Builders Flooring Inc

Flooring and Carpets in Onalaska, WI

Porcelain Versus Ceramic Floor Tiles

 

Porcelain and ceramic floor tiles are both popular choices for flooring, and they share many similarities but also have some key differences. Here’s a comparison between porcelain and ceramic floor tiles:

1. Composition:

A pile of grey and white marble slabs.
  • Porcelain Tiles:
    • Porcelain tiles are made from a type of clay known as “kaolin.”
    • They are fired at very high temperatures, resulting in a dense and hard material.
    • Porcelain tiles are known for their low water absorption rate, typically less than 0.5%.
  • Ceramic Tiles:
    • Ceramic tiles are made from a mixture of clay, minerals, and water.
    • They are fired at lower temperatures compared to porcelain tiles.
    • Ceramic tiles are generally less dense and have a higher water absorption rate, typically above 0.5%.

2. Durability:

  • Porcelain Tiles:
    • Porcelain tiles are extremely durable and are suitable for high-traffic areas.
    • They are resistant to wear, scratching, and chipping.
    • Due to their low water absorption, porcelain tiles are less prone to cracking in freezing temperatures, making them suitable for outdoor use in cold climates.
  • Ceramic Tiles:
    • While ceramic tiles are still durable and suitable for many residential applications, they are generally considered less durable than porcelain tiles.
    • They may be more susceptible to chipping and cracking in high-traffic areas or harsh conditions.

3. Water Resistance:

  • