Porcelain Tile vs Ceramic Tile: What’s the Difference?
Porcelain tile and ceramic tile are two popular flooring options available in the market today. However, while they may belong to the same family of tiles, they have several distinctions. Both these tiles are manufactured from clay, but the manufacturing process, materials used, and the end result varies. If you’re contemplating between porcelain tile vs ceramic tile for your next flooring project, read on to find out the difference between the two.
What is Porcelain Tile?
Porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile that’s made from finer clay particles, which are denser and less porous than the ones used to make ceramic tiles. Porcelain tile is fired at a higher temperature that usually ranges from 1200 to 1400 degrees Celsius, which makes it highly durable and strong. The process of making porcelain tile involves compressing the clay particles, refining them, and then firing them at a high temperature, often with the addition of feldspar or quartz.
What are the Benefits of Porcelain Tile?
1. Durability: Porcelain tiles are highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic, making them ideal for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial settings.
2. Resistance to Water: Porcelain tiles are highly resistant to water, which makes them ideal for use in areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
3. Low Maintenance: Porcelain tiles are easy to clean and low-maintenance, making them ideal for people who don’t have the time to regularly clean their floors.
4. Style and Design: Porcelain tiles come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and designs, which gives homeowners a vast selection to choose from when it comes to designing their floors.
5. Installability: Installing porcelain tiles is relatively easy and straightforward, making it a great choice for homeowners looking to install their flooring by themselves.
What is Ceramic Tile?
Ceramic tiles are made from a mixture of clay, sand, and water that’s molded into shape and then fired at a lower temperature than porcelain tiles, usually at around 900 to 1100 degrees Celsius. The resulting tiles are less dense, more porous, and more prone to breakage than porcelain tiles.
What are the Benefits of Ceramic Tile?
1. Affordability: Ceramic tiles are typically more affordable than porcelain tiles, which makes them a great option for homeowners on a budget.
2. Style and Design: Like porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles also come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and designs, which makes it easy for homeowners to find the perfect tile to match their design aesthetic.
3. Versatility: Ceramic tiles are versatile and can be used both indoors and outdoors, making them a great option for homeowners looking to create a cohesive look for their home.
4. Easy to Clean: Ceramic tiles are easy to clean and maintain, which makes them an ideal option for high-traffic areas.
Porcelain Tile vs Ceramic Tile: Which is Better?
Both porcelain tile and ceramic tile are great flooring options, and the one you choose for your home depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the area where you plan to install the tile. While porcelain tiles are stronger, more durable, and better suited for high-traffic areas like entryways and bathrooms, ceramic tiles are more affordable and versatile, making them a great option for homeowners looking to create a cohesive look throughout their home.
In conclusion, when it comes to porcelain tile vs ceramic tile, the choice ultimately comes down to the homeowner’s personal preferences, style, and budget. With a vast selection of styles, colors, and designs available in both porcelain and ceramic tiles, homeowners are sure to find the perfect tile to match their design aesthetic and create a beautiful, durable, and functional flooring for their indoor or outdoor spaces.