My DH and I are in the process of deciding on new flooring for the itchem. Curently there is 12 x12 blue ceramic tile that is just not our taste. We are trying to decide between 2 different products and would like your opinions.
Option 1 18 x18 ceramic tile. The cost is only about $3 a sq ft, but to install it is over $4 a sq ft. we really like the look of this tile. And have lived with ceramic before with no problems
Option 2 This is an 18 x18 laminate floor that is made to look like ceramic tile. It is installed by "click" method, so DH and I can PROBABLY install it ourselves, thus getting rid of the installation charge. However this floor is more expensive at about $4 a sq ft. If you are not familiar with this floor it even feels like natural(non shiny)ceramic under foot minus the cold.
I don't have experience with product number 2. However, I have laid ceramic tile and it's not that hard. Rule 1, take your time do small sections at a time. Rule 2, stay level, use your level often. Rule 3, individually clean each tile after putting in the grout and do it right away.
My parents had those two options when they did their kitchen last fall as well.
They opted for the laminate "locking" pieces. IT IS ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS!!!
They are so happy that they went with that product over ceramic. It is so much more warmer and inviting than cold ceramic tile. Plus as an added bonus, it cleans soooooo nicely!!!
I'm noy sure of the exact name. COmpany's we weere looking at were Armstrong and Mannington. It was in the laminate section and it was 18 x 18 tiles that looked like stone but clicked or locked together,
I researched Option #2 or maybe a version of it a couple of years ago. It was sold at either Lowes or Home Depot. Everything I read on DIY messageboards said to stay away from that because it would crack, especially in areas where a lot of weight (such as a frig) could be a consideration. Don't know if your Option #2 is the same thing or not.
I'd go with the ceramic tile. I'm not a fan of ceramic tile or laminate flooring but if I had to chose between either of them I'd opt for the real tile. I just don't like laminate. I know in the Northeast alot of buyers are turned off when sellers use laminate, a realtor told me it's one step above vinyl. Same situation buyers are turned off when sellers use laminate wood instead of real wood etc. All the high end homes in MA are using hardwood or occasionally stone in the kitchens now (like granite or travertine tiles) for flooring, it was stone for a few years but the last two years it's been solid hardwood.
