This can be a fantastic solution for people who feel they don't want to commit to purchasing a full wooden floor which can be difficult to maintain and may not always suit the environment. It is also often a cheaper alternative to wooden flooring which is fantastic if you want that natural look, but you're on a budget.
Ceramic or porcelain tiles are also much more durable than wooden tiles so you don't have the issue of chips or dents and you don't have to awkwardly ask friends to remove high heels when they come over either.
Are all the benefits completely true?
There are some key positives that aren't entirely relevant to wood look floor tiles so it's always worth exploring all your options before you commit, thinking it's your only choice.
The three main advantages of; better underfloor heating, cost effectiveness and easy maintenance, and the fact it's easier to find the size of 'plank' you want, are largely debatable.
Ceramic or porcelain wood look tiles are fantastic for underfloor heating systems but that doesn't mean you can't achieve the same result with a wooden floor, you just have to select the right type of natural wood. And it is true there is an extensive range of tile widths and lengths available to choose from, but the natural wooden floor market is growing and offering more selection than ever now.
In regards to the cost, it really does vary depending on what type of finish you want. While some tiles will be much cheaper than wooden floors, higher quality designs may well come in at a higher price than natural wood floor tiles.
The easy maintenance benefit is definitely true as there is a huge selection of surface specific cleaning equipment and products on the market which make it easier to maintain. However, there are also now a lot more products available to help you maintain wooden floors so, the difference between the two is marginal.
Is it for me?
Whether you want to invest in ceramic or porcelain tiles, or opt for a real wooden floor you'll have a lot of considerations to make. The climate of your home will affect which floor is most suitable for you as well as how you use the room you want to put the flooring in. Ceramic tiles are fantastic in the summer months but some people hate having them in winter because they stay cold. Wooden floors feel warmer underfoot, but don't deal with certain environments very well and also have the potential to swell or shrink, as well as potentially suffering from infestations.
The best thing you can do is decide what look you want and then prioritise your practical needs. You can then look at all your options before making a decision. There are lots of innovative and unusual designs of porcelain floor tiles that look like wood flooring so it's worth doing your research. With so many companies creating beautiful tiles for this trend, you shouldn't struggle to find something you love.
