Between wood-look tile that closely mimics real wood and the authenticity of hardwood floors, how do you choose? Here are the main arguments to help you decide.
Resistant to heat, UV rays, and frost
Since it is non-combustible, wood-look tile is completely resistant to flames. It also does not blacken when in contact with heat, especially from hot objects such as utensils, dishes, cigarette butts, or embers. Heat does not discolor it, and its color does not fade even after prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Wood-look tile is also resistant to negative temperatures and frost, making it ideal for outdoor terraces, areas with fireplaces or stoves, as well as kitchens.
Does not stain
Tile is a non-porous, glazed, and colored material that resists various products, even chemicals, without staining. Stains remain on the surface, whether wet or solid, and can be easily cleaned with warm water and a soft cloth. For extreme dirt, stronger cleaning agents can be used without damaging the surface—making it a good choice for living rooms and kitchens.
Water, scratch, and wear resistant
Often made from porcelain, a mix of clay, quartz, and feldspar, and fired at high temperatures before being glazed, wood-look tile is highly resistant to scratches and wear. This makes it a great option for high-traffic areas such as hallways, entrances, kitchens, or terraces.
Soft, warm, and comfortable underfoot
Hardwood floors, with their various finishes (varnished, oiled, waxed, etc.), provide a soft and silky feel year-round, making the spaces they cover naturally warm and welcoming. This makes hardwood ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and relaxation spaces.
Aesthetic and elegant, suitable for all decor styles
With a wide variety of wood types (maple, oak, bamboo, cherry, etc.), genuine hardwood flooring adapts to any decorative style (contemporary, traditional, modern, or exotic). Depending on the wood’s color, pattern, and origin, the atmosphere can vary but always remains elegant due to the authentic charm of wood, which makes it a great choice for renovation projects as it complements various interior design styles.
Contributes to thermal and acoustic insulation
When paired with an underlayment and properly installed, hardwood floors contribute significantly to both acoustic and thermal insulation, making them ideal for rooms on upper floors to block noise. They are also excellent thermal insulators, contributing to the overall comfort of the space’s occupants.
Durable material
The thickness of the wear layer on hardwood floors allows for complete renovation through simple sanding followed by re-glazing or oiling. Damaged planks can also be replaced, giving hardwood a lifespan of up to 70 years. Hardwood floors also become more beautiful with time.
In conclusion, both materials offer great advantages, and your decision can be simplified based on the room where you plan to install your new flooring and its intended use. Wood-look tile is better suited for areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or high-traffic areas such as entryways, while hardwood flooring is ideal for living rooms, hallways, or bedrooms, creating a warm, soft, and naturally inviting atmosphere.