Porcelain vs ceramic tiles

Which tile is better, porcelain or ceramic?

When it comes to tile flooring, porcelain and ceramic are quite similar. In fact, porcelain is actually a type of ceramic. However, porcelain is baked at a higher temperature, which makes it more dense of a material than ceramic. Also, they’re composed slightly differently. Read on to learn more about porcelain and ceramic tile flooring!

Advantages of porcelain

Durability

Porcelain does not earn its name unless it has a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%. Because of this, it’s highly moisture-resistant, which means that liquids won’t be able to penetrate the tile’s surface. This, in turn, prevents cracking.

Through-Body Color

Porcelain typically has through-body color, which means that even if it experiences a crack, the color will remain the same throughout. If an object chips the surface, the chip will be quite difficult to notice.

Versatile

Perhaps the best part of porcelain tile is that it can be installed both indoors and outdoors. The material’s density and moisture-resistant properties make it perfect for outdoor tiling, as both flooring and countertops. Additionally, it can withstand outdoor elements well.

Advantages of ceramic

Affordable

As we mentioned earlier, ceramic and porcelain tiles are quite similar. While porcelain is slightly higher-quality and more durable, it’s more expensive than ceramic. Therefore, ceramic tile might be a better option for those on a tighter budget.

DIY Installation

Ceramic tile can be installed on your own. Since it’s a softer tile, it can be cut using a simple tile cutter. Tile cutters are safer to use by the average person than wet saws are. However, you should make sure to read the instructions first.

Visually Appealing

Ceramic tile flooring is quite visually appealing. Ceramic tile flooring can suit nearly any environment and add visual appeal.

Disadvantages of porcelain

Expensive

As you’d expect, the many advantages of porcelain tile come at a price. However, while porcelain flooring tile can is expensive, you won’t have to spend money on maintenance for many years to come.

Requires Professional Installation

Porcelain tiles require professional installation, which means that installation cannot be a DIY project. Since porcelain tiles are harder, they require a wet saw to cut. Wet saws should only be used by those who have experience using them.

Disadvantages of ceramic

Vulnerable to Moisture Penetration

Ceramic tiles don’t have a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%. If it did, it’d be considered porcelain. Ceramic tile is more vulnerable to moisture penetration, which will eventually result in the tiles cracking.

Revealing

Ceramic tile does not have through-body color. Thus, any damage to the tile will be obvious to anyone looking at it. Additionally, damaged tile will require repair. Not repairing the tiles will mean that the look of your floor will suffer.

If you’re interested in either porcelain or ceramic tile flooring, visit Floors BLVD. We have a wide variety of tile flooring options available. Call Floors BLVD today at (469) 535-9246! Also, check out our blog for more helpful tips!