Tile countertops have character and are often cheaper than other countertop materials. They also resist scratches, and sometimes even heat, and if you do damage them, they’re easy to fix.
One of the drawbacks is that they can chip, and the most beautiful handcrafted pieces are on the costlier side. Also, grout may stain if you don’t use epoxy grout, and overall, the surface is going to be uneven, which isn’t for everybody.
Here are the pros and cons of tile countertops to help you decide if they’re right for you.
Pros of Tile Countertops
Very Customizable
Tile lets you come up with creative countertop designs. Tiles come in different shapes and sizes, colors, textures, and designs, allowing you to create anything from a modern, clean design to a highly stylized piece of art.
As an artsy person, I love that you can paint ceramic tiles. You just need some unglazed tiles, acrylic paint primer, acrylic interior paint, paint brushes, painter’s tape, and some sealant. Then you can get creative and transform your countertop into any design you like.
Some Resist Scratches
Ceramic tiles primarily resist scratches, and glazed tiles are least likely to become damaged by hard impacts. Porcelain is also a durable, scratch-resistant material. Don’t get crazy, though. If your countertop is a working surface, don’t cut or pound things directly on the tile.
When it comes to natural stone tiles, it depends on the stone. Granite, for example, resists scratches well but usually needs sealant. And glass tiles are prone to scratches, so if you’re looking for scratch resistance, avoid them.
Some Resist Stains
Some tile materials, like porcelain, ceramic, and sealed granite (and certain kinds of non-sealed granite) repel stains well. So even though cleaning grout may be annoying (which we’ll get to later), the tiles themselves are easy to keep in mint condition.
Easy to Fix
If you damage your tile countertop, you probably only need to replace one or two tiles. That’s a relatively easy job. With some countertops, like laminate, you’d have to replace the whole thing.
Affordable
Most tile countertops cost between $1 and $50 per square foot, plus labor. You can even get a granite tile countertop for a pretty low price of around $6 per square foot. Labor to install tile countertops is around $12 to $15 per square foot.
The more expensive options are glazed, porcelain, or handcrafted. Handcrafted, hand-painted artisan pieces may cost up to $225 per square. Nevertheless, tile countertops are among the cheapest on the market, cheaper than other low-cost options like laminate.
Some Tiles Resist Heat
A porcelain tile countertop withstands heat from pots and pans. Just use a trivet for cookware that emits heat for a long time, like Crock Pots. Glass and natural stone like granite also resist heat. However, you should seal granite countertops for an extra layer of protection.
Ceramic tiles are just moderately good at resisting heat, so use a trivet under hot items to be safe. Also, don’t expose ceramic tile countertops to sudden temperature changes or cookware that emits heat for long periods of time.
While most tiles tolerate heat to some extent, I’d suggest that you don’t place hot pots directly on them.
Cons of Tile Countertops
Difficult to Clean
Grout tends to stain because it’s porous. You can clean it with a stiff-bristled brush and a mixture of vinegar and water. Additionally, bacteria can become trapped in this porous surface. You should seal your countertop at least annually.
All in all, cementitious grout is extremely difficult to keep clean, even for professional cleaners. But there’s another solution: epoxy grout. Epoxy grout is not porous and is better suited for the job.
Prone to Chips
Tiles can chip or crack from heavy loads or impacts. You should be prepared for that, and use your tile countertop carefully. Understand that you may have to repair countertops every so often.
Not Everyone’s Aesthetic
Handcrafted tile countertops can be beautiful. Just remember that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and your custom look may not appeal to everyone. Today’s custom design may fall out of fashion over time, and it may even turn off potential buyers when you go to sell the house.
Uneven Surface
You may become annoyed with your countertop being uneven rather than a smooth surface. If you get natural stone porcelain tiles and want to cut on them, the uneven surface may bother you. Choose larger tiles for fewer problems with the uneven surface.
Are Tile Countertops Right for You?
Tile countertops are great if you want a unique look with a handcrafted design. You can also pick a material that resists scratches, stains, and heat and is easily replaced if damaged. Additionally, they’re a good option if you’re on a budget.
Cleaning the grout can be a drag, however. And tiles can chip and crack. If you’re considering tile, carefully consider whether it meets your needs for durability, practicality, and style.
When picking the right countertop, there’s lots to think about. Check out:
- Concrete Countertops: Pros and Cons
- Granite Countertops: Pros and Cons
- Laminate Countertops: Pros and Cons
- Marble Countertops: Pros and Cons
- Quartz Countertops: Pros and Cons
- Stainless Steel Countertops: Pros and Cons
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Main Image Credit: DifferR / Adobe Stock Free / License
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