The Difference Between Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
So, you’ve decided on a durable and versatile material like ceramic or porcelain for your new project. However, you can’t choose between the two. Maybe you’re asking yourself - what is the difference? Sure, they might look the same, even feel the same! However, there are some critical differences between the two materials that might make one option much more appealing than the other depending on where you want to install it.
Where the similarities end
Ceramic tiles are made by baking natural red, brown or white, clay at high temperatures, and then typically applying a glaze on top of it. Despite being produced in a similar way, porcelain uses only white clay and has some different materials, such as sand and feldspar stone, added into the mix. Also, porcelain is fired at a much higher temperature than your average ceramic. Because of this, porcelain tends to be much harder than ceramic and also less porous, which means its water absorption rating is far lower when compared to its counterpart.
As a result of its lower water absorption rating, porcelain is much better suited for colder climates where freeze or thaw conditions, could crack or break tiles. Also, you can find porcelain in a much larger variety of sizes due to its stronger makeup. Although porcelain tile can be rectified – meaning cut to smaller, more precise, and consistent sizes – this does make it the more expensive option. There is a higher skill & labor level required to cut porcelain. Its weight also affects its viability as an option for installations in larger or more unusual locations.
Ceramic tile has the benefit of being lighter than porcelain and usually less expensive. It can be glazed to provide a wider variety of colors and designs; however, it also requires more care as chipping or cracks would expose the clay color underneath, unlike porcelain which offers a full body color option, meaning that the color of the surfaces is similar to the color of the entire tile body. Not only is ceramic less expensive, so is the cost of installation due to its lighter weight and being much easier to cut to meet the needs of specific installations.
Ceramic and Porcelain in your Home
When it comes to your home and deciding on which material you should use, knowing a little more about each one can make this a much simpler process.
Porcelain can often be found in high traffic areas as well as outdoors due to it being more durable and harder than ceramic as well as being able to maintain its appearance if cracked or chipped. It is also commonly used in bathrooms and outdoor areas due to its lower water absorption rating.
Ceramic is an ideal option as a wall tile where it is less likely to chip and also would be much easier to install as a result of its lighter weight, variety in styles, and versatility as opposed to porcelain.
Making the most of your Investment
No matter the room where you’ve installed the tiles, nor what materials or the finish or texture you’ve selected, it’s essential to maintain it as lovely as the day you’ve installed it. By spending a few extra minutes, you can protect against contaminants and stains, spills or the effects of time. To learn more about the best care and maintenance of your tile, always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and if you have any additional questions contact us.
At Mosaic Tile Outlet, we help you get and keep the look you want for your home with an impressive selection of products, and the always friendly customer care.
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