Hardwood Vs Tile: Comparing The Two Options

So you’re considering getting new flooring but can’t decide between tile and hardwood? 

Understandably, there are dilemmas between these two options, as they both have their pros and cons. 

Hardwood is undisputed when it comes to its lifespan and aesthetic appeal. It can bring a completely new look and feel to a room, adding a distinct, classy aesthetic to your household. 

Tile, on the other hand, offers more versatility design-wise, and the fact that you don’t have to worry about water damage is a big plus. 

In this article, we’ll compare the cost, durability, and maintenance of tile and hardwood and give you examples of areas of your home where you can install these flooring types.

Tile vs. Hardwood

Tile and hardwood each offer unique benefits and characteristics as flooring options. Knowing what sets them apart is crucial in determining which of these you should get for your space.

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring adds a classic and warm ambiance to any room. It can be made of either solid or engineered wood. 

The difference between the two is that solid wood is made entirely from hardwood planks, while engineered wood has a top layer of hardwood veneer placed upon layers of high-density fiberboard (HDF for short). 

Engineered options are usually cheaper and more water resistant, making them more dimensionally stable, which is just another way of saying they are less likely to warp or expand in fluctuating humidity levels.

On the other hand, solid hardwood’s lifespan is incomparable to engineered hardwood’s. It can be sanded and refinished multiple times, meaning that this flooring will last decades.

Tile Flooring

Versatility is where tile flooring shines. Whether you are looking for a contemporary, rustic, or traditional look, tiles can be found in a vast array of textures, colors, and sizes to match virtually any design choices of your home. 

Aesthetic Appeal and Comfort

Hardwood Flooring

Nothing matches hardwood when it comes to elegance and timeless appeal. These floors bring something to the table that no other flooring option does and it’s hard to describe – it’s more of a feeling that hardwood flooring can invoke in a person.

When it comes to comfort, hardwood is warmer underfoot compared to tile, which can make a significant difference in colder months.

Tile Flooring

As mentioned previously, tile floors offer more design choices than hardwood. Options range from sleek and modern porcelain to rugged natural stone. 

Maintenance and Durability

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood is susceptible to scratches and dents, although it depends on the type of hardwood you’re getting. It’s unfair to say that all hardwood floors are prone to scratches because the difference in hardness between, say, hickory and cherry is staggering. 

To keep it simple, furniture pads will go a long way in keeping your hardwood floors spotless and dent-free. 

Frequent cleaning is a must to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime that can eventually damage the floor’s finish.

Tile Flooring

Tile is resistant to moisture and wear, which makes it a way better option than hardwood in rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms, although the grout between tiles does require regular cleaning to prevent staining and mold growth. 

Furthermore, chipped or broken tiles can be replaced, although matching older tiles can sometimes prove to be a challenging job. 

Lifespan

Hardwood Flooring

Solid hardwood floors can quite literally last a lifetime. Some hardwood floors in renowned buildings like the Palace of Versailles in France have remained the same for hundreds of years.  

Engineered wood generally has a shorter lifespan of approximately 20 to 30 years.

Tile Flooring

The lifespan of tile flooring can vary, with high-quality ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone options lasting anywhere from 20 to over 50 years. 

Natural stone tiles are particularly robust, often outlasting their manufactured counterparts.

Differences in Cost

Hardwood Flooring

The cost of hardwood flooring ranges depending on whether you choose solid or engineered wood. 

Prices can also vary significantly based on wood species and finish. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $6 per square foot for lower-end options to $20 or more for higher-end hardwood options.

Tile Flooring

Tile flooring’s cost is determined by the tile’s material (ceramic, porcelain, natural stone) and complexity of the design, therefore the price fluctuates a lot more than with hardwood.

If we were to keep it simple, the low-end tile options cost about $2, medium-end tiles can cost $20-30, and higher-end options can cost $50 or even more per square foot.

Installation

Hardwood Flooring

Generally simpler to install, hardwood flooring often features interlocking designs that facilitate easier and faster installation processes.

Tile Flooring

Installation of tile can be more labor-intensive, requiring precise cuts and alignments. 

The complexity of the pattern and the hardness of the material can further complicate the installation process.

Final Verdict

Choosing between hardwood and tile floors can seem difficult, as both are fantastic, long-lasting materials that can add beauty and value to your home. So which should you choose? 

It all comes down to your specific needs. Do you want a low-maintenance, waterproof flooring material that’s durable and can go almost anywhere? Tile flooring may be perfect for your home. 

Want to add warmth, comfort, and a great resale value in a cool, dry area? Then hardwood flooring is the right choice for you!