If you are interested in wood flooring but don’t think that it will be durable enough for your home, an expert may have suggested that you consider wood-look tile flooring.

But how can tile look and feel like wood? You’ll be surprised at just how authentic these tiles look and even feel when texture and tone are added.

Wood-look tile can be an excellent alternative to hardwood floors if you are looking for something affordable, durable, and with long life, and which can also deal with water and changes in temperature.

But tiles can be difficult to install and generally comes 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 benefits and drawbacks, how much you can expect to pay, and what is involved in the installation.

We will also review some of the best brands on the market, and compare wood-like tiles with other wood-look flooring solutions. We’ll finish by answering the most-often-asked questions about wood-look tiles, so that you have all the information you need to make a decision.

This article is broken up into the following sections. Feel free to read it in its entirety or bookmark this page for future reference.

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Wood-Look Tile Pros

  1. Value
  2. Durability
  3. Maintenance
  4. Versatility
  5. Variety
  6. Allergy-Friendly
  7. Pet-Friendly
  8. Eco-Friendly

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1. 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.

Wood-Look Tile Pros

And that’s just the beginning. When shopping for hardwood, you may have to sacrifice style for savings. But tile is less expensive to produce, so you can often purchase larger tile planks for the same price as smaller formats.

Similarly, your tile’s coloring rarely affects the price tag. Unlike wood, which is separated into species, tile is priced more consistently. Which means, you probably won’t pay any more for replicated mahogany than you would for knotty pine.

2. Durability

It’s a fact. Tile is one of the most durable flooring materials you can buy. 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).

Let’s be honest. Hardwood is beautiful but downright exhausting to maintain. You must be careful of scratches, mindful of spills, and absolutely diligent on your dirt game. If you’re not cautious, your investment will look old and tired within months.

Yes, you can refinish hardwood, but who has the time?

So, what’s the alternative? Tile that looks exactly like wood, but without the prissy attitude. It can handle your clumsy spouse, take on your temperamental toddler, and stand up to your feisty fur babies.

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.

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3. Maintenance

Tile is ridiculously easy to maintain. You won’t need fancy tools or expensive cleaners. A regular tile mop and static broom or tile vacuum will work fine.

And unlike many other types of flooring, tile can hold up to water and moisture. You shouldn’t flood your floors – but, if they get wet, they won’t warp or buckle.

As far as cleaning products go, be careful which ones you use. Acidic and abrasive cleaners can break down grout and cause damage. Your best bet is to stick with mild soap and warm water.

4. Versatility

Do you long for versatile flooring that can go anywhere in your home? If so, wood-look tile fits the bill. You can install tile in bathrooms, kitchens, mudrooms, and even basements.

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.

You will, however, need to make sure your subfloor is even and free of cracks. It’s also imperative you waterproof the subfloor and seal the grout to prevent water from becoming trapped underneath.

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

If you’re craving a flooring solution that allows for endless possibilities, wood-look tile is an excellent option. Not only can you get flooring to match your favorite species of hardwood, but you can also customize the color. That’s right – many high-end tile manufacturers will tailor a design to your specifications.

Even if you can’t afford to splurge on customization, you’ll find a wide selection of tones and textures to suit your style. In addition to the colors found in nature, you can buy tile that mirrors sun-bleached or weathered boards.

And if that’s not enough variety, most flooring manufacturers sell tile in multiple widths and lengths. So, if you’re in love with wide-plank hardwood or cork, you’ll have no trouble replicating that look with tile.

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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 issue 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 wise pet-friendly flooring option for the dog or cat owner who worries about scratches and scuff marks. Even if you have large dogs, quality tile won’t scratch like hardwood can. And unlike other surfaces, your cat can’t shred it or use it as a scratching post.

Plus, if your pet has an accident, it’s simple to clean and it won’t hold the odor. Just be sure to scrub the grout too.

If you install wood-look tile, don’t forget to purchase a cozy bed for your pet. Tile flooring is hard and cold to sleep on.

One more piece of advice: if you share your home with four-legged occupants, opt for medium- to light-colored tile. Darker floors will show every strand of hair (already have this problem? See these pet hair vacuums) and every tiny paw-print.

