Marble as a building material implies a certain kind of luxury that’s impossible to forget. Of course, any savvy designer knows that Marble can be as pricey as it is beautiful. The closer a marble’s source is to Greece or Italy, the higher the price tends to be. No matter your budget, investigating alternatives is always a smart move that might lead to an all-around better fit for your room, as marble-look porcelain has many benefits besides the pretty price.

 

            First, let’s get into what exactly marble-look porcelain is. Porcelain tile is made from natural clay that has been fired in a kiln. Variations on this process allow the natural look of stone to be duplicated for a much lower price, with much more availability than the real thing. Modern technology also lends some other neat factors as well.

 

            Aside from the price, marble-look porcelain is easier to maintain. While the polish of marble fades over time, the polish of marble-look porcelain does not. It’s also more durable, meaning less scratches and chips from children and pets. Marble is more susceptible to stains and harsh chemicals as well, due to how porous it is. Marble-look porcelain is less likely to soak up that red wine and leave a lasting mark.

 

            Marble-look porcelain has a few other differences from marble. First, it does not require the yearly seal that is crucial to maintaining marble. This sealing process, depending on if you do it yourself and what materials you use, can cost you up to several hundred dollars a year. Second, marble-look porcelain is more uniform, which means it’s preferable for larger spaces. The natural variance in marble could leave your room looking lopsided if your tile installer isn’t careful.

 

            Of course, that same natural variance is why we love marble. Perhaps the romance of stone cut from the earth appeals to you. Maybe the streaks of iron, painted by pressure and heat, are exactly what you need across your wall.  While the technology of marble-look porcelain is improving every day, upon close inspection it does not completely capture the same depth and hues as marble.  

 

            However, your budget or space may not be right for marble. If you have dogs running through your kitchen, don’t have the time for that routine seal and re-polish, or need to cover a large area, marble look porcelain might be the right choice for you. Thankfully, UniqueTile.com takes out the guesswork. You can browse both marble and marble-look porcelain samples, and find one that perfectly fits both your budget and needs. Here’s to you creating a space you love!