What are the Differences Between Porcelain Tiles Vs Ceramic Tiles
The distinction between porcelain and ceramic tiles is not always obvious at first glance. That is so because the two products are remarkably similar and share a comparable feel. Although they are both made using a similar procedure, there are some very significant variations between these two tile flooring options that you should be aware of. Make sure you comprehend the most recent tile trends and the distinctions between porcelain and ceramic if you want to select the ideal tile flooring selections for your property.
The process of manufacture is the main distinction between ceramic and porcelain tile. In a kiln, a clay mixture is used to make both tiles; however, porcelain tiles are manufactured from more refined clay and are burnt at higher temperatures. Because of this, it is denser and more robust than ceramic tile. Porcelain tile costs more than ceramic tile and is often seen as being of superior quality as a result. Porcelain tiles are probably your best bet if you’re seeking the top selections for tile flooring.
What are Porcelain Tiles?
Clay, sand, and feldspar are used to create porcelain tile. Granite contains the mineral feldspar naturally. Sand fortifies the mixture while feldspar melts, combining all the components to produce a denser tile than a typical ceramic tile that is stronger (30% stronger than granite) and stain-resistant. The firing process for porcelain tiles can reach 2,300 degrees Fahrenheit. The higher firing temperature will force out more water and melt the feldspar to create low-order glass, making the tile much more water-resistant. According to TCNA (Tile Council of North America) requirements, a porcelain product must absorb less than or equivalent to 0.5 per cent of water.
What are Ceramic Tiles?
A clay base, different minerals, and water are commonly combined to create ceramic tile. A stoneware clay body will burn at 1,800–2,000°F and absorb water in the range of 0.5%–3.0%, with certain materials absorbing as much as 20%.
Compared to porcelain tile, ceramic tile has coarser clay and a smaller percentage of fine kaolin clay. It also lacks some of the additives found in porcelain clay.
Although the differences are insignificant if the ceramic tile is glazed, ceramic tile is slightly more permeable than porcelain tile.
Differences between Porcelain Tiles vs Ceramic Tiles
| INTRICACIES | Porcelain Tiles | Ceramic Tiles |
| Appearance | The entire body is covered in the porcelain’s colour or pattern. As a result, it won’t be as obvious if they chip. | Ceramic tiles have their patterns and colours printed on the surface, which is then coated with a glaze. If these tiles are chipped, it will be more obvious because the body of the tile is a different colour from the surface. |
| Process of construction | This kind of tile is manufactured from feldspar, sand, and white clay. It is heated up during the burning process. It is more denser and harder. | This kind of tile was produced using red, brown, or white clay. much softer and less dense. |
| Water repellent | Water cannot penetrate porcelain tiles at all. There is a little than 0.5% water absorption. | Water can be quickly absorbed by ceramic tiles. These tiles absorb more water than 0.5 percent. |
| Price of Tiles | Higher cost | Lower price as compared to Porcelain Tiles. |
| Uses | For usage on exterior walls, countertops, and even floors, porcelain tiles are preferable than ceramic tiles because of their greater durability (both indoors and outdoors). | Since ceramic tiles are more delicate, they are best used in areas with less usage. Because to the numerous colour and design options available, they are also perfect for accent walls and kitchen backsplashes. |
| Abundance and Durability | Due to their higher density, porcelain tiles are less permeable than ceramic tiles. Since they are tougher, they are more resilient and absorb less water. They are therefore more suitable for busy areas that will see a lot of use. | Compared to porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles are less delicate, thick, and easier to handle. |
| Cutting ease | Cutting is difficult. | Cutting and shaping it are simple. |
| Interior/Exterior Usage | Used in both Interior and Exterior | Used in Interior only |
| Resilience to Stains | Due to the solid nature of porcelain tiles and their high level of resistance to most substances, stains cannot penetrate and get set. It resists stains really well. | Stains on ceramic tiles are challenging to remove. |
| Maintenance | Because they are so resilient, porcelain tiles are simple to maintain. | Ceramic tiles are difficult to clean. |
| Longevity | The porcelain tiles last the longest since they are the strongest and most durable. | Ceramic tiles have a lower lifespan in comparison. |
| Weight | Due to their higher density, porcelain tiles are slightly heavier than ceramic tiles and significantly heavier than other flooring materials like wood. | Useful for light-weight floors and lighter than porcelain tiles. |
Which is better Porcelain Tiles or Ceramic Tiles?
The numerous tile variations are suitable for different regions of a building. The two most crucial elements to take into account are often price and water resistance.
Porcelain bathroom tiles are more water-resistant. These will work well in humid environments. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are frequently used in bathrooms and showers. When deciding between ceramic and porcelain tiles for shower installation, some designers advise striking a balance between practicality and price by choosing ceramic shower tiles for the walls and porcelain shower tiles for the flooring. Porcelain tiles are appropriate for an outdoor patio or other exterior applications because of their increased water resistance. This is especially useful in colder regions because porous tile is more likely to gather water and break when subjected to below-freezing conditions.
Porcelain tiles are more rigid and denser than ceramic tiles. Kitchens, mudrooms, hallways, and living rooms are some of the places where it is very helpful. A softer texture can be seen in ceramic floor tiles. Instead of walking on porcelain, these surfaces are more pleasing. The fact that they tend to keep cooler than porcelain makes them attractive in homes in hotter climates.
When choosing between ceramic tile and porcelain tile both are comparable building materials and the bulk of them can be utilised for countertops, floors, or wall coverings.
But you should check to see if the tile is appropriate for the intended application (tiles designated for floors are usually thicker). Whether ceramic or porcelain tile appeals to you more visually will ultimately determine your choice.