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8. Eco-Friendly

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

  1. Installation
  2. Temperature
  3. Comfort
  4. Slippery

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1. Difficult Installation

Installing wood-like tile isn’t for the casual weekend warrior. For one, it takes a trained eye to spot hairline cracks or imperfections in the subfloor. If your subfloor is damaged, the tile will look and feel uneven.

Secondly, an inadequate subfloor can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. A trained installer will know how to protect your tile from dampness and water damage properly.

Finally, wood-look tile can be tricky to layout. You’ll need to stagger the pattern and blend tones to achieve a realistic and appealing design. Not to mention spacing the grout lines consistently throughout the rows requires the patience of a saint.

Unless you’re prepared to sort through boxes of tile, it’s best to let a pro handle the install.

2. Temperature

Tile is notoriously cold to step on. If you live in a cooler climate, tile floors can be downright painful – especially first thing in the morning.

Thankfully, there’s a solution for those who hate the cold but love the look of tile. Since wood-look tile is an extremely affordable flooring choice, you could always splurge on radiant underfloor heating.

Underfloor heating systems are not only comfortable, they’re also economical. The combo of wood-look tile and radiant heating: downright decadent. And if buying tile gives you an excuse to install one of life’s little luxuries, all the better.

If radiant heating isn’t in the budget, no worries. You can duplicate that cozy feeling with a fluffy area rug. Remember to add a warm spot for your pet to snooze too.

3. Comfort

If you’ve ever stood on tile for lengthy periods, you know it’s uncomfortable. Tile doesn’t give underfoot like many other types of flooring. If you choose wood-look tile for the kitchen, be sure to buy an anti-fatigue mat for standing at the sink.

Tile is the number one flooring choice for bathrooms. It’s water-resistant and low maintenance, but it’s also hard on your knees if you bathe young children or pets.

Another not-so-fun fact: tile cracks if you drop something heavy onto it. Even if your tile survives the impact, the item you dropped probably won’t.

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4. Slippery

Smooth or polished tiles are slippery to walk on when wet. If you have young children or elderly family members, wet tile poses a significant hazard. Pets may also slip on slick tile.

When choosing tile for a mudroom or bathroom, opt for textured or non-slip varieties.  You can find wood-look tiles in hand-scraped and grooved designs. These styles improve traction in wet areas.

Don’t forget to wear shoes when washing your floor. Not only does this prevent you from slipping, but it also cuts down on footprints. Remember to block off the room until the tile is dry.

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

The most noticeable difference between porcelain and ceramic tile 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.

Porcelain vs. Ceramic

The durability of ceramic tile is rated between one and five on the PEI scale. This scale was developed by the Porcelain Enamel Institute and is used for gauging tile hardness and scratch resistance. If you’re shopping for ceramic floor tiles, look for a rating of three or higher. Tile with a rating of one or two is better suited for wall applications.

When installing wood grain tile in damp areas, porcelain is the better choice. Due to the manufacturing process, porcelain is denser and better at repelling water. Because porcelain is baked at higher temperatures, it wears better than conventional ceramic.

As a bonus, you can even install porcelain tiles in semi-outdoor areas like sunrooms or patios. It’s strong enough to withstand minor temperature fluctuations without cracking.

There are two common types of porcelain tiles: through-body and color-body.  Through-body means the color and pattern run consistently through the porcelain tile. If you accidentally drop something and chip the tile’s surface, it will be less noticeable.

Color-body porcelain retains only its color throughout the body of the tile. The surface layer contains a baked-on coating to give the tile its sheen. If the outer layer is damaged, there will be a slight difference in appearance.

When choosing between ceramic and porcelain tile, consider how and where it will be used. In some instances, it may be worth paying extra for porcelain, but high-quality ceramic is resistant enough for most homes.

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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Quality Guidelines

As we mentioned earlier, density is crucial to determining overall tile quality, but it’s not the only factor. You’ll want to make sure your tile is certified and inspected for quality.

The agencies responsible for grading tile quality and standards are the Tile Council of North America and the Porcelain Tile Certification Agency. The councils comprise industry leaders and manufacturer representatives. This group sets the criteria for the design, production, installation, and safety of ceramic and porcelain tiles.

