ll cover a few of the more popular brands here, and build on this list over time. Don’t see the brand you’re interested in this list? Tell us in the comments, and we’ll look into it.
1. Merola
Merola tile is a U.S. distributor with divisions in New York and New Jersey. In 1999, Merola’s New Jersey division became the national distributor for Home Depot.Merola manufactures wood-look tile in over 40 colors and 20 sizes. This tile is a bit pricey and starts at $6.00 per square foot. You can order Merola tile by stopping by your nearest Home Depot or online at Homedepot.com.
2. Vitromex
Vitromex got its start in Saltillo, Mexico, in 1967. Since then, the company has expanded to six facilities, including a distribution center in Texas. This environmentally-conscious company participates in the Tile Council of North America and complies with ANSI standards.
Vitromex tile offers wood-look tile in 19 different shades ranging from earthy browns to sunbleached grays and whites. Tile prices range between $5.00-$11.00 per square foot. Stop by the company’s website for dealer information and free flooring sample orders.
3. Ragno USA
Ragno USA was started in 1982 and is a division of the Marazzi Group. In addition to ceramic and porcelain, the company also manufactures glass and metal tiles. Ragno USA produces high-resolution wood-look tile using 3D printers and HD ink.
Ragno porcelain wood-look tile is available in 5 different collections and features 17 distinct shades and patterns. Tile sizes range from 4”x 28” up to 12”x 48”. The average price of these tiles is between $5.00-$7.00 per square foot.
You can purchase Ragno tiles online or at retailers throughout the United States.
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Headquartered in Clarksville, Tennessee, Florim USA is one of the largest tile producers in North America. The company prides itself on offering environmentally-friendly, high-quality tiles. In fact, Florim tiles contain up to 40% recycled material.
Florim wood-look tile is available in 6 collections and over 35 colors. If you’re a fan of the driftwood look, be sure to check out the vintage collection. These 36” boards are incredibly detailed and finished with elegant matte glazing.
Florim tile is available at several online stores and flooring outlets throughout the country.
5. MS International
MS International is one of the leading manufacturers and distributors of natural stone and tile. In addition to floor tiles, the company sells stone slabs, sinks, and hardscape materials.
MS International produces 15 collections of wood-look tile. Colors and textures range from whitewashed barn wood to polished mahogany. The Dellano collection offers a unique and stylish pattern in colors such as Moss Gray and Exotic Blue.
Pricing for MS International tile varies by width and collection. You can find this brand online or at big box stores like Home Depot or select flooring retailers.
6. Daltile
Daltile is a subsidiary of Mohawk industries. The company was founded in Dallas, Texas, in 1947 and is the largest ceramic tile supplier in the United States. They operate 11 manufacturing plants and employ over 10,000 people.
Daltile sells 18 collections of wood-look tile in over 75 varieties of colors and shading. The Yorkwood Manor line features stunning barnwood tiles with considerable pattern variation.
Look for Daltile online at Wayfair or at home improvement stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s.
7. Porcelanosa
If you’re looking for high-end tile, head straight for Porcelanosa. Founded in Spain in 1973, this family-owned company is one of the leading manufacturers of luxury tiles. To date, Porcelanosa has over 400 showrooms worldwide.
Porcelanosa carries two wood-look collections: Parker and Seedwood. The Parker collection has over 75 colors in a variety of sizes and textures. Due to their anti-slip finish and frost resistant properties, Parker tiles are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
The Seedwood collection features over 50 colors and patterns to choose from. Like the Parker line, Seedwood can be used in both indoor at outdoor spaces.
While not inexpensive, Porcelanosa tile offers excellent value for your money.
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Marazzi USA has been making tile in the U.S. for more than. In fact, the company’s namesake built the first Italian-owned ceramic manufacturing plant in the United States. Today, the company has plants in 4 countries and over 6,000 employees.
Marazzi USA is famous for its expansive line of products and cutting-edge designs. Additionally, Marazzi tile is recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council as a sustainable and eco-friendly flooring option.
If you’re looking for variety, Marazzi sells over 20 lines of wood-look tile in hundreds of colors and patterns. Sizes range from small mosaics to large expansive planks.
