Also, formica or tile for a countertop???
Porcelain is much better quality. The design goes through and though, not just a glaze on top like ceramic. I love tile, but granite is beautiful. I have formica and I like it but don't love it.
I would suggest a porcelain tile for the floor. Porcelain has the color in the body of the clay so if it is chipped it is still the same color, it is also much harder than glazed tile. If I had to choose between tile or Formica, Tile every time much better durability. If you can afford it look at solid surface for your counters. Corian, Stilestone, Granite. Try and get the best material you can afford, you are going to have it a long time.
We have Italian tile in our kitchen (20X20 inch squares) and its great! I wouldn't recommend porcelein because its more likely to crack if you drop a dish. I have heavy earthenware dishes and while the dish is toast if I drop it on the tile, the tile does not crack. I would not recommend tile on a countertop because the grout tends to stain and retain germs that countertops are typically exposed to (e.g. raw meat). Formica is durable but not friendly on the eyes. Why not considering something like corian? It is pretty and resists stains. I have granite in my house that I LOVE but its high maintenance.
countertops are going more tile or granite anymore. depends on your taste and style your looking to achieve. if you are wanting a more expensive look, go for porcelein. very nice tile. if you have animals, dogs, i would not go with a white grout or a white floor. tile is less expensive in price but porcelein in rich looking.
either is fine, unless you bowl in your kitchen ceramic will hold up fine for normal wear and tear, the counter top is your choice, wich look do you like, im personally a tile person.