When shopping for tile, make sure your selection carries a TCNA or PCTA certification mark. In addition to individual certifications, be sure to research your tile manufacturer. Larger companies often adhere to higher standards as their reputation is on the line.

If you find yourself debating between rectified and non-rectified tiles, select the former. Rectified tiles are checked for warping and unevenness. Additionally, the edges of rectified tiles are mechanically finished to allow for tighter grout lines and a seamless look.

Our last quality indicator is appearance. High-quality tiles are made with high-resolution images to mimic the graining and color variations found in natural wood. Tiles with clear images are a surefire sign of quality.

There is a widely used rating chart to gauge a tile’s variation level. The ratings run from V0 to V4. The higher the number, the more variation you can expect; for example, tile with substantial differences will have a grade of V4.

As always, make sure you read online customer reviews. While subjective, they are a good indicator of the manufacturer’s reliability.

Now that you know how to find quality wood-look tile, you’ll need to know how much to pay for it. We’ve outlined some of the cost factors for you in the next section.

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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. Remember: photographs are not a good indicator of tone and texture. Make sure you see the tiles up close before committing to the purchase.

Don’t forget to buy between 10-20% more than you think you’ll need. This overage accounts for waste and damaged tiles. You can save any extra tiles for repairs or reuse them in another project.

One final tip: be sure to include the cost of grout in your overall calculations

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
  2. Vitromex
  3. Ragno
  4. Florim
  5. MSI
  6. Daltile
  7. Porcelanosa
  8. Marazzi

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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.

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.

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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Florim USA

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.

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.

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.

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

Marazzi USA has been making tile in the U.S. for more than 30 years. 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

Once you have decided which tiles are right for you to invest in, how long can you expect them to last, and what kind of warranty comes as standard?

Warranty And Lifetime

If you are looking at a number of different types of flooring, you might have noticed that some flooring, such as luxury vinyl plank and engineered hardwood, come with 20- or 25-year warranties.

Don’t expect to see anything similar to tile. Most tile will come with a limited one-year manufacturer’s guarantee that only covers manufacturer defects and often only covers tiles that have not yet been installed. Once the tiles are on the floor, you are pretty much on your own.

But don’t let this lack of warranty let you think that tiles aren’t good quality. According to the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB), quality tiles that are properly cared for could last 75 to 100 years.

OK, just when you think it’s about to get easier, we’re moving on to discussing the installation process.

Installation Factors

The cost of installing wood-look tile depends on several factors, but mainly the cost is dependent on the size of the job. You can expect to pay about $5.00 per square foot for labor. The estimate you receive may or may not include subfloor preparation.

Since tile can’t be installed directly over plywood, your tile-setter will have to add cement board before setting your wood grain tile. If you already have a cement base, you’ll save a few dollars.

But, there’s a catch.

In order for the tile to set right, your subfloor needs to be in good condition. If the subfloor is cracked or uneven, it will need repairs. This process can be lengthy and expensive. If your installer chooses to pour an entirely new mortar bed, it can take up to 28 days to cure.

In addition to cracks, your floor must be moisture-free. Your tile-setter will advise you if waterproofing is necessary. If it is, contractors will apply a waterproof membrane to the cement before installing your tile.

Don’t forget to discuss grout lines with your tile-setter. Thicker grout lines will hold up better, but thinner lines will have a streamlined natural appearance.

When pricing your installation, aim to get at least three estimates. And while you may not choose the cheapest contractor, you’ll be able to spot the inconsistencies in the bids.

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.

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Maintenance Tips

Wood-look tiles are easy to maintain. Due to their durable construction, you can use a variety of cleaners on both ceramic and porcelain without inflicting surface damage. Most manufacturers suggest using a mixture of warm water and mild floor cleaner.

Maintenance Tips

For everyday cleaning, use a static broom or vacuum. These tools allow you to gather the dust and pet hair hiding in corners or under furniture without scattering it into the air.

You should also invest in a steam mop or microfiber model for deeper cleaning. Steam mops can cut your cleaning time in half. Most models rely on the steam to sanitize the floors, so no need for lengthy rinses.

On the other hand, microfiber mops use less water and cost a fraction of the price. If you’re concerned about using steam on your floors, microfiber mops are a good option. Remember to scrub the grout lines every few months to prevent dirt and discoloration.

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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FAQs About Wood-Look Tile Flooring

What Is The Best Wood-Look Tile?

If you are looking for the best quality wood-look tile, you will probably want to invest in porcelain rather than ceramic.
Porcelain clay is denser and less porous than ceramic clay, and so it makes a harder and more water-resistant tile but also a more expensive one.

You will probably want to invest in porcelain in wet areas and/or if you are looking at underfloor heating, more affordable ceramic tiles work perfectly well in most domestic settings.


Is Wood-Look Tile Expensive?

Wood-look tile is certainly cheaper to install in your home than solid wood or even engineered wood floors. Wood-look tiles will set you back between $6.00-$12.00 per square foot, while you can expect to pay up to $22.00 per square foot for solid wood floors.

But they are certainly not the cheapest option on the market. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, which can also imitate the look and feel of natural wood floors, can be purchased for as little as $3.00-7.00 per square foot.

Also, unlike solid wood and tile flooring that require professional installation, a reasonably experienced DIY handyman can install LVP themselves.

With wood-look tile, you are paying for the durability, reliability, ease of cleaning, and easy maintenance.


Is Wood-Look Tile Flooring Cold In Winter?

The short answer to this question is yes! While you might appreciate the cooling effect of tiles in the hoot summer months, they can feel like walking on ice in winter.

Underfloor ambient heating can be a good way to deal with this problem, and most tiles are compatible with this kind of heating system.


What Is The Best Flooring That Looks Like Wood?

This feels like a trick question. The best feeling that looks like wood is solid wood! Wood is timeless in style, adds value to your home, and has a lifespan of more than 100 years.

But solid wood is not always a realistic option. It can be particularly problematic in wet or moist spaces such as bathrooms as the water can warp the wood and it can start to grow mold. It is also generally not compatible with underfloor heating as the changes in temperature can also warp the wood.

Hardwood floors also aren’t ideal for homes with pets or that will receive a lot of heavy traffic, as it is easily scarred by pet nails, shoes, and other impacts.

Which alternative to wood is best depends on what you are looking for. Wood-look tile is a good choice if you are looking for something durable that won’t scratch, has a long lifespan, and can deal with the issues of water and heating.

But if you are looking for something highly affordable or that you can install yourself, there are other alternatives that will probably make a better choice, such as luxury vinyl plank flooring.

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Now 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.

About Fortino Rosas

Chief Floor Critic, 32 years of experience in flooring installation and sales Fortino Rosas is an independent flooring contractor with 32 years of experience in residential and commercial flooring installation and sales. He joined the Floor Critics team to share his expertise with our readers. Fortino has acquired vast knowledge and skills in the areas of product selection, space planning, and installation. He has installed flooring in residential, government, and commercial office projects in the Midwest.

51 thoughts on “Wood Look Tile Flooring: Reviews, Best Brands & Pros vs. Cons”

  1. Have you reviewed Shaw tile flooring? We are in the process of deciding which tile to select and wondering how it compares to Marazzi.

  2. Arneada Russell

    How does either ceramic or porcelain tile floors affect heating in winter? You say the floors are very cold. I plan to replace flooded hardwood in my townhome livingroom, dining room and kitchen with wood look tile. I don’t want the house to feel colder or pay more for heating because of the tile. Live in Atlanta, GA. Thanks.

  3. Looking into Avella tile sold at Lumber Liquidators, but want to make sure its lead-free and not made in China. Can’t seem to find that information, and given LL’s history, this concerns me. Any info on this brand?
    M

    1. I was told it is made in Spain. Anything that you have found in your research would be great to hear back from you as I am looking at putting it in my whole house .

  4. What color is best to not see footprints or mopping streaks? We are looking at Daltile Willow Blend smoky brown. I am thinking this is too dark, would a gray work better?

