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Resin Flooring vs Tiles: Which One Is Better for Your Home?

Updated: Jul 16

Choosing flooring can feel overwhelming fast. Tiles and resin are two of the most talked-about options in Irish homes right now. But which one truly gives you better value, comfort, and performance in real everyday living?

We’ve laid out the side-by-side comparison, so you can make a confident decision that suits your space.


Why Flooring Choices Matter

Flooring sets the tone for your whole home. It affects:

  • Comfort and warmth

  • Cleanliness and ease of upkeep

  • Style and design flow

  • Safety and longevity


This isn’t just about looks—it’s about how you live.


What Are Tiles?

Tiles (ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone) have been a staple in Irish homes for years.You’ll find them in bathrooms, kitchens, and halls across the country.They come in many colours and finishes but always feature one thing: grout lines, which can collect dirt and break up the visual flow.

Spacious modern kitchen with large format grey slate-style resin tiles, white cabinetry, a wooden worktop island, recessed ceiling lights, and open views into a bright living area.

What Is Resin Flooring?

Resin floors are poured systems that create a completely seamless finish.Blended with aggregates like quartz or marble, they offer strength, style, and full customisation.


At Natural Stone Carpets, we’ve been installing resin floors for 30+ years.They’re modern, low-maintenance, and made to last.


Interior view of a bright, modern room featuring newly installed grey resin-bound flooring, crisp white walls, and large windows overlooking a lush green garden.


Resin vs Tiles: Head-to-Head

1. Look & Style

Tiles: Great range of styles, but grout lines can interrupt the design.

Resin: Smooth, seamless, and modern. Customise colours, textures, and finishes.

Winner: Resin

  1. Comfort Underfoot

Tiles: Hard and cold, especially in winter. Slow to warm up with underfloor heating.

Resin: Warmer feel. Heats faster and evenly.

Winner: Resin


  1. Durability

Tiles: Strong but can chip or crack. Replacing one tile can be tricky.

Resin: Extremely tough and flexible. Handles impact and wear with ease.

Winner: Resin


  1. Cleaning & Maintenance

Tiles: Grout attracts dirt and bacteria. Needs deep cleaning and resealing over time.

Resin: Non-porous and hygienic. Just mop and go.

Winner: Resin


  1. Installation Time

Tiles: Multi-step process involving grouting, curing, etc.

Resin: Also needs curing time but can be quicker overall.

Result: Similar installation times


6️⃣ Water Resistance

Tiles: Water-resistant, but grout can absorb moisture.

Resin: Fully waterproof. Ideal for bathrooms, wet rooms, kitchens.

Winner: Resin


7️⃣ Design Flexibility

Tiles: Limited to available sizes and shapes.

Resin: Fully customisable. Endless possibilities in texture and colour.

Winner: Resin


8️⃣ Cost Over Time

Tiles: Often cheaper upfront, but maintenance and repairs can add up.

Resin: Higher initial cost, but pays off long-term in durability and upkeep.

Winner: Resin (long-term value)


Summary Table

Feature

Resin Flooring

Tiles

Seamless Look

Yes

No

Warmth & Comfort

Yes

Often cold

UFH Performance

Excellent

Slower to heat

Durability

High

Can chip

Maintenance

Easy

Grout needs care

Waterproof

Yes

Grout can absorb

Custom Design

Endless

Limited

Installation Time

Moderate

Moderate

Long-Term Value

Strong

Variable


A Note from Chris

"After 30+ years in the flooring business, I've seen styles come and go. Tiles had their day.But now, Irish homeowners are looking for comfort, low maintenance, and modern design.That’s why resin is the way forward."


Come visit our showroom and see the options in person,or book a free consultation to talk through your space.


Let’s Chat

Thinking about upgrading?

🏢 Visit our Dublin showroom

📞 Call the team

🗓️ Book a free consultation

We’re here with honest advice and tailored options—no pressure.



 
 
 

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