Are Subway Tiles Durable?

Luxurious bathroom featuring glossy green subway tiles, elegant mirrors, wooden cabinetry, and a vase with fresh flowers on a white countertop

Subway tiles, captivating riders on New York City's subways since the early 1900s, have become a design darling. Their enduring charm lies in their perfect blend of style and functionality. Their clean lines and timeless look effortlessly complement various design aesthetics, from classic to contemporary. But are they truly built to last? This article explores the factors influencing subway tile durability, empowering you to decide if they're the ideal choice for your home.

 

Modern kitchen with beige subway tiles, a large rustic vase filled with dried pampas grass, and a concrete countertop adorned with a bowl of fresh fruits

 

Exploring the Durability of Different Subway Tile Types

Subway tiles have become a staple in kitchens and bathrooms. But beneath their timeless design lies a variety of materials, each offering distinct advantages in terms of durability. Let’s discover how ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone subway tiles fare when it comes to resisting scratches, chips, and the wear and tear of daily life.


Ceramic Subway Tiles

Ceramic reigns supreme as the classic and most affordable subway tile option. They are crafted from fired clay, offering a vast array of colors, finishes, and even patterned designs. This versatility allows for creative expression in your home.

Subway tiles crafted from ceramic also boast several advantages in terms of durability. Their glazed surface is scratch-resistant to a moderate degree, making them suitable for areas with regular cleaning like backsplashes. They are also relatively easy to maintain with regular wiping and non-abrasive cleaners. However, the trade-off for affordability comes in the form of potential chipping or cracking. Ceramic tiles are more susceptible to damage from impact compared to denser materials like porcelain. This makes them less ideal for busy areas or those prone to accidental bumps, like behind the kitchen sink.


Porcelain Subway Tiles

Step up to porcelain for a denser and more water-resistant subway tile option. Porcelain is also fired clay, but at much higher temperatures than ceramic. This results in a harder, less porous material with a superior level of durability. Porcelain boasts a wider variety of colors and finishes than natural stone subway tiles, making it a versatile choice that can mimic the look of stone while offering greater resilience.

In terms of durability, porcelain subway tiles shine the most. Their superior scratch resistance makes them ideal for busy areas and even light commercial applications. The denser composition also translates to better resistance to chipping and cracking compared to ceramic. This makes porcelain subway tiles a great choice for busy kitchens, shower walls, and high-use bathroom floors. The water-resistant nature of porcelain also makes it perfect for steamy environments like bathrooms and laundry rooms, where moisture resistance is crucial to prevent mold and mildew growth.


Glass Subway Tiles

For a touch of modern sophistication, glass subway tiles offer a unique aesthetic. They come in a wide range of colors, including transparent and iridescent options, which can add a touch of glamour and create a sense of spaciousness by reflecting light. Glass tiles are perfect for creating a backsplash with a wow factor.

While undeniably beautiful, glass subway tiles have their limitations when it comes to durability. Their smooth surface, while aesthetically pleasing, is prone to scratches from sharp objects and can show water spots more readily compared to other materials. The biggest concern with glass subway tiles is their susceptibility to chipping and cracking if impacted by a hard object. This makes them a less suitable choice for areas that are frequently used or prone to accidental bumps and knocks.


Natural Stone Subway Tiles

Materials like marble, slate, or granite offer a luxurious and unique aesthetic that can add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen or bathroom. Natural stone comes in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to create a truly bespoke look.

Natural stone subway tiles also offer a high level of durability in terms of resisting scratches and chips. However, it's important to note that different stones have varying degrees of hardness. Marble, for instance, is a softer stone and more susceptible to etching from acidic substances like vinegar or citrus juices. Slate, on the other hand, is a denser and harder stone with a higher resistance to etching. Most importantly, natural stone tiles generally require special sealants to protect them from stains and etching, especially in areas with high moisture exposure like showers. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity of natural stone subway tiles.

 

Marble countertop with stylish green subway tile backsplash, featuring a potted plant, wooden tray, and chic bottles for a modern kitchen touch

 

Factors Affecting Subway Tile Durability

While the material itself plays a significant role in subway tile durability, several other factors come into play. Here, we explore how these additional elements can influence the longevity and overall performance of your subway tile installation.


Tile Thickness

The thickness of your subway tiles directly impacts their resistance to breakage and warping. Thicker subway tiles, typically ranging from 3/8" to 1/2" or more, offer greater structural integrity. They can better withstand stress from impacts, weight, and even minor settling of the subfloor. Thicker subway tiles are also less prone to warping, which can occur with thinner tiles over time, especially in areas with fluctuating temperatures or moisture exposure. While thicker subway tiles offer a benefit in durability, they also come at a slightly higher cost and may require a more skilled installer due to their increased weight.


Grout Selection

The grout, the material filling the spaces between your subway tiles, plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and durability. There are two main types of grout to consider: sanded and unsanded.


