Rating of the best marble effect tiles for 2022

Imitation of tiled marble can easily replace natural products in interior decoration. In appearance, such an imitation almost does not differ from a natural mineral, and its performance is not only not inferior, but sometimes superior to the "progenitor", especially since the price for it will be much cheaper.

General information

Today's technologies allow you to create fairly accurate imitations of marble, like natural stone. In terms of aesthetics, it may even look prettier, because it is very easy for him to set the desired pattern. Innovative digital printing technology will allow you to create such texture and shades that in reality simply never meet.

Imitation marble goes well with any interior decor - from classic styles to modernist design solutions. It is easy to combine with various furniture fittings, decorative finishes, kitchen sanitary ware and household appliances.

This artificial material is very unpretentious in terms of care. For example, if natural stone is not properly cared for, it will quickly lose its presentable appearance. Artificial tile is very easy to clean, and its design is able to keep the pattern in good order for a long time.

Variations of tiled artificial marble

The considered type of finishing material can be made in two forms - on the basis of solid (porcelain stoneware and ceramic tiles) materials or elastic (PVC panels and quartz vinyl tiles).

• Ceramic tiles.

It is particularly versatile and is perfect for flooring, walls, wet / dry areas, as it tolerates both high and low temperatures. Such consumables are produced in modules with different sizes, but in Russia the most popular models are 60 * 60 and 120 * 60 centimeters. The current trends among manufacturers are focused on ensuring that their products repeat the pattern of natural marble as closely as possible, so each module will have an individual pattern. This is how natural marble rocks, such as Carerra, Calacatta, Grigio gray, are successfully imitated.

• Ceramic tile.

Such a sample costs a little less than the above, but it weighs much less, and its standard modules have smaller dimensions. However, the enamel that is applied to such products is very easily abraded by careless handling, scratches and cracks, and also does not tolerate strong mechanical stress. From this it is clear that in order to maintain the durability of the marble pattern, such material is not recommended to be laid on the floor in places with high traffic flow. Ceramics is more suitable for wall cladding, although laying on the floor is also allowed, but this will require protection on its surface. It is worth noting that patterns on ceramics easily fade in direct sunlight.

• Quartz vinyl tiles.

This consumable can be an ideal product for imitating a marble floor. It is extremely moisture resistant, will perfectly withstand the humid conditions of bathrooms and kitchens, they are even allowed to finish the premises in the pool. It is made of PVC, reinforced with fiberglass in order to increase overall strength. The minimum service life is 25 years, while for the same porcelain stoneware this figure is 10 years.The drawing on quartz vinyl is stable, the base of the module itself will not crack easily even with strong impacts, and a weak response to temperature changes can also be noted. It is very pleasant to walk on such material barefoot from the point of view of tactile sensations, because it is able to constantly maintain room temperature.

• PVC panels.

They are more often used to imitate wood, but it is also possible to apply a pattern of marble veins on them. With a similar pattern, these panels can successfully finish kitchen aprons or make an accented lining of a separate wall in a living room, bedroom or fireplace room based on them. Their installation involves the only caveat - installation should take place only last, when the entire main interior of the room has already been completed.

Technical qualities of imitation marble

• Practicality.

Compared to natural marble, artificial marble will always have a lower hygroscopicity index, because the natural mineral has a porous structure. Also, natural tile marble is extremely vulnerable to temperature changes, high humidity, aggressive substances and excessive mechanical pressure. Artificial material, on the other hand, is devoid of these shortcomings, and each of its deteriorated modules is very easy to replace. This type of coating is weakly susceptible to scratches and abrasion, as well as calmly tolerates exposure to elevated / low temperatures.

• Possibility of modeling any natural patterns.

