Mosaic Tiles Vs Ceramic Tiles

Mosaic Tiles Vs Ceramic Tiles

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Are you unsure of the difference between mosaic tiles and ceramic tiles? Maybe you are looking for new tiles and can’t decide between these two options? Choosing tiles for your home can be tricky, but it doesn’t need to be.

Today, we are here to walk you through the difference between mosaic and ceramic tiles to help you pick the perfect one for your space.

What Are Mosaic Tiles?

Mosaic tiles are patterns or designs made with small pieces of coloured stone, ceramics, or glass. These tiles might feature metal, porcelain, glass, or mixed materials to create their design.

Mosaic tiles have been used since ancient Mesopotamia to decorate surfaces. The Greeks and Romans used them to decorate large flooring areas with mythological symbols and characters. Over time, the designs on mosaic tiles may have changed, but their striking appearance has not.

These tiles work well on flooring, as a focal point of your kitchen or bathroom, or even outdoors.

What Are Ceramic Tiles?

Ceramic tiles are another tile that has been used for centuries. Ceramic tiles are usually made from clay, sand, and water to create a beautiful tile that can be placed anywhere in your home. These tiles are waterproof and non-absorbent, making them perfect for your kitchen or bathroom. They are also ideal for use outside if they are treated and maintained, creating a beautiful patio.

Ceramic tiles come in a variety of sizes, with the most popular sizes listed below:

    • 12” x 24”
    • 24” x 24”
    • 12” x 48”

Ceramic tiles can be purchased in many colours, but its natural stone colour remains popular. Ceramic in natural stone is a cheaper option than stone tiles, but it has durability that allows you to use it worry-free anywhere in your home.

Ceramic tiles come in three options: glazed, wall, and floor. All these have a slightly different finish, from matte to glossy so that you can find the perfect tile for your space.

Mosaic Tiles Vs Ceramic Tiles – Which Is Better?

Deciding which tile is better for your space depends on your space and your intended use of the tiles. Mosaic tiles are a better option if you want to make them a focal point and prefer the look of smaller tiles to larger ones, but ceramic tiles come with added durability and waterproof features that make them ideal for bathroom use.

We have the pros and cons of both tiles below to help you see whether mosaic or ceramic tiles are better for you.

Pros Of Mosaic Tiles

  • The materials used are eco-friendly with no harmful substances, making them safe to use at home
  • The anti-slip and wear resistance of the tiles make them a good option for outdoor use near pools
  • The natural stones are super durable, providing you with years of use without worrying about cracks or other damages
  • The variety of beautiful designs allows you to have unique tiles in your home that can be a focal point

Pros Of Ceramic Tiles

  • The tiles are super durable, providing you with years of use without worrying about damages
  • The waterproof design allows you to place them in walk-in showers and bathrooms without worrying about moisture leaking into the walls
  • The non-absorbent design makes them ideal for use as a kitchen splashback, preventing oils and grease from damaging your tiles
  • The variety of design options allows you to find the colour and size that perfectly fits your needs
  • The non-allergenic design makes them suitable for use without worrying about allergies

Cons Of Mosaic Tiles

  • There are more grout lines, which require more cleaning and maintenance
  • They are tricky to install, and you will likely need to hire a professional to ensure the mosaics are installed evenly
  • They can be more expensive per square foot than other tiles, with higher installation costs

Cons Of Ceramic Tiles

  • The heavy design makes installing them tricky, and can be a risk of injury, especially if you drop a tile
  • The tiles can feel cold, especially when using them as flooring, and underfloor heating may need to be considered
  • The tiles can feel hard underfoot, causing discomfort when walking through your home barefoot, and can cause damage when items are dropped onto the tiles

Final Thoughts

When deciding which tile to use in your space, consider the differences outlined today. While mosaic and ceramic tiles can be beautiful, they will last longer and require less maintenance, making them a fine choice for low-maintenance homes.