Sanded Grout

Sanded grout is the most common type of grout used with subway tiles. It contains fine particles of sand, which helps create a textured finish and allows for slight variations in tile size. Sanded grout is a good choice for larger subway tiles (typically 3"x6" or bigger) as it helps conceal minor imperfections in the tile edges. However, the textured surface of sanded grout can be more prone to staining and harboring dirt and grime. Regular cleaning and sealing are essential with sanded grout.


Unsanded Grout

Unsanded grout offers a smooth and seamless finish, ideal for smaller subway tiles or for creating a more modern look. It is denser and less porous than sanded grout, making it more resistant to stains and easier to clean. However, due to its lack of texture, it requires a more precise tile installation to ensure minimal gaps and a uniform appearance.


Proper grout sealing is highly recommended for both sanded and unsanded grout to enhance its durability and stain resistance. A penetrating sealer applied after the grout has cured creates a barrier that helps repel moisture, dirt, and grime, making cleaning easier and preventing the grout from deteriorating over time.


Installation Techniques

Professional installation is paramount for ensuring the long-term durability of your subway tile project. A skilled tile installer will possess the expertise and experience necessary to achieve a proper and secure installation that minimizes the risk of future problems.


Here's how proper installation techniques contribute to subway tile durability:


Substrate Preparation

The installer will ensure the underlying surface is properly prepared, level, and free of any defects. An uneven subfloor can lead to uneven subway tile placement, creating stress points that can cause cracking or chipping over time.


Proper Thinset Application

Thinset is the adhesive mortar used to bond the tiles to the substrate. A skilled installer will ensure the thinset is evenly applied, creating a strong and secure bond that prevents subway tiles from becoming loose or detaching.


Tile Alignment and Spacing

Maintaining consistent spacing between subway tiles with proper grout lines is crucial. Uneven spacing can cause subway tiles to bear uneven weight, leading to potential cracking or chipping. Professional installers use spacers and leveling techniques to ensure a uniform and aesthetically pleasing installation.


Expansion Joints

In areas prone to temperature or moisture fluctuations, expansion joints are necessary to allow for slight movement. Neglecting expansion joints can cause subway tiles to crack or buckle as they expand and contract.


Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning with proper techniques is essential for maintaining the beauty and durability of your subway tiles, particularly those crafted from ceramic or porcelain. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the tile surface or erode the grout. Use mild, pH-balanced cleaners specifically formulated for tile and grout. Wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining, especially important for porous materials like natural stone. Regular cleaning will not only maintain the aesthetic appeal of your subway tiles but also prevent dirt and grime buildup, which can contribute to grout deterioration and potential moisture issues.

 

Luxurious bathroom featuring a freestanding white tub, elegant green subway tiles, and a wooden side table with a vase of greenery

 

Practical Uses for Subway Tiles

Subway tiles, with their versatility and resilience, can thrive in various applications throughout your home. Let's explore some of the areas where subway tiles truly shine:


Kitchen Backsplashes

The kitchen backsplash is a prime location to showcase the beauty and functionality of subway tiles. These hardworking tiles are perfectly suited for this busy zone due to their exceptional resistance to several key elements:


Heat Resistance

Subway tiles, particularly ceramic and porcelain varieties, boast excellent heat resistance. They can withstand the occasional splatter from a hot pan without cracking or warping.


Moisture Resistance

The non-porous nature of most subway tile materials makes them impervious to moisture damage. This is crucial in a splash-prone area like the backsplash, where water can easily come into contact with the wall surface.


Stain Resistance

Cooking splatters are inevitable, and ceramic or porcelain subway tiles excel at resisting stains. Their smooth, easy-to-clean surface allows for quick cleanup of spills and messes, preventing them from setting in and becoming permanent eyesores.


With their durability and ease of maintenance, these subway tiles allow you to create a stylish and functional backsplash that can withstand the daily wear and tear of a busy kitchen.


Bathroom Walls

Ceramic or porcelain subway tiles are a natural choice for bathroom walls, particularly in shower enclosures. Their water-resistant properties and smooth, non-porous surface make them ideal for withstanding the constant moisture exposure in bathrooms. Mold and mildew growth becomes less of a concern with subway tiles, as they don't provide a breeding ground for these unwanted guests. The ease of cleaning allows for quick maintenance and a fresh, hygienic bathroom environment. Subway tiles come in a vast array of colors and finishes, allowing you to create a spa-like atmosphere or a classic and timeless look in your bathroom.


Flooring

While less common, subway tiles can also be used for flooring applications. However, careful consideration is necessary due to some potential drawbacks. Subway tiles, particularly ceramic and porcelain varieties, can be quite slippery when wet. This can be a safety hazard in areas like bathrooms or laundry rooms. Additionally, the smooth surface can be prone to scratches, especially in busy areas. If considering subway tiles for flooring, opt for a textured or matte finish to improve slip resistance and choose a more scratch-resistant material like porcelain. Regular maintenance and cleaning are crucial to prevent dirt and grime buildup, which can further contribute to a slippery surface.

 

Elegant kitchen with brown herringbone subway tile backsplash, marble countertops, brass fixtures, and open shelving decorated with plants

 

Exploring Design Considerations for Durability

While material selection and proper installation are crucial for subway tile durability, some design choices can also play a role. Let's delve into how specific design elements can influence the long-term performance of your subway tile installation.


Tile Size and Pattern

The size and pattern of your subway tiles can have a subtle yet significant impact on the perceived durability of your finished project.


Tile Size

Smaller subway tiles, typically those measuring 3"x6" or less, can offer some advantages in terms of hiding minor imperfections. Slight variations in tile size or minor grout inconsistencies are less noticeable with smaller formats. This can be especially beneficial if you're working with a less-than-perfectly level subfloor or if achieving absolute tile alignment proves challenging. On the other hand, larger subway tiles (e.g. 4"x12" or bigger) can create a more modern and expansive feel but may be more unforgiving of any irregularities. To truly appreciate how different sizes influence the aesthetics of your space, try our cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) tool that allows you to visualize these options in your own room.


Tile Pattern

The chosen pattern for your subway tiles can also influence how imperfections are perceived. The classic stacked pattern, where subway tiles are laid horizontally one on top of the other, can highlight any unevenness in grout lines or minor chips on tile edges. A staggered brick pattern, where subway tiles are offset in a running bond formation, can offer a more dynamic look and potentially mask slight variations in tile size or grout lines. This can be a good strategy if achieving absolute perfection in tile alignment is a concern.


Ultimately, the choice of tile size and pattern depends on your desired aesthetic and the level of perceived imperfection you're comfortable with.


Grout Color

The color of your grout can play a surprising role in the perceived durability of your subway tile installation. Here's how grout color selection can impact the overall look:


Contrasting Grout

While bold and visually striking, grout colors that dramatically contrast with your subway tiles can highlight any chipping or cracking that may occur over time. This is because the contrasting color draws the eye to any imperfections in the tile surface or grout lines.


Similar Grout Tones

Opting for grout tones that closely match your subway tile color creates a more seamless and unified look. This approach helps minimize the appearance of minor imperfections, making the overall installation appear more durable and polished.


While there are no hard and fast rules regarding grout color, considering how it interacts with your chosen tile color and how it might impact the visibility of potential flaws can be a valuable design consideration.


Sealing Considerations

For certain subway tile materials, particularly natural stone like marble or slate, sealing the tiles after installation provides an extra layer of protection and enhances their long-term durability. A penetrating sealer creates an invisible barrier that helps repel stains, etching from acidic substances, and moisture penetration. Sealing is especially crucial for natural stone subway tiles used in areas with high moisture exposure, like shower walls or bathroom floors. Regular resealing may be necessary depending on the type of sealer used and the level of wear and tear the tiles experience.

 

Close-up of green textured subway tiles with wooden body brush, leafy branch, and Meraki hand cream tubes

 

Budgeting for Durability

Striking a balance between aesthetics and durability often involves budgetary considerations. Subway tiles offer a range of price points depending on several factors that directly influence their longevity.


Material

As explored earlier, ceramic subway tiles are the most affordable option. Porcelain subway tiles come in at a slightly higher price point but offer superior durability. Glass subway tiles can be similar in cost to porcelain but require more care due to their susceptibility to scratches. Natural stone subway tiles are the most expensive but add a touch of luxury and require special sealants for optimal performance.


Thickness

Thicker subway tiles generally cost more than their thinner counterparts. The increased material and weight translate to a higher price tag. However, the benefit lies in enhanced durability as thicker subway tiles are better equipped to resist breakage, warping, and stress from weight or movement.


Brand

While well-established brands may charge a premium for their subway tiles, they often come with a reputation for quality materials, consistent sizing, and better craftsmanship. Less-known brands may offer lower prices but may have slight variations in subway tile size or thickness, which can impact installation ease and potentially affect the finished product's durability.

While opting for less expensive materials or lesser-known brands can offer initial cost savings, it's crucial to factor in the potential for future replacements. Lower-priced materials may be more susceptible to chipping, cracking, or staining, leading to the need for repairs or a complete overhaul down the line. Investing in slightly more expensive, high-quality, and durable subway tiles from the outset can translate to significant cost savings in the long run.


The Timeless Appeal of Subway Tiles

Subway tiles hold a captivating allure that transcends fleeting trends. Their clean lines and simple format create a timeless aesthetic that complements a wide range of design styles, from the warmth of traditional kitchens to the sleek minimalism of modern bathrooms. Versatility is another hallmark of subway tiles. They can be dressed up with patterned finishes or metallic accents, or kept classic with a clean white or neutral tone. This adaptability allows them to seamlessly integrate into your existing décor or become the foundation for a fresh design direction.

However, the allure of ceramic or porcelain subway tiles shouldn't overshadow the importance of considering durability alongside aesthetics. While they are generally easy to maintain and resistant to many common wear-and-tear elements, understanding the factors that influence their longevity is crucial for making an informed decision. By carefully considering material, thickness, installation techniques, and proper maintenance practices, you can ensure your subway tile installation remains not only beautiful but also functionally sound for years to come. Subway tiles, when chosen and cared for thoughtfully, can become a lasting testament to both style and functionality in your home.

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