We wanted granite slabs for the countertip. But we are going to "DIY", and my husband is fearful of us having to cut/trim slabs we buy. Plus, I think one section of our counter is deeper than the 'standard'.

Moving on, granite tiles are our second choice and I have a local supplier that seems like a good deal ($5/SF). We think these will look nice and that we can install these (after ripping out the existing ceramic tile countertop).

Yesterday, while visiting the supplier showroom to see what type of granite tiles were available, we saw their porcelain tiles. They are also attractive and even less expensive.

The guy at the showroom wasn't very helpful, so I hoped someone here could give us some info.

How do porcelain tiles compare to granite tiles?

I tried reviewing six months of threads and don't see this previously discussed. If it has been, please give me the links

 

Some of the polished porcelains do a good job of imitating granite. Porcelain is durable and less maintenance than granite but it will never have the exact look of a natural stone, close but not exact. What kind of edging are you planning on?

 

Um....dunno That is another problem to be resolved. Edging/bullnose/etc.

 

Porcelain is very hard and durable with color that goes all the way through. It will be less maintenance than granite tiles. Some tile selections will offer the bullnose edging for countertops. Granite tiles offer a more affordable option for those who want granite, but the tiles must be kept sealed the same as a slab. Whether porcelain or granite tiles, you will have to keep grout sealed to preventing staining. A wood edge is an option for either tile.

 

A wood edge? Really? Is that very common? Thanks for the suggestion and information.

 

i'm thinking about tiling a kitchen counter with granite tiles, but i'm hung up over the edging and backsplash. i can install wood edging. however, the cabinets are laminate and all the wood molding in the house is pine and is painted white. i would like to use oak and stain it, but am not sure how it would look with the laminate and the whire trim elsewhere.

also, i've been told i could install a wood backsplash with a 1x4 bullnosed with a router. that would be easy enough, but again i'm questioning the "look".

any suggestions or ideas would be greatly appreciated.

albacore

 

You could paint the wood backsplash and counter edging. Using natural oak would add visual interest and introduce some natural wood into your scheme. If bullnose pieces are not available for granite tile, edging pieces can be cut from tiles. Edges of pieces can be honed.

 

We just used Schluter Rondec Step metal edging on our granite tile countertops. It comes in a number of different finishes, we used the stainless steel finish. It is wonderful. Very clean looking. We used wood trim in a previous house and liked that too. Depends on the look you want. I love the stainless edge!!!