    1. I’m having about 2000 sq ft. Of light gray wood plank look tile installed and can you tell me how to seal the grout. The grout is a medium dark gray. Also what will leave a streak free look after cleaning. I was told just water and white vinegar, do you know if that’s a good option, or perhaps Murphy’s soap. I have always had good luck with that cleaner but not sure how it would work on tile.

      1. I’ve been told from tile company to not use vinegar or anythi g acidic on the tile to clean because the acid is bad on the grout. Hot soap and water is what they told me.

  5. Help we are stuck! We have an 1860 Farmhouse with original wide plank eastern pine flooring in all of our house except for our kitchen which we are remodeling. We would love to install wide plank eastern knotty pine in our kitchen, but because it’s the kitchen, heavily traveled and because we have a 130 hooch like dog we think we need something more durable. This all being said can you please tell me what tile company has the widest most realistic wood plank tiles? Also we were thinking maybe getting a barn wood look tile, so it doesn’t compete with our eastern knotty real wood flooring? Any suggestions to what tile company might have the tile we are looking for? Thanks very much!

  6. Want to install rectified PEI 5, 8″ x 48″ porcelain wood planks, Ashford brand name (manufactured in Italy, sold by Floor & Decor) on outdoor second level deck being converted to 3-season porch, over open patio below. Porch will have Eze-Breez windows and door to keep out rain and snow. Will retain existing deck joists on 12″ centers, but install new 3/4″ T&G subfloor and 1/4″ Duralock. Unheated space. Tile is 10.5 mm thick. Do you think this tile install will hold up to the temp changes (Lower Mid-Atlantic area)? Any additional recommendations?

  7. Input please about porceclain wood planks, Florida Tile Home Collection, Wind River Beige sold at Home Depot? Is this TCNA or PCTA certified? Rectified? Rating?

    I learned so much from your information. Thank you in advance for providing additional information regarding this manufacturer. Linda

    1. How would you rate the Ridge brand of porcelain wood-look tile. Also is there anything else you can tell me about this brand?

  8. Christina Rogers

    Considering changing flooring to tile but am worried about our dog and her bones. She likes to toss her bones in the air and they land heavy on the floor. Could this possibly be an issue with cracking or chipping the tiles?

    1. I have a large dog and all tile flooring. It is more durable than you may think. I’ve dropped a can of peas, dog food, etc. and it didn’t leave a mark, chip or dent. I always keep a few extra tiles in storage in case I have to replace a chipped or broken tile (which I haven’t had to do yet 12 years later). The only drawback is the grout discoloring. I learned the hard way that the grout will dry lighter than the sample indicates. Grout will inevitably get dirty and is a pain to clean so I definitely recommend going with a darker grout if possible or be prepared for hours of scrubbing grout lines with a toothbrush on your hands and knees. Even with that I’d pick tile over hardwood, laminate or vinyl any day! It really does hold up forever.

    1. Absolutely… just insure it’s a rectified quality tile and ensure you look at smaller lengths as your installer will need to pitch your floors to the drain. Look at utilizing a linear drain system on an end side which will resolve the old school method of a centered shower drain and allow your wood planks to run and look as they should. Good luck with you Project.
      FLRealEstateGuy

  9. Can the ceramic wood tile be installed over a wooden floor as long as there is unerlayment. I don’t want the original wood removed.

    However, there are some uneven areas and even some cracks. How can this be addressed?

  10. The article says that you lay the tile on the concrete, unlike floating engineered hardwood floors. Any idea how it holds in earthquake prone zones like California?

  11. Just wondering if you have any reviews on Florida Tile, Berkshire line? We were recently quoted $6.19 sf but would like more info on durability. Thanks!

  12. Thinking of installing in a bathroom, but how does one finish the edges? Wood baseboard doesn’t sound ideal due to moisture nor do corner tiles aesthetically for a painted wall.

    1. Wood baseboard is actually a fine choice. If you’re really concerned about moisture, put two coats of primer on the back and bottom edge of the wood before installation. Or choose a PVC or polyurethane baseboard. And use a good quality color-matched (to the grout or the baseboard, your choice) silicone caulk at the tile to baseboard joint. I like Latasil. I normally keep bathroom baseboard above the tile about 1/8″ so it can’t get wet from incidental water or mopping, the gap gets filled with the caulk joint. Tip for silicone caulk: use a bowl of denatured alcohol to wet your finger for smoothing instead of using water or spit.

      You also have other options. Some tiles have bullnose pieces available, which work fine as baseboard if they’re tall enough and meet your aesthetics. There are also some stone and other baseboard pieces, but beware that they tend to be pricey. I put a marble floor in my half bathroom about 2 years ago and splurged for the shaped marble baseboard pieces. I love them, but they were about $14 per linear foot because the shape is milled from solid marble. The upside is that they’re beautiful and very durable (well, as durable as marble, which is soft as far as stone goes but doesn’t dent/scuff like painted wood).

      Of course, you can’t reasonably thinset baseboard to drywall and expect it to last. In bathrooms I want to be bullet (ahem, child and pet) proof, I always tile up the wall some amount. Often I’m judging the height by ‘just enough to provide backsplash for a pedestal sink’. Sometimes I get lucky and that means I’m just removing the bottom row of sheetrock and replacing with 1/2″ Hardie Board. Way more work than just a floor, but can be DIYed if you’re handy and patient.

  13. Another question or two about wood look porcelain tiles and pets. What is the concern about large dogs? What about pet accidents– would the smell get into the grout, and if so, how do you get rid of the smell?

    1. It is a little late for me, I have already installed the wood look tiles over half of my house. But, my concern is for the finish to wear off or scratch off from the scooting of dining room chairs, etc.. Any thoughts or experience with that. I know, I should have asked before I took the plunge. Thanks in advance for your response.

  14. Regarding dogs and tile floors, we have had tile floors in our kitchen for 20 years and have always had 80lb. Old English sheepdogs. True, at times they do scramble a bit to get up if they are excited, and we do keep a dog pillow in the kitchen for them to lay on, but overall I would not exchange tile floors for anything else. It is so easy to clean especially if they have wet or muddy paws, and still looks good all these years later.

    1. We have a Portuguese Water Dog with a particularly troublesome arthritic wrist. We spend several months a year in a home with tile floors. Every time we’re there, after 2 or 3 weeks she shows evidence of her wrist hurting her, and tile flooring is the only change. If you walk around on a tile floor for a time without shoes the bones in your feet may get sore, Hard tile floors can be equally hard on joints of animals.

    1. I have 140# Great Pyrenees if your tile is smooth it can be very difficult for them to get up but it’s the same with smooth wood floors they “scramble” to get a grip to get up. Gets even more difficult as they age. I just got flooded in Houston and am planning on replacing all floors with a textured wood like tile and the coolness is good down here. I know for Simba the hardness nor coolness is no big deal! He gets out of his comfy bed to lay on the tile!

    2. I think the author was implying that the hard floor means things are more likely to break if they fall on the floor. So if you have a dog who knocks things over it may not be good. But I am looking at this floor as a cleaner & more durable alternative for our dog

    1. If you’re only interested in your own ease and comfort then ceramic and porcelain tiles or natural stone flooring is definitely the best floor for dogs and cats. Tough, stain resistant, water resistant and easy to clean this type of flooring can stand up to anything. Cats won’t mind it too much either, they can always find a soft chair or bed to curl up on, but dogs can find a tile or stone floor pretty hard and uncomfortable. Cold too unless you have radiant underfloor heating, if you go with tile or stone be sure to get plenty of rugs put down in strategic places.

    2. Have two large very active golden retrievers and 1 shepherd with tile floors for over 24 years. Sami dogs, running and playing dogs are no issue for hard tile floors.

  15. I recently purchased a condo in Bonita Bay in Bonita Springs, Fl. I know I want to paint the majority of the walls in Gray Owl ( Benjamin Moore ). I am looking for porcelain wood plank tile in a lighter tone that would go with this paint color. I am going for a Scandinavian , minimalistic look. And if possible I would like the tile in both 6 and 8 or 9 inch widths. Any suggestions would be extremely helpful. And because we only stay there for four months per year I also need to consider cost.

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