Do you respond to fire and storm emergencies 24/7?

Yes. When disaster strikes we respond 24/7 for emergency board-up, tarping, and water removal, then handle the full cleanup and reconstruction with the same team. Call (863) 647-1800 any time.

What happens when I call?

A real Central Florida team member takes your call, gathers the details, and gets an estimator or emergency crew moving. For remodels we schedule a consultation and walk-through; for damage we dispatch mitigation first and plan the rebuild with you from there.

How does pricing work?

You get an up-front quote before work starts, and you approve it first. No surprise line items: changes are priced and approved before we proceed.

What areas do you serve?

We serve Lakeland, Plant City, Tampa, Brandon, Valrico, Winter Haven, Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, Davenport, and the surrounding communities across Polk, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties in Central Florida.

Do you work with insurance on fire and storm claims?

Yes. We document the damage thoroughly, provide the estimates and reports your adjuster needs, and coordinate with your insurance company throughout the repair and rebuild.

Can I finance my remodel or repairs?

Yes. You can apply for project financing through our third-party lending partner, subject to credit approval. Terms vary by lender, by the amount requested, and by your creditworthiness. We walk you through the process before anything is submitted, and for smaller jobs we also accept all major credit cards.

Does True Builders handle both remodeling and repairs?

Yes. True Builders is a full-service general contractor that handles remodeling (kitchens, bathrooms, additions) and reconstruction after fire, smoke, and storm damage, all with one accountable team.

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. True Builders is a licensed Florida general contractor (#CBC1258346) and fully insured, serving Central Florida since 2009.

Ceramic Tile vs. Stone Tile

Name: True Builders
Address: 2829 Badger Rd #19, Lakeland, FL, 33811, US
Telephone: (863) 647-1800
Rating: 4.8

Many homeowners shopping for tile tend to look for the “prettiest” or “trendiest” tile on the market to change the appearance of their home.

However, going by looks alone shouldn’t be the only criteria that you use to guide your selection process. It is important to understand the inherent qualities behind both ceramic tile and stone tile, and which would be the best suited for your home. For example, the durability and functionality of both tiles are characteristics that should be considered, when making the final decision between ceramic tile and stone tile.

Ceramic Tile

All ceramic tiles are synthetic. They are produced by using a kiln to fire them. Ceramic tile comes in glazed, unglazed, and terracotta, which is a red clay material. Ceramic tile is rated on a class scale by the Porcelain Enamel Institute and given a PEI class.

This PEI class rating determines the amount of foot traffic the specific tile can handle. For example, ceramic tiles that are a class 1 should not handle foot traffic and should not be used for flooring. A class 3 rating can handle heavy foot traffic and would be a smart choice for your flooring material.

In Central Florida, ceramic tile is the most popular selection for flooring and is more cost effective.

Pros and Cons of Ceramic

As mentioned earlier, homeowners looking for uniformity and an identifiable color, or pattern, are going to want ceramic tile. The smooth, even finish allows both cleaners and sealants to do their job more easily. In the end, ceramic tile is also more affordable than ones made from natural stone.

On the other hand, ceramic tile is less weather resistant than natural stone. Ceramic tile should not be exposed to harsh weather or extremely cold temperatures, due to the properties of its synthetic nature. In Florida, ceramic tile would be a choice option for homeowners.

Stone Tile

Natural stone makes for a beautiful finish on countertops, backsplashes, and flooring. Some of the most popular types of stone tile include

Limestone
Slate
Marble
Travertine
Granite

Of these materials, Granite wins first prize for durability and crack resistance. This is one of the hardest materials in the world and is a favorite among homeowners. When it comes to choosing a natural stone material for flooring, the variety of aesthetics that are available ultimately leaves it up to the homeowner. All natural stone is unique and has variations in the grain and veining within it.

Stone tile creates a high-end look and is more commonly used for backsplashes.

Pros and Cons of Stone

As the name suggests, natural stone is of course found in nature. As such, it is extremely durable and weather resistant. This attribute makes them an excellent choice for heavy foot traffic areas and a great option for outdoor flooring on an exterior patio, or in a kitchen.

Other positive qualities of stone tile include an improved market value for your home and a unique pattern that cannot be duplicated.

On the downside, stone tile is much more expensive than ceramic tile. The inconsistency in texture and colors can possibly make a room appear too busy. Natural stone is also harder to seal and maintain. This is because the sealants and cleaners are unable to cover the surface evenly.

Making the Decision

If you live within the Plant City, Lakeland, Winter Haven, or surrounding areas in Central Florida, talk to the professionals at True Builders about both ceramic and natural stone tile, by calling (863) 647-1800. Either one can be a beautiful option, that can add value and a pleasing aesthetic to your home. Knowing the benefits and drawbacks to both, before making your final decision, is essential towards making a good choice.