Remodeling Your Bathroom On A Budget? Your Complete Guide To Tile Selection

A bathroom remodel can cost you as much as $50,000, a huge portion of which will go toward flooring and a shower surround. Depending on which materials you choose, you can spend a good bit of money laying tiles in your bathroom, especially if you're paying someone to do it for you. What's more, your bathroom is a humid and damp environment, your tile selection is crucial if you want your bathroom to look great 10 to 15 years from now. If you use the wrong materials or make a poor decision on installation, you could live to regret your decision. So before you make any moves, learn all you can about tile selection. 

Porcelain

Porcelain is a dense tile that's resistant to scratches and stains. It's durable, resistant to wear and tear, and extremely low maintenance. Since it is very dense, porcelain tile is ideal for rooms with high moisture. It doesn't have a glaze, and the color goes through the complete tile, so you won't have to worry about repairs. Porcelain tile costs, on average, $4 to $8. However, some high-end designer tiles can cost much more. Since porcelain tile is difficult to install, you will pay more for installation as well. 

Ceramic

Ceramic tile is less expensive than porcelain tile and not as expensive to install. You can expect to save about $1 to $2 per square foot. However, it is made with a softer material, which makes it vulnerable to damage. Therefore, it is not recommended for high-traffic areas, such as the bathroom floor. You could choose to use it as your wall tile to save money.

Marble

Marble is exquisite and a must-have for high-end, luxurious bathrooms. It's durable but very expensive. What's more, the distinct coloring and patterns of marble make it very taste specific. It may not be an advisable material if you plan on putting your house on the market unless marble is hot in your specific market. Marble also requires regular maintenance. 

Granite

Granite, another natural stone, is slightly less expensive than marble but still more expensive than man-made tiles. Granite is durable. However, it can chip and crack if you're not careful. It does not require as much maintenance as marble. 

The type of tile you select for your bathroom has a huge impact on your overall remodeling budget. The size and cut matters as well. Small, oddly shaped tiles require more labor to install, so you will pay more to have them laid than you would for large, square or rectangle tiles. Talk to a company like Callier Thompson Kitchen & Bath to learn more about your various tile options.