Expert: Jan Hayner - 9/10/2010

Question
I am considering a porcelain tile 12 x 24 -- the texture of slate in a solid BLACK.  Absolutely love the look but am afraid of an all black floor.  Should I be talked out of it?  

Answer
Hi Leana;
I don't blame you for being a little worried. Advertising is just that---advertising, it is there to get you to purchase a product.

I have tile in areas of my home, even my kitchen counters tops have a forest green tile and it is great! WOuld I want a black tile on my floor YES! would I do it--unfortunattely, no. Here is why.
Walking on a floor will leave residue no matter what type of climate that you live in. I live in the north (wisconsin) so I would have a mess with snow and salt, I also live in a wooded sandy area--anothe problem during the summer. Remember that tile also needs to be resealed every so many years, so there is a certain amount of unspoken upkeep on it besides just washing it.

I would love to have something like that, it is gorgeous and looks so rich in a room. However, I am the type of person that likes to live as maintenance free as possible....so, no black tile floor.

However, it is up to the individual person and where you live. I would go to several flooring stores and have a handy list of questions to use. Then, take all of the information that you get and weigh the pros and cons.

A lot depends on how much you like to clean in order to get and keep it looking gorgeous.

Good luck with your decision making!
Jan Hayner