There are so many options for sunroom flooring. Depending on your style and how you’re going to use your sunroom, you may want to consider stone tiles. There is a wide range of types, looks, and prices of stone tiles.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are made of brown, white, or red clay fired at high temperatures and glazed. They can be finished with intricate patterns and designs. They are easy to cut and install and create a durable and hard-wearing floor. They are resistant to stains, scratches and scuffs. Glazed ceramic tiles are not waterproof, but they are water resistant. The tiles won’t be damaged by water but may absorb some. Unglazed ceramic tile is very porous and will absorb stains and liquids. If you choose unglazed ceramic tiles, it is strongly recommended to seal them immediately after installation.
Ceramic tiles are easy to clean. Vacuum or sweep the floor a couple of times a week and wash as required. Ceramic tiles do not require harsh chemical cleaners. Most times, plain water or hot water with some white vinegar will clean them. It’s best to use a rag or a chamois mop rather than a sponge mop because a sponge mop will push dirty water into the grout.
The only real downside of ceramic tiles is their tendency to crack in cold weather.
Porcelain Tiles
Although the terms “porcelain tiles” and “ceramic tiles” are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not the same. Porcelain is made of white clay, sand and feldspar. Porcelain tiles are fired at higher temperatures so they are harder and denser than ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles are harder-wearing than ceramic tiles and are suitable for outdoor use; ceramic tiles are not.
Despite all the advantages of porcelain tiles over ceramic tiles, the color and style selections are more limited, they’re generally more expensive than ceramic tiles, and they can be difficult to cut.
Natural Stone Tiles
The most common types of natural stone tiles are marble, granite, limestone, travertine, sandstone, and slate. Generally speaking, natural stone tiles are more durable than ceramic and are used in high foot traffic areas. Natural stone tiles are porous and should be sealed to make them resistant to stains and moisture. The sealant may have to be reapplied periodically. When cleaning natural stone tiles, don’t use an acidic cleaner as it could damage the tiles.
Apart from the beauty of natural stone tiles, another advantage is that they’re not slippery and they offer some insulation to help keep your sunroom warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Installing natural stone tiles can be tricky and may require a stiffer substrate and more mortar coverage than ceramic or porcelain tiles.
Terrazzo
Terrazzo, one of the oldest flooring types, is making a comeback. Terrazzo tiles are made by setting chips of marble, glass, travertine, marble, quartz and other natural and recycled products into cement and polished. The chips can be blended and the cement tinted to create a wide variety of colors and patterns. Terrazzo is a hard, durable, impact-resistant and abrasion resistant surface used in many commercial establishments for its beauty and durability.
For homeowners with a generous budget, terrazzo can be custom blended and poured in place for a floor that will last the lifetime of the building. For those a little more budget-conscious, terrazzo tiles are an option.
Terrazzo is easy maintenance, requiring only vacuuming or sweeping and a very mild cleaner.
Sunshine Sunrooms has been helping homeowners design and build beautiful sunrooms since 1993. We offer individualized services based on each of our client’s specific budgets, vision and needs.
Call us at (972) 243-5390 for all your sunroom design, construction, and repair needs or click here to request a quote.