It is very easy to implement any type of pattern on artificial material. The use of digital printing technology for these purposes will also help to create such variations that will never be found in nature.In a similar way, you can change not only the geometry of the picture, but also its texture, shade, add optional decoration to it, etc. Also, artificial marble modules can be very large, which does not affect the quality of the picture. To make a large slab of natural mineral with a high-quality pattern that shows through is very expensive. You will have to very carefully select and center the pattern, despite the fact that when cutting, there will always be a lot of unclaimed remnants. This is due to the fact that natural stone does not always have a perfect pattern. For example, a completely beautiful texture can be spoiled by veins that are absolutely inappropriate in color or foreign inclusions. Digital printing, on the other hand, is able to create an image as close to natural as possible, while not allowing a single repetition.

• Economic slab.

The slab is a large square slab whose height and width are approximately 2.4 to 2.8 meters. To make such a module from natural marble is not an easy task. But it is quite possible to fold a slab of several small modules of artificial tiles, but for this you need to apply seamless masonry technology. The final result will visually look like a monolithic work. However, this type of installation and consumables for it are quite expensive.

• Aesthetics and variety.

To make a panel of natural minerals is quite simple, but expensive. Here again, an alternative way of using imitation consumables arises, for example, from porcelain stoneware. It is easy to reproduce a relief texture on such material, which is not very expensive and is easier to perform. And for a designer, these qualities are important.

• Simplified layout.

Laying marble tiles using the "butterfly" technology (mirror image of adjacent modules) is far from easy. It will take a lot of time to select the individual parts that fit together. But on porcelain stoneware “marble”, this will be much easier to do, since even at the production stage it is possible to provide for the release of individual modules that would be mirrored together. At the same time, not only the strict form of the pattern will be transmitted, but also the shades of individual areas.

• Ease of installation.

Facing a wall with natural stone or laying it on the floor is a rather complicated operation that requires the participation of a professional craftsman. If you choose the wrong glue for a particular type of stone, then it can be easily damaged and the defective module will not be restored. For the same ceramics or quartz vinyl, everything is much simpler - the manufacturer himself will recommend the desired adhesive composition, and it is very difficult to spoil the imitation consumable with it.

• High level of compatibility.

Artificial marble pattern goes well even with natural material, especially with wood. Such a tandem of materials, as an original design solution, is most often used for finishing bathrooms. At the same time, if the tile is an imitation even on the basis of PVC panels, then the tree can also be imitated by them. Although, a protected parquet board is usually used.

Design solutions

About color

For imitation consumables, a decent combination of black / white or dark / light shades has always been and remains a win-win solution in terms of color. So, for finishing the floor, designers prefer to use a checkerboard layout, so most manufacturers have lines with opposite colors in their marbled collections on an ongoing basis.However, you can use a single color, and place accents when laying out due to shades and contrasts with surrounding objects (for example, furniture). Light porcelain stoneware can visually increase the volume of the room, while the future atmosphere will not have the feeling of some coldness characteristic of other white finishing materials. Imitation modules equally well emphasize both dark and light furniture upholstery. As an example of an ideal solution, one can cite the option of placing white furniture, plumbing, and decor elements against the background of dark porcelain stoneware. But with white marble imitation, warm woody colors will be perfectly combined, which will perfectly emphasize the natural orientation of the cladding.

IMPORTANT! To achieve maximum compatibility, each next row laid out should be 33% lighter or darker in shade than the previous one.

Regarding lighting

All modules that imitate marble, in most cases, have a glossy surface and intensely glare in bright light. Thus, the masters do not recommend installing light sources close to them in order to avoid unnecessary glare and shading. For example, it is preferable to illuminate a porcelain stoneware finish with a diffused light source, creating a so-called “floating wall”. If marble is imitated by quartz vinyl or PVC panels, then it is recommended to lay LED wired lighting along their edges. With its help, you can achieve such a visual effect, in which it will seem that the tile does not come into contact with the base itself and, as it were, “distances” from other surfaces. This technique will look great on the kitchen walls or ceiling.

Regarding the invoice

To create exclusive design projects, marbled tiles can have the following type of texture:

1. Gloss - is a classic option in which the surface of the module is glazed. Such samples are the easiest to care for, but gloss brings a feeling of visual cold to the overall interior;
2. A matte finish is one of the modern finishes designed to form the background of a stone with a weak finish, which emphasizes its nature;
3. Embossed (convex) coating - it is designed to very accurately copy natural and untreated stone. Embossed models are better suited for flooring.

