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Ceramic Tile Kitchen Countertops: Versatility At An Affordable Price
Some of the most often used tops are ceramic tile kitchen countertops. They present beauty, practicality, and a wide selection of colors and textures.
Because tile comes in so many shapes and sizes, it opens itself up to a lot of design creativity. You can let your creativity shine with the selection of tiles that you can choose from.
You can choose tiles from one inches square up to over two-foot square based on the look you want to achieve. You are only limited by your imagination and the possibilities are virtually endless!
Some people shy away from ceramic tile kitchen countertops thinking the grout joints will be a problem or general cleaning will be an issue.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Today, grout is much better then it was years ago. Grout is now mixed with a latex additive that makes the finished joint much more durable. Choose an epoxy or acrylic grout for the best results.
Sealers can also be applied that last up to 15 years! Your installer will be able to direct you on the types that are best for your job.
A grout that matches your tile will give you a more uniform look and a grout that is darker in color will be easier to maintain and not show stains as easily.
One of the best things about ceramic tile kitchen countertops is that it can take heat without damage. Ceramic tops can withstand almost any amount of heat from pots and pans.
They can take a lot of use without wearing out or losing their surface properties. The surface is so hard that stains seldom penetrate the tiles themselves. Given just a little bit of care, ceramic tile kitchen countertops will maintain its beauty for a long time.
Tile withstands humidity and is fire, fade and stain resistant.
Damage to the top can be repaired by replacing individual tiles.
Tile offers the ability to use the same materials on the backsplashes as on the countertops, which creates a stylish and well-blended look.
Cons:
Grout joints can stain if not protected with a quality sealant. Newer grout in much more stain resistant.
Tile surfaces can be a little bit more difficult to clean compared to a smooth surface and joint require special attention.
Tile, like other hard surfaces, will dull knives so a cutting board is recommended.
Grout joints can provide a place for bacteria, mold, and mildew growth.
Even though tile is very durable, glossy tiles can show scratches more easily.
Ceramic tiles can easily break if something sharp or heavy is dropped onto the surface.
Ceramic Tile Countertops are Budget Friendly
The cost of kitchen counter tops is always a concern. Ceramic presents a way to have the beauty that you want at a much lower price than many other countertop options.
Tiles can cost as little as a couple of dollars per square foot up to almost any amount you want to invest. Even in a lower price range, there are many choices of attractive tile.
Many homeowners want their kitchen tops to have smooth tile so they can wipe them down with ease, but there is no reason not to use textured surfaces with ceramic. Choices range from super glossy and smooth finishes to dull and textured tile. It's highly unlikely that you'll have a problem finding just the tile that suits you.
The largest sized tiles have the fewest grout joints, which is what some folks prefer. Kitchen countertops are approximately 25 1/2" deep. You can get tiles that are 24" x 24" which will span the distance from the front of the counter to the back, eliminating a joint entirely. This is only possible if you can get a 1 1/2" bullnose tile for the front edge of the countertop. More often than not, most homeowners elect to use smaller tiles because of the freedom of design.
You hope damage never occurs to your ceramic tile kitchen countertops. If it does, it's nice to know that one of the advantages to having individual tiles is that your installer can take one out and replace it, as mentioned. It will be hard to tell that any damage ever occurred.
Ceramic tile is a great choice that you can do a lot with in terms of design. It is also very durable given the new grout that is available. These facts together make it a good choice for today's kitchens. However, you need to weigh the pros and cons as pointed out above.
You can find a large selection of tile online that either you or your tile setter can install to get you the ceramic tile kitchen countertops that you want. If ceramic tile is not your first choice, choose from over 20,000 other products. BuyTile.com has unheard of low prices, no sales tax, direct delivery, and free design service!
See how to install ceramic tile countertops in this video.
