Choosing the right flooring is one of the most important decisions in any renovation. In Singapore homes, the two most common types are tiles and vinyl flooring. Both have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your space, budget, and lifestyle needs.
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Types of Tiles Commonly Used in Singapore
There are various types of tiles available, each with its own characteristics, price point, and aesthetic appeal. Here’s a closer look:
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1. Porcelain Tiles
Made from high-density, non-porous ceramic, porcelain tiles are known for their strength and durability.
Pros:
• Extremely resistant to abrasion
• Waterproof and hypoallergenic
• Durable and low maintenance
• Easy to clean
Cons:
• Feels cold underfoot (especially in air-conditioned rooms)
• Difficult to repair, as colour runs through the tile
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2. Ceramic Tiles
Produced from a mix of clay, quartz, sand, and water, ceramic tiles are versatile and commonly used.
Pros:
• Durable and water-resistant
• Low maintenance
• Hypoallergenic
• Available in many styles and colours
Cons:
• Grout lines require regular cleaning
• Slippery when wet (especially polished surfaces)
• Can chip or crack under heavy impact
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3. Marble Tiles
A luxury flooring option, marble tiles are cut from natural marble blocks and polished to a high shine.
Pros:
• Luxurious and elegant look
• Durable and heat-resistant
• Eco-friendly and easy to clean
Cons:
• Expensive
• Porous and prone to staining and etching
• Slippery and requires professional installation
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4. Granite Tiles
Composed of coarse grains of quartz and feldspar, granite tiles are another high-end natural stone option.
Pros:
• Extremely durable
• Naturally beautiful
• Heat and stain-resistant
• Easy to clean
Cons:
• Higher material and installation cost
• Heavy and harder to install
• Requires periodic sealing
• Can be slippery
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Vinyl flooring is made from synthetic materials like PVC, fiberglass, and plasticizers. It’s a cost-effective alternative that’s gaining popularity in Singapore.
Pros:
• Waterproof and anti-slip
• Fire-, stain-, and scratch-resistant
• Comfortable and warm underfoot (great for elderly)
• Budget-friendly and fast to install
Cons:
• Less durable than tiles
• Can fade or discolour if exposed to sunlight
• Susceptible to dents and scratches from heavy objects
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Where Should You Use Tiles or Vinyl?
Wet Areas (e.g. bathroom, kitchen, service yard):
• Go for tiles with an anti-slip rating of R10 or above
• Bathroom: R10
• Outdoor: R11 and above
• Kitchen: R9
Tiles are waterproof and provide better safety in slippery environments.
Dry Areas (e.g. living room, bedroom):
• Vinyl flooring is ideal — warmer underfoot, more comfortable, and cost-effective
• Choose based on design theme and durability needs
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Conclusion: Tiles or Vinyl?
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Need help choosing the right flooring for your home?
At Empire Works, we help you pick the best flooring based on your lifestyle, space, and budget.
Contact us for a free consultation or site assessment today.
