The Pros and Cons of Engineered Stone Tile

Engineered stone tile is a durable choice for countertops and backsplashes and can be found in a wide range of colors.

By: Karin Beuerlein

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Engineered stone tile (also known as agglomerate tile and aggregate tile) is made from bits of marble and other rock set in a base of epoxy. It comes in a wide variety of colors and designs. Because it's man-made rather than hewn from natural stone, agglomerate tile has very precise, predictable measurements.

Pay attention to installation requirements; if the tile base is epoxy (resin), an epoxy must also be used for the setting material. Ultraviolet light from the sun can take the shine off the sealers used for agglomerate tile, says Daniel Dixon, a California-based tile construction expert. This makes agglomerate a better choice for indoor applications.

Install Yourself? Yes
Best Use: Countertops, backsplashes, walls
Pros: Design variety, hardness
Cons: High maintenance, tendency to chip and dull
Price Range: $7–$12 per square foot

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