Tile vs laminate: which is better
The classic kitchen and hallway dilemma: tile shrugs off water, laminate is warmer and cheaper to lay.
Ceramic tile35 $/m²
Laminate25 $/m²
Key differences
- Laminate is roughly 29% cheaper (25 $/m² vs 35 $/m²).
- Laminate is warmer: lower thermal conductivity (0.1 vs 0.9 W/(m·K)).
- Ceramic tile is safer in a fire (lower combustibility class).
Specifications side by side
| Property | Ceramic tile | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Average price (United States) | 35 $/m² | 25 $/m² |
| Thermal conductivity | 0.9 W/(m·K) | 0.1 W/(m·K) |
| Density | 2000 kg/m³ | 850 kg/m³ |
| Water absorption | 10 % | — |
| Compressive strength | 30 MPa | — |
| Combustibility | Non-combustible | Combustible |
Typical reference values (SP 50.13330 / GOST); the actual figures depend on the manufacturer and grade.
Where each one fits
- Ceramic tile
- Bathroom and kitchen walls and floors, splashbacks.
- Laminate
- Living rooms and bedrooms; moisture-resistant grades — kitchens.
App
Garden planner app for phone and computer
- An icon on the home screen — back to your plot in one tap
- Full screen without the address bar — more room for the plan
- The same projects on phone and computer — cloud autosave
gardmi
Garden site planner · free
You are already in the app — gardmi is installed.
