Tile countertops determine the style of the kitchen and the choice of material used contribute to the colours and textures that define the deco.  Tiled countertops are often the focal point of the kitchen; the tiles can be made of granite, ceramic, and marble as well as many other stones and synthetic materials.  The installation requires skill and when it is done well, they are a durable and worthwhile addition that gives the room a distinct face lift.

Natural stone looks elegant and unique inside the home, which is why granite tile countertops are so popular.  Granite is capable of matching any set of kitchen cabinets, it is an extremely hard stone which does not easily scratch and can withstand the heat of pots and pans. The only disadvantage of this choice of material is the high price at which it is purchased.  Granite occurs naturally, so it has to be quarried, cut shaped, transported and eventually installed.  The alternative to the solid slab of stone is a granite tile countertop.  Granite tiles are smaller, more affordable segments that can be easily installed.  These ties are made from real granite, their ease and economy in handling and price is as a result of their size.  They come in sections that must be put together and not one slab for the purpose of tiling counter tops.  These tiles are much easier to install and can be used to tile other spaces in the room, this is particularly useful for allowing another part of the kitchen to match the countertop.

A granite tile kitchen countertop provides variety of construction options.  Large slabs are limited to use on large surfaces, but smaller squares can be placed anywhere, they can be used for an attractive back splash and even on the floor.  They can certainly go further than a slab because of their ability to cover different types of surfaces.  They are so versatile and durable that they make a more useful investment than whole granite slabs. The addition of natural stone often increases the home’s market value; however the rest of the house would also have to be at par.  For this reason it would make sense to distribute the value of the home improvement to other areas of the home by reducing huge costs in a limited area such as the kitchen alone. This can be done by using granite tiles instead of granite slabs on the kitchen countertop.

A ceramic tile countertop is resistant to stains, scratches and heat.  The cost of constructing one is reasonable, ceramic tiles produce a countertop that is attractive and easy to clean in a variety of design possibilities.  These tiles can be built onto any type of countertop, however, they require the correct foundation underneath and they work very well with a self rimming sink.  The tiles are cut into sizes suitable for the tile countertop as well as the front edges and backsplashes. Ceramic tile kitchen countertops are not without a downside.  The grout between the tiles can harbour germs; they are prone to breakage and are not easy to repair.
Like granite, marble also has a high price tag and requires careful care and attention to maintain the exquisite beauty that maintains its popularity.  A marble tile countertop is beautiful to look at and attracts attention wherever it is installed.  Marble is a stone that is significantly softer than granite, it is porous, and can easily stain if it is not adequately sealed.  A grout sealer is also required to seal the grout lines.  In order to preserve their attractive appearance. To prevent stains on marble tiles, plastic mats can be used under any wood and metal articles such as vases and food containers with a permanent place on the countertop.  Wood produces tannin and metals produce rust, both of which can stain marble. Any spills on a marble tile surface should be cleaned immediately, the acids in food and drink can leave ugly spots if allowed to sit.  Fruit, coffee, tomato, wine, sauce, sodas and juices are acidic and can leave stain rings and spots on the countertop.

Items on the countertop should always be picked up and not dragged across the marble tile surface because it scratches easily.  A soft cloth and a mild detergent should be used for cleaning the surface; anything abrasive will leave a mark.  It is important to dry the surface thoroughly after cleaning, in order to prevent water stains and maintain the natural shine of marble.  Marble retailers usually stock specially formulated cleaners which are diluted in water to make a solution that cleans without causing any damage to the surface.  Hot items should not be placed directly onto the marble countertop as this causes irreversible discolouration.  Marble is a little less durable than granite and requires more maintenance than other stone counter top options, but when the adequate care can be provided it is an option to consider, particularly for the attractive look it can contribute to the kitchen deco.