Get the Look of Natural Stone for Less

November 14, 2023

It’s hard to beat the elegant, classic look of natural stone. But if natural stone tile doesn’t quite fit into your budget, lookalike porcelain tile is an excellent alternative!

In today’s blog post, we’re diving into the pros and cons of choosing marble-look porcelain tile. We’ll also share several of our favorite porcelain tile options that perfectly replicate the classic look of marble and other types of natural stone.

Pro: Porcelain Tile Is More Affordable

Between natural stone and porcelain tile, porcelain tends to be less expensive by far. If you want the look of natural stone for less, porcelain tile is the way to go!

(Be sure to check out our budget-friendly guides to natural stone and porcelain tile if you’re looking to keep costs down.)

This Calacatta Sailo 24x48 Porcelain Tile makes a beautiful fireplace surround.

Con: Porcelain Tile Doesn’t Add as Much Value

If your primary goal is to increase your home’s resale value through renovations, then you’ll likely be better off opting for natural stone tile. In general, you’ll get the best ROI by adding natural stone to your kitchen or bathroom.

We love the seamless, opulent look of this Calacatta Lite 24x48 Porcelain Tile on the bathroom floor and walls.

Pro: Porcelain Tile Doesn’t Have to Be Sealed

Part of the installation process for natural stone tile involves adding a sealant. This usually isn’t necessary for porcelain tile, making installation quicker and easier.

Adding our Bianco Venatino 24x24 Porcelain Tile to the bar as well as the floor ties the look of this room together.

Con: Porcelain Tile Isn’t One-of-a-Kind

One of the advantages of natural stone tile is its unique, natural beauty. Unlike manmade materials like porcelain, each natural stone tile is one-of-a-kind.

This gorgeous Fortaleza Black Marquina 48x48 Porcelain Tile is the perfect alternative to our Nero Marquina 24x24 Marble Tile. And at only $7.95 per square foot, as opposed to $15.72 per square foot for the real marble, it’s a steal!

Pro: Porcelain Tile Requires Less Maintenance

Natural stone tile normally has to be resealed on a regular basis. It also requires more complex upkeep as far as cleaning goes. Porcelain tile doesn’t require the same maintenance and is much easier to clean.

This Macauba Blue 48x48 Porcelain Tile is from our Marmol Grande collection, which was inspired by the finest marbles around the world.

Pro: Porcelain Is More Resistant to Moisture

Since most natural stone is porous, it doesn’t always do well in areas that are prone to moisture, such as showers, bathroom floors, and kitchen backsplashes. Without sufficient maintenance, it can be prone to mold and mildew. On the other hand, porcelain, while not completely waterproof, is highly water-resistant.

This Dolomiti Blanco 12x24 Porcelain Tile makes a stunning shower tile for those seeking a spa-like ambience in their home.

Pro: Porcelain Tile Is Easier to Install Yourself

Natural stone tile typically requires professional installation, adding to its high cost. While not everyone may be cut out to complete DIY installation with porcelain tile, it’s much easier for the average DIYer to do successfully than installing natural stone.

Our Flamen Blanco 12x24 Porcelain Tile adds a touch of sophistication to this minimalistic bedroom.

Pro: Porcelain Tile Is More Accessible

It’s often much easier to find and purchase a wide variety of porcelain tile in comparison to natural stone tile. Plus, porcelain comes in many more shapes, sizes, patterns, and colors than natural stone.

Milano Statuary White 12x24 Porcelain Tile is a contemporary take on natural Italian marble, setting new standards in styles and trends while conserving its prestige and quality.

Pro: Porcelain Tile Is More Durable

Porcelain tile is more durable than natural stone, as well as less prone to cracks and dents.

HD printing brings this Sicilia Venato 12x24 Porcelain Tile to life with realism, elegance, and contemporary character.

Shopping for Tile Online Has Never Been Simpler!

At Tilezz.com, we make it easy to shop for tile online thanks to our fast delivery, insured shipments, and easy returns. We have a huge selection of porcelain, ceramic, glass, and natural stone tiles to choose from–check it out here. You can also visit our blog for design inspiration, informational articles, and DIY installation guides.