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Natural marble has emerged as a popular flooring, wall cladding and countertop material because of its timeless appeal, which never goes out of style. Marble is quarried in the form of large blocks and is then cut into uniform sizes of slabs and tiles, which are extensively used for different applications. We compare the strength, durability, ease of maintenance and other factors regarding the installation of marble slabs and marble tiles, so that you can decide which is the right way to go.

What is the difference between marble slabs and marble tiles?

• Marble slabs are thicker and weigh more than natural marble tiles. Italian marble has a thickness of 18–20 millimetres, while Indian marble can go up to 30 millimetres. Pre-polished ready-to-fix marble tiles have a thickness of 10–12 millimetres.
• Since marble slabs are thicker, they are much stronger and more durable than the thinner marble tiles. Make a note that Indian marble tiles are comparatively stronger than Italian marble tiles.

How do marble slabs and marble tiles differ in their appearance?

• Marble slabs have distinctive bold veins and are available in large sizes, which means there are very few joint lines and the same type of grain covers a large surface area, providing consistency.
• Marble tiles are smaller in size, with no uniformity in the grain patterns. The small size results in extra joint lines, depending on the size of the marble tiles, and a more mixed and varied appearance over an area.

Which are easier to maintain – marble slabs or marble tiles?
Since marble slabs and tiles are both made of the same material, there is little difference in the ease of maintenance.

• Marble is highly porous and susceptible to stains caused by acidic substances such as vinegar, fruit juices, wine and vinegar. Therefore, both marble slabs and marble tiles will require periodic sealing with impregnating sealers that create a protective barrier which prevents staining.
• The routine cleaning of marble slabs and marble tiles involves cleaning with a mild detergent solution or a professional marble-cleaning liquid. To avoid discolouring and corrosion of the smooth marble surface, do not use acidic cleaning agents and harsh scrubbers.
• Marble slabs and marble tiles tend to lose their lustre over a period of time. It is essential to periodically polish the marble after a span of five years so that it can retain its shine.

Which are the best areas of installation for marble slabs and marble tiles?

• Premium marble slabs with inherent grain patterns look beautiful in areas such as the entrance lobby, a spacious living room or as a feature wall that ensures maximum visibility.
• If the building structure is not designed to take the load of marble slabs, especially if it is an old building, then go for marble tiles as they are lighter in weight.

In this example, check out the trending style of book-matching marble where the adjoining surfaces of marble slabs mirror each other and give the impression of an open book.

• Consider marble tiles for creating interesting flooring patterns. In this image, marble tiles have been used to create a herringbone flooring pattern.

Are marble-look tiles better than natural marble tiles?

• You can opt for factory-made marble-look porcelain, vitrified and ceramic tiles which simulate the look of different types of marble. Marble-look tiles are much better than natural marble tiles because they are strong, durable and easy to maintain.
• Unlike natural marble tiles, vitrified and porcelain tiles do not require periodic sealing and polishing.
• Marble-look tiles are also available in both small and large sizes, which result in fewer joint lines and give the space a visually bigger look.
• Another advantage is that marble-look tiles have uniform grain patterns and each tile looks alike, while no two tiles of natural marble look alike.
• Marble-look tiles are comparatively cheaper than natural marble tiles.

What are the costs of marble slabs and marble tiles?

• The starting price for good-quality marble slabs is around ₹120 per square foot. Italian marble is available at prices starting from ₹350 per square foot onwards, as in the year 2021.

• Good-quality marble tiles start at ₹80 per square foot onwards.
• Marble-look porcelain and vitrified tiles start at ₹75 per square foot.