Is DuraCeramic better than Ceramic Tile
My brother and his wife are remodeling their kitchen. They’ve taken the time to carefully investigate all the different aspects. And I was really curious when they began talking about DuraCeramic for the kitchen floor.
What is DuraCeramic?
DuraCeramic basically falls in between laminate floor and ceramic tile. It is manufactured as 16 inch square tiles that can be scored into 8 inch squares. DuraCeramic is available in many different colors and patterns.
DuraCeramic Benefits
DuraCeramic has several advantages that make it an appealing choice. It’s warmer than ceramic and not nearly as hard (meaning it’s easier to stand on - a common complaint of ceramic tile). DuraCeramic is fast and easy to install. Since the tiles flex, they can accommodate an inconsistent sub-floor. Joints can even be grouted to look just like ceramic tile. And because the floor is composed of individual tiles, it’s easy to replaced any damaged sections.
DuraCeramic Disadvantages
Now here’s the downside. DuraCeramic is obviously not as resilient as ceramic tile. Dropped items can cut and chip tiles especially at the corners. My brother also said the price tag was much higher than ceramic tile. I’ve also heard varying reports about cleaning. Some say it takes brushing on hands and knees. Other say cleaning is a breeze. Tile texture can make cleaning that much tougher.
After doing the research, my brother and his wife decided not to install DuraCeramic. I think the high price tag coupled with poor durability changed their minds.
What do you think? Know anyone with DuraCeramic floors? Will the floor last?
Image courtesy of laRuth
June 26th, 2008 at 7:50 am
We’ve actually installed this product in two houses now and I’ve been very impressed with the results. The first how that we used it in I was extremely skeptical. First off I didn’t think it would look like tile, I just thought it would look like another vinyl floor. Boy was I surprised, not only did it look like tile but it’s much softer to walk on. You grout it in just like normal tile so it ends up looking very similar. The two home owners I know that chose this product say that clean up is easier than tile. I think it would be great for kitchens, easier to clean up and softer to stand on.
June 27th, 2008 at 9:04 am
@Todd, I’ve heard it looks beautiful. I’m just curious how well it holds up. Any ideas there?
September 28th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
We are considering Duraceramic tile for the kitchen and bathroom. Has any one had the Duraceramic tile long enough to tell me their true opinion on installation, product dependability and care?