Granite has long captured the eye of professional and non-professional remodelers for its range of colors, textures and patterns. Just take a look at many of the home remodeling blogs and you’ll quickly see the enthusiasm for the natural stone material used in bathrooms, kitchens, patios and gardens. Beautiful yes, but unfortunately granite slab does not fit into everyone’s remodeling budget, especially at a price range of $80-$150 per square foot.
For those who love the look of granite slab but not the price, there is the alternative of using granite tiles instead. At a price range of $10-$30 per square foot, tiles are a significant cost savings over granite slab. The savings of the tiles is largely because they are less thick than the granite slab. When it comes to color though, tiles have a narrower color range because the granite tiles are mined from smaller deposits of granite than the slabs are.
Obviously, the choice of slab or tile is up to the individual and is largely determined by the remodeling budget, but both are beautiful ways to include granite in the home. In order to help make the decision between the installations of granite slab versus granite tile a bit easier, we’ve combined a number of the pros and cons of using tiles vs slab below.
Argument for using granite tile versus granite slab
- Tiles can be slightly less or similar in terms of the cost of installation
- Tiles can be a more cost-effective solution because of less-thick material
- Grout can be sealed along with the tile to resist stains
- Can be a good DIY project for someone with tiling experience
Argument for using granite slab versus granite tile
- Granite slab eliminates the need for grout
- Easier cleaning and less maintenance without the grout
- Tiling requires certain level of DIY expertise
- Using slab could improve resale value of home
If granite is on your wish list but it’s not in your budget, the installation of granite tiles might provide an optimal remodeling solution, but always consider having the work performed by a trusted professional or a DIY individual with a high degree of tiling experience.
No matter which granite size you choose (tile or slab); it’s always important to regularly seal the granite. Rock Doctor recommends resealing granite surfaces every 12 to 18 months. Despite its moisture-resistant make-up, granite is still porous, therefore it’s important to create a barrier so spilled liquids bead up instead of soaking into the stone.
The sealer can also be applied on the grout used in between granite tiles and in between granite slabs and the backsplash. Each application of Rock Doctor Granite & Stone Sealer provides a long-lasting barrier against moisture and other miscellaneous drips and spills. After the surface is dry (test after 30 minutes) apply a water droplet to the granite to test the surface. If the water does not bead up, apply another coat of Rock Doctor Granite & Stone Sealer and allow it to dry before retesting. One can of Rock Doctor Granite & Stone Sealer covers approximately 100 square feet of stone. Rock Doctor Granite & Stone Sealer is recommended for use on granite, marble and other natural stone surfaces.
This article was brought to you by Rock Doctor, which offers a line of specially-formulated stone cleaner, stone polish, and stone sealer products. Rock Doctor stone care products can be purchased through a number of fine retail stores, including Wal-Mart, Lowe’s Home Improvement, Bed Bath & Beyond, Ace Hardware, Do it Best Hardware, Hy-Vee, and Wegmans.
