Learn About the Grade and Standards of Marble Tiles

1. Learn About the Grade and Standards of Marble Tiles There is no such thing as a set standard that all dealers and builders adhere to when it comes to marble tiles. The grading system also varies. Most sellers often categorize their marble tiles as commercial grade or premium grade, the latter being more expensive and more durable (though some might argue that this is not always the case). To get the best value, you need to deal with a trusted seller in the first place. When purchasing marble tiles for your home, it is best to ask your supplier if the marble tiles they sell are of premium grade. You might be wondering—what exactly is the difference between the two? More often than not, commercial grade marble tiles are cut thinner and extracted from marble mines in countries around Asia where the labor costs are cheaper. Also, these commercial grade tiles are cut out from widely-available marble, which also explains why they cost less. These tiles are also often mixed with other soft minerals, which is why it is more prone to damage. Meanwhile, premium grade marble tiles are more expensive because they are thicker and tend to be sturdier. They are also mined from quarries located in countries all over Europe, such as Turkey and Italy. Some dealers also sell ‘mid-grade’ tiles, which often come in clear colors and beautiful patterns, but they do not differ much from commercial grade tiles. They are inferior to premium times in terms of quality and value, but they are widely used for economical reasons. Should you get commercial grade or premium? That really depends on your budget and how you want to use the tiles. Even lower-grade marble tiles will still last longer than many other flooring materials. If you will be using the tiles for your countertops, go for tiles thicker than an inch so that it can deal with heavy kitchen appliances. Marble tiles have the potential to increase the value of your home not only because it lends an opulent aura to any room or outdoor area but also because with proper maintenance, they can last for many decades. Premium marble tiles are certainly worth the investment if you love your home.