You can find Marazzi tile at flooring retailers and big box stores across the United States. Prices vary by location but expect to pay between $2.00-$5.00 per square foot for this wood-look tile.
Other Brand Mentions: DuraCeramic, LifeProof Tile, Style Selections, Tesoro Wood-Look
Are you still on the fence? If you’re unsure whether or not wood grain tile is right for your home, there are alternatives to consider. Here are three comparable options:
Wood-Look Tile Alternatives
Luxury Vinyl Plank
Luxury Vinyl Plank is both affordable and durable. It’s softer than ceramic or porcelain but performs well in high-traffic areas. Vinyl plank is warmer than traditional tile, and since most products are water-resistant, it’s safe for damp areas.
Laminate
Another low-cost alternative to wood-look tile is laminate. Laminate flooring has come a long way since the 70s. It’s inexpensive and comes in a wide array of colors and tones. Unfortunately, laminate hates moisture, so if you’re installing this kind of flooring in a damp area… keep looking.
Hardwood
Nothing beats the beauty of natural hardwood. The color and grain variations found in nature are hard to replicate. If dampness or scratch resistance isn’t a concern, and you’re considering hardwood vs tile flooring – wood is the obvious choice.
Notable mention: Bamboo, Concrete, Cork
Have we covered everything? Surely there are a few more important questions? Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions about wood-look tile flooring.
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Talk To A Floor Critics ProFAQs About Wood-Look Tile Flooring
If you’re after the highest quality wood-look tile, porcelain is likely your best bet over ceramic. Porcelain clay is denser and less porous than ceramic, making it a harder, more water-resistant tile, though it comes at a higher price.
Porcelain is especially ideal for wet areas or if you’re considering underfloor heating, while more affordable ceramic tiles are perfectly suited for most home environments.
Is Wood-Look Tile Expensive?
While wood-look tile is generally more affordable to install than solid or engineered wood floors, it isn’t the cheapest option available. Expect to pay between $6.00 and $12.00 per square foot for wood-look tile, compared to $22.00 per square foot for solid wood flooring.
That said, it’s still more budget-friendly than luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, which can mimic wood at a cost of $3.00 to $7.00 per square foot. Plus, LVP can often be installed by a DIY enthusiast, unlike solid wood or tile, which usually require professional installation.
With wood-look tile, you’re paying for durability, easy maintenance, and excellent cleaning ease.
Is Wood-Look Tile Flooring Cold In Winter?
Yes! While wood-look tile can offer a cool feel during the warmer months, it can feel quite chilly underfoot during winter. A great solution to this is underfloor heating, which is compatible with most tile systems and will keep your floors cozy year-round.
What Is The Best Flooring That Looks Like Wood?
It might sound like a trick question, but the flooring that truly “looks like wood” is solid wood itself. Solid wood flooring offers timeless style, increases home value, and can last over a century.
However, solid wood is not always practical. It can warp in wet areas like bathrooms, attract mold, and doesn’t mix well with underfloor heating due to temperature fluctuations. Additionally, it’s prone to damage from pets, shoes, and heavy traffic.
For a durable alternative, wood-look tile is a solid choice. It’s resistant to scratches, water, and heat, and has a long lifespan. But if budget or DIY installation is more important to you, options like luxury vinyl plank flooring might be a better fit.
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Get a Local Flooring ProNow that we have addressed your final burning questions, it appears we’ve reached the end of our journey. Hopefully, we have answered your questions and provided you with enough information to make your decision. But before you go, let’s sum up what we’ve covered.
Closing Thoughts
Wood-look tile is a beautiful flooring option. And, if you have children or pets, wood-look tile offers you the stylish look of hardwood without the worry. This type of tile gives you the best of both worlds and it’s affordable.
There are some ups and downs to this flooring choice, but for many, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Tile is great for anyone who doesn’t want to devote hours to cleaning. Because it stands the test of time, it’s a good investment.
Remember to check the hardness rating of your tile to ensure it’s durable enough for your home. And for added peace of mind, look for tile that carries a manufacturer warranty as well as safety certifications.
To sum it up, flooring – as always – is an expensive purchase. Make sure whatever tile you choose ultimately suits your style and your needs.
If you have any comments or first-hand experiences with Wood Look Like flooring, please post them below or share your pictures via our social media.