For a lot of consumers, Porcelain and Ceramic tiles are one and the same and both terms are used interchangeably. But are they really the same? Both come under the umbrella of Ceramic tiles and both types of tiles are primarily clay-based as well as kiln-fired, but porcelain is essentially a special type of ceramic. The clays used in making porcelain tiles have higher density (so less porous) and are fired for longer at higher temperatures compared to ceramic tiles.
The main difference between porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles is the water absorption rate – porcelain tiles absorb less water (about less than 0.5%) while ceramic and non-porcelain tiles absorb more. Although it’s hard to tell the difference by merely looking at them, the packaging will usually indicate the type of tiles it is. One way to tell them apart is through the finish – generally porcelain tiles are smoother than ceramic tiles. When you turn over a piece of loose tile – ceramic tile, the unglazed surface will create a semi-concave texture. In addition, you can try to differentiate them through their weight, as ceramic tiles are slightly lighter and aren’ t as dense.
Porcelain tiles tend to be more durable, due to their higher density and less susceptible to wear and tear, making it ideal for commercial use in areas that have large amounts of traffic. However, porcelain tiles are more expensive to produce, but offer saving over time due to its long-term durability.
On the other hand, ceramic tiles are less expensive and provide greater ease for cutting, making it better for DIY projects. Some find ceramic tiles easier to work with when it comes to intricate designs and they provide greater flexibility in terms of customization. Due to ceramic tiles being more porous in structure, more water is able to seep through making it less durable; thus it should neither be used externally nor outdoors.
So which is better? Two major considerations are usually the cost and water absorption rate when it comes to deciding which type of tile to use. E.g. porcelain tiles work great in the bathroom as they have a good amount of hydrophobic properties and are a popular choice for rooms subject to high levels of moisture. Porcelain is also a great option for outdoor patios, especially in areas with colder weather as it is likely to absorb water rather than crack in cold conditions.
Since ceramic tiles are softer to the touch, they are more comfortable to walk on. In areas with warmer climates, people tend to choose ceramic tiles as they tend to stay cooler. When deciding between the two, keep in mind the kind of décor you are going for and the needs of the room/climate as well as your budget, all while prioritizing the overall durability!
Porcelain vs Ceramic Tiles
For a lot of consumers, Porcelain and Ceramic tiles are one and the same and both terms are used interchangeably. But are they really the same? Both come under the umbrella of Ceramic tiles and both types of tiles are primarily clay-based as well as kiln-fired, but porcelain is essentially a special type of ceramic. The clays used in making porcelain tiles have higher density (so less porous) and are fired for longer at higher temperatures compared to ceramic tiles.
The main difference between porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles is the water absorption rate – porcelain tiles absorb less water (about less than 0.5%) while ceramic and non-porcelain tiles absorb more. Although it’s hard to tell the difference by merely looking at them, the packaging will usually indicate the type of tiles it is. One way to tell them apart is through the finish – generally porcelain tiles are smoother than ceramic tiles. When you turn over a piece of loose tile – ceramic tile, the unglazed surface will create a semi-concave texture. In addition, you can try to differentiate them through their weight, as ceramic tiles are slightly lighter and aren’ t as dense.
Porcelain tiles tend to be more durable, due to their higher density and less susceptible to wear and tear, making it ideal for commercial use in areas that have large amounts of traffic. However, porcelain tiles are more expensive to produce, but offer saving over time due to its long-term durability.
On the other hand, ceramic tiles are less expensive and provide greater ease for cutting, making it better for DIY projects. Some find ceramic tiles easier to work with when it comes to intricate designs and they provide greater flexibility in terms of customization. Due to ceramic tiles being more porous in structure, more water is able to seep through making it less durable; thus it should neither be used externally nor outdoors.
So which is better? Two major considerations are usually the cost and water absorption rate when it comes to deciding which type of tile to use. E.g. porcelain tiles work great in the bathroom as they have a good amount of hydrophobic properties and are a popular choice for rooms subject to high levels of moisture. Porcelain is also a great option for outdoor patios, especially in areas with colder weather as it is likely to absorb water rather than crack in cold conditions.
Since ceramic tiles are softer to the touch, they are more comfortable to walk on. In areas with warmer climates, people tend to choose ceramic tiles as they tend to stay cooler. When deciding between the two, keep in mind the kind of décor you are going for and the needs of the room/climate as well as your budget, all while prioritizing the overall durability!
