Key Takeaways
- Tile is best for durability and handling moisture, while hardwood offers warmth and a timeless look.
- Hardwood lasts for decades and can be refinished but is prone to scratches and moisture damage.
- Tile is water-resistant and low-maintenance but can feel cold and hard underfoot.
- Tile is ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, while hardwood works best in living areas and bedrooms.
- Hardwood typically costs more upfront, and replacing tile with wood can be expensive.
- Hardwood is quieter and more comfortable, while tile is more durable but may be noisier.
Tile vs. Hardwood: Main Differences
When deciding between tile and hardwood, consider how each performs in everyday use:
- Best for moisture: Tile
- Best for warmth and comfort: Hardwood
- Best for durability: Tile
- Best for resale value and timeless style: Hardwood
Hardwood Flooring Overview
Hardwood flooring is a classic choice that adds natural beauty and long-term value to your home. It’s available in a wide variety of species, finishes and plank styles.
Hardwood Flooring Considerations
- Timeless appearance that complements most home styles
- Can be sanded and refinished multiple times
- Adds warmth and comfort underfoot
- Susceptible to moisture damage
- Can scratch or dent from heavy use
- Typically higher upfront cost
Types of Hardwood Flooring
- Solid Hardwood: Made from simple planks of wood and can be refinished multiple times
- Engineered Hardwood: Features a real wood top layer with a stable core, making it more resistant to humidity changes
- Bamboo Flooring: A fast-growing, renewable option with durability that varies depending on construction quality
Tile Flooring Overview
Tile flooring is a versatile and durable option that’s available in ceramic, porcelain and natural stone.
Tile Flooring Considerations
- Highly water-resistant
- Durable and scratch-resistant
- Available in a wide range of styles, including wood-look designs
- Can feel cold and hard underfoot
- May be slippery when wet
- May require maintenance and regrouting
Types of Tile Flooring
- Ceramic Tile: Budget-friendly and durable
- Porcelain Tile: Denser and more water-resistant
- Natural Stone Tile: Unique, high-end appearance
- Wood-Look Tile: Mimics hardwood with added durability
Making Your Choice
Here’s a comparison of the major selling points of both types of flooring.
Appearance and Style
- Hardwood flooring delivers a natural, timeless look and can be refinished to update its appearance.
- Tile flooring offers more design flexibility, from modern patterns to natural stone visuals.
Water Resistance
- Tile: Highly water-resistant and ideal for bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms
- Hardwood: Best for dry areas like living rooms and bedrooms
Durability and Lifespan
- Tile flooring is extremely durable and resistant to scratches but may crack under heavy impact.
- Hardwood flooring can last decades with proper care but is more prone to surface damage.
Cost Comparison
The cost of hardwood floor and tile vary depending on material quality and installation.
- Hardwood flooring: Typically higher upfront cost, especially for solid hardwood
- Tile flooring: Wide price range, from budget-friendly ceramic to premium stone
Cost to Replace Tile Floor with Wood
The cost to replace tile floor with wood depends on several factors, including:
- Removal of existing tile
- Subfloor preparation or repair
- Type of hardwood selected
- Labor costs
On average, replacing tile with hardwood can range from moderate to high cost, especially if significant prep work is needed. Getting a professional estimate ensures accurate pricing for your project.
Comfort and Sound
- Hardwood flooring: Softer and quieter underfoot
- Tile flooring: Harder surface that may increase noise, but rugs can help absorb sound
Maintenance
Hardwood Flooring
- Requires regular cleaning and occasional refinishing
- Can be damaged by excess moisture
Tile Flooring
- Cleans easily
- Requires periodic grout maintenance
Best Uses for Tile or Hardwood
Choose hardwood flooring for:
- Living rooms
- Bedrooms
- Hallways
Choose tile flooring for:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry rooms
- Entryways
Looking for New Flooring?
Selecting the perfect flooring for a space is simple when you have help from Lowe’s. Here are some popular product categories Lowe’s customers prefer when shopping for a DIY flooring project.
Tile vs. Hardwood Flooring: FAQ
Here are answers to common questions Lowe’s customers ponder when choosing flooring.
Is Tile or Hardwood Better for Your Home?
The choice between tile or hardwood depends on the room and your lifestyle. Tile is better for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens, while hardwood is ideal for living rooms and bedrooms, where comfort and warmth matter most.
Should You Choose a Hardwood Floor or Tile for a Kitchen?
When deciding on a hardwood floor or tile for a kitchen, tile is usually the better option because it resists water, spills and stains. Hardwood offers a warmer look but requires more maintenance to prevent moisture damage.
What Is the Cost to Replace Tile Floor with Wood?
The cost to replace tile floor with wood varies based on tile removal, subfloor repairs, materials and labor. In most cases, it ranges from moderately costly to very costly, so it’s best to get a professional estimate for accurate pricing.