IMPORTANT! There are variations that combine several textures at once. For example, a gloss finish on a relief finish will give the finished room some degree of extra dimension.

Mounting Issues

The most popular marbled consumables in Russia are porcelain stoneware and ceramics, but options with quartz vinyl and PVC tiles are not so common. The first ones are characterized by the required level of moisture resistance, they are perfect for both floors and walls.

The choice of adhesive composition

For porcelain stoneware / ceramics, you will need a special glue. The manufacturer may be different, but the labeling for such mixtures is the same:

• C-0 - used for laying small modules;
• C-2 - suitable for medium format modules (up to 60 * 60 centimeters);
• C-3 - intended for large slabs (120 * 60 centimeters) and slab.

This glue differs in setting time, i.e. the smaller the surface to be applied, the faster the mixture cures.

Choice of grout

Sealing seams in marbled tiles is an important task. Grout can be polymer, cement and epoxy.The latter is characterized by rapid hardening, its excess is difficult to wipe off the surface (which can only be done with special tools). If cement-based grout is used, then such seams will have to be impregnated with a water repellent, i.e. a special agent that repels moisture. So the applied seam will not turn yellow and darken, permanently maintaining the original appearance. The water repellent is perfectly absorbed into the grout, and the effect of its use is enough (on average) for 5 years. The color of the grout material itself should be tone-on-tone or slightly darker than the marble surface. Due to the unevenness of the pattern, when determining the color, you need to focus on the darkest section of the tile.

Difficulties of choice

Now there are almost no concepts of “classic” size or “regular” shape for marbled tiles. Thus, the choice according to these parameters remains at the personal discretion of the buyer. But with regard to quality and strength, the same five gradations of grades are used for the type of consumables under consideration as for ordinary tiles. For example, the fifth grade product is the most unprotected variation and its use is expected in the most greenhouse conditions. A first (or premium) grade product can withstand the most aggressive environments and can be used almost anywhere.

If we talk about the thickness, then there are also recommendations. So, for wall decoration, it is preferable to buy models with a thickness of no more than 6 millimeters, and for the floor - from 9 millimeters or more. At the same time, floor modules must have impact resistance qualities, in addition, their surface must be corrugated (for the convenience of human walking).

For wall decoration in the bathroom, it is recommended to buy large modules, because it is easier and better to convey the pattern of natural stone on them. Also, the visual effect of a large tile will not be spoiled by numerous seams. But the bath bowl itself can be lined on the outside with modules of medium and small sizes. Especially this decision will be successful for giving this object the style of Greek marble.

Rating of the best marble effect tiles for 2022

Solid Samples

4th place: "Garda 40×40 cm 1.12 m² color brown"

This ceramic product is designed for indoor installation. The material is designed for normal traffic (PEI standard 3 out of 5). Suitable for bathroom, living room, kitchen. It can be laid not only on the floor, but also on the walls. The model is durable and wear-resistant, made of reliable material. Scratch resistant (7 out of 10 on the Mohs scale). Differs in moisture resistance, hygiene, not combustible, does not contain toxic substances. Country of production - Russia. The recommended cost for retail chains is 790 rubles.

• Not rectified edges;
• Seams of the smallest thickness (2 mm);
• Glossy top coat.

• Not detected.

3rd place: "Culto Asana Marble 20×40 cm 1.2 m² color gray"

This facing material is used for wall decoration in rooms with high humidity (bathrooms, bathrooms, showers). The model is made of ceramic and complemented with a layer of matte decorative coating. The material is resistant to deformations, tears, scratches. It is immune to moisture, steam, household chemicals, tolerates temperature extremes. The recommended cost for retail chains is 810 rubles.

• The thickness of the product is 8 mm, the optimal width of the seam when laying is 3 mm;
• The edges of the material are smooth, uncut;
• Water absorption - only 0.02%.

• Not detected.

2nd place: "Euro-Ceramic Calacatta 3KL 0005 40 cm x 40 cm"

This model successfully imitates the surface of marble, which is synonymous with luxury. Calacatta is a white Italian marble, the most sought after in the world, highly valued by natural stone experts. This is a rare type of rock found on the Italian coast, near Tuscany. Thanks to its appearance, "Calacatta" gives the interior sophistication and sophistication. It brings a sense of luxury and well-being to the space. When choosing porcelain stoneware or ceramic tiles, it is necessary to add 7-10% meters to the actual required footage. The recommended cost for retail chains is 1640 rubles.

• quality foundation;
• Possibility of easy pruning;
• Sufficient thickness.

• Not detected.

1st place: "Statuario 40 cm x 27 cm"

This model is designed for a carriage coupler and it will become a real highlight of any kitchen or bathroom. Light glossy tiles with marble imitation will perfectly fit into any interior and give it a special charm and unique style. The recommended cost for retail chains is 2080 rubles.

• Glossy and glazed surface;
• Victorian style;
• Moisture resistant protection.

• Somewhat overpriced.

Elastic patterns

4th place: "Bazzart self-adhesive "Black Marble" 30x30 cm 10 pcs."

This self-adhesive tile is a one-stop solution for quickly updating walls in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, offices and hallways. Mounted independently, easily and quickly. Does not require the use of construction tools. There is no need to involve repair specialists. The glossy surface of the PVC panel imitates a noble polished stone. Panel size for walls 30 * 30 cm. Thickness - 2 mm. Each module consists of six layers. The recommended cost for retail chains is 1200 rubles.

• UV coating;
• protective layer;
• Decorative layer with a pattern.

• Not suitable for uneven surfaces.

3rd place: "LAKO DECOR light brown marble, 30x30cm, 28 pieces, area 2.51 m2"

This product can be used both as a floor covering and used for wall decoration. For installation, you do not need to have special skills and buy additional equipment: installing the panel takes no more than a couple of minutes. There are no locking joints on the wall and floor panels, which greatly simplifies installation. PVC tiles consist of 6 layers. Production material - polymers that do not have unpleasant odors. Size of 1 tile: 30*30 cm. The number of tiles in a package is 28 pcs. The area of ​​the tiles in the package is 2.51 m2. Tile thickness - 2 mm. Recommended price for retail chains - 2080 rubles

• Wear-resistant polymer layer (0.3 mm), imitating the natural texture;
• Layer with a decorative pattern;
• IXPE material;
• Foil layer for thermal insulation.

• Not detected.

2nd place: "Tarkett Art Vinyl Lounge Digi Edition 43 class, 3mm, Sander"

This product is produced in the form of a square and is very convenient for installing flooring in any areas of the apartment. The resulting coatings are quite warm. The elastic structure allows you to take on even strong mechanical shocks. Thanks to the pattern, the stains on it are less noticeable, it can be placed on an uneven surface, it is easily cut with scissors. The recommended cost for retail chains is 3110 rubles.

• Quick and easy layout;
• Excellent combination of price and quality;
• High service life.

• Not detected.

1st place: "Alta Step Quartz Vinyl SPC with Arriba Integrated Backing 0.5 cm/43 Grade 9906 Sand Marble"

This model is distinguished by elegant glamor and unique classics. Suitable for everyone who appreciates functionality and is not ready for compromises. The base is an advanced 100% waterproof floor covering with increased durability. SPC laminate is the optimal solution for laying in any room: in the living room, in the bedroom, in the kitchen, in hallways, in bathrooms, in bathrooms, in offices, in commercial premises. It is non-slip, easy to clean, scratch-resistant, wear class 43. The recommended cost for retail chains is 6410 rubles.

• Easy installation;
• Tiles with a locking connection system - it can be installed quickly and easily;
• Innovative manufacturing technology.

• Somewhat overpriced.

Conclusion

Today it is not at all necessary to spend money on natural stone and think over additional strengthening of the floors.Manufacturers offer many options for tiles with a decorative marbled pattern. It successfully conveys the beauty of natural stone, but at the same time it is lighter and costs an order of magnitude cheaper.