Should I upgrade to ceramic tile?

[countryproperty]

I have a ground level (cement floor) apartment that was recently flooded. The insurance is replacing everything from 3ft down including kitchen cabinets (yessss). It was vinyl in kithen, ceramic in bathroom and carpet in living room and 3 bedrooms. I have only owned it a year but know that it flooded in 2005 and maybe once before that so I was thinking of upgrading to ceramic everywhere but worried that it would be too cold and although more expensive than vinyl and carpet may make my apartment less appealing to renters. Any thoughts?



Mark

 

[lbazzani]

personally, I'd leave the bedrooms as carpet. Tile is quite cold on the feet and this is the one room people will be barefoot. That said, I'd tile the rest. I do use tile a lot in my rentals and havn't had any problems yet.



Tile, if laid properly, can be nearly bullet proof but make sure to take proper precautions with the grout. This is tile's weak spot as it can stain. Make sure to use a neutral color and a darker grout. Don't forget to seal it too.



If you do end up with dirty or stained grout replacing it can be difficult as new grout will stand out against the old. Also, make sure you keep three or 4 tile aside just incase one does break. This way you have spares from the same die lot and the color you have may be discontinued.

 

[Karma]

I'm partial to tile- I do tiling on the side. However, I'm really impressed with the new vinyl groutable tile products out there. I've installed them in our most recent reno./apt.. They install easily, look great but are softer and warmer on the feet. Why is your above ground apt. flooding every few years- that has to be addressed and put some flood sensor alarms in.



S.G.

 

[countryproperty]

Thanks for the tips very good.

 

[countryproperty]

As far as the flooding the city storm drain plugged during a huge rain storm so hopefully it won't happen again. I do have a call into the city and will meet with them because this should not be happening.

 

[housingrental]

What is your tenant profile like?

Go with ceramic if it'll be well received. If not, do not. You might also consider ceramic with rugs and runner you provide that can be removed and cleaned if needed.

Number 1 issue should be to ensure you do not flood again.