Natural stone vs ceramic tile in shower

Should you use ceramic tiles in showers?

Before we learn about the natural stone in showers, let's focus first on the pros and cons of using ceramic tiles in that area. These kinds of products are man-made from white or red clay, which is then kiln-fired where it hardens. Tiles can be glazed or unglazed, but the unglazed options are very porous and quickly absorb any liquids and stains. That is why they should be sealed right away or not used in the bathroom at all. It is important to remember that ceramic tiles are available in five grades, which describe their strength, ability to withstand foot traffic and resistance to other factors such as high and low temperatures. Grade 1 products are of the highest quality, and those of Grade 5, the lowest. As we mentioned, tiles are man-made, which allows the manufacturers to create a uniform pattern on them and make sure it is consistent throughout the whole batch. Because of this manufacturing process, ceramic tiles are overall cheaper than natural stone. However, the costs may vary depending on the class, style as well as finish of the particular models. Remember to be mindful of the product you are choosing because not every ceramic tile is resistant to temperature changes that can appear in the shower.

Learn more about natural stone in showers

More and more homeowners decide to install natural stone in showers, and for a good reason too. Nowadays, manufacturers offer numerous stone types, which can be used in the bathroom, both on the walls and the floor. As a result, clients can choose from such refined varieties as Marble, Granite, Quartz, Travertine, Limestone, Slate, Sandstone or Onyx. The addition of a simple sealant on the top will guarantee that the surface is resistant to water and any stains and will work excellently in the shower. Natural stone, as the name suggests, is obtained from the earth and is known to be one of the most durable materials. It offers completely unrepeatable patterns, which only add to the charming and chic feel of the space where it is used. Due to its uniqueness and unrivalled durability to wear and water, natural stone is perceived as a luxury material. Of course, this material is more expensive than ceramic tiles, which will mean a higher investment in the bathroom. However, it is vital to remember that this feature can increase your home’s market value way more than ceramic tiles.

Remember that the selection between natural stone vs ceramic tile in the shower depends on your needs as well as the budget you want to allocate to the bathroom design. Which one will you choose?

You want some more inspiration? See our previous article: 4 interior stone cladding ideas