Ceramic Tile vs. Porcelain
Source Article
The clays
used to produce porcelain tile, technically a type of ceramic, are denser and
fired longer and at higher temperatures. The difference in materials and
production techniques produce tiles with different advantages and
disadvantages.
The
packaging will be labeled, but there are other ways to tell the difference.
·
Porcelain
tile is the same color throughout the material. Ceramic most often had a glazed
surface, so a chipped surface will reveal another color.
·
Porcelain
will be smoother than ceramic.
·
Ceramic
tiles are less dense and slightly lighter.
Benefits of
Porcelain Tile
·
Durability:
The density of porcelain tile makes it more durable than ceramic tile while
being less subject to wear and tear. This makes it more suitable for commercial
use as well as in the home.
·
Water
Resistance: Porcelain tile is almost impervious to water compared to ceramic
tile. According to the ASTM standards, porcelain must have a water absorption
rate of 0.5-percent or lower. Ceramic tiles are more porous and often have a
higher water absorption rate.
·
Through-Body
Composition: Because of the uniform color of material in unglazed porcelain
tile, small chips may not be as noticeable as they would be on a piece of
ceramic tile.
Drawbacks of
Porcelain
·
Cutting: Porcelain is very strong. It requires skill using
special tools to cut it. This can be challenging for an inexperienced DIYer. A
homeowner may prefer to pay for professional installation.
·
Cost: It costs more to manufacture porcelain tile. This means a
higher price compared to ceramic tile. Its long-term durability, however,
offers savings over time.
Benefits of
Ceramic tile
Versatile ceramic tile
comes in finishes ranging from simple to ornate and classic to contemporary.
· Cost: The differences in ingredients
and preparation mean that ceramic tile can be less expensive than porcelain
tile.
· Ease of Cutting: Ceramic tile is
easier to cut, making it better suited for home DIY projects.
· Flexibility: Some experts find ceramic tile
more flexible if you want a more artful, intricate and eye-catching design in
such places as backsplashes. Ceramic wall tile can be preferable in such
situations. In addition, glazed ceramic tiles can be customized in more colors
and patterns.
· Texture: Some varieties of ceramic tiles have
a textured surface that adds visual depth and dimension. You can often find
tiles with ripples, waves or raised shapes.
Ceramic is a popular tile choice for many
residential uses. However, there are other considerations.
·
Water Absorption: Resistance to
water is perhaps the biggest factor in the ceramic tile vs. porcelain decision.
Ceramic tile is more porous and therefore has a higher water absorption rate.
It should not be used in outside applications.
·
Durability: Ceramic tile is not as
tough as porcelain. Avoid using it in high-traffic areas.
Porcelain
bathroom tiles have greater water resistance. They will work well in rooms
subject to a lot of moisture. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are frequently used
in bathrooms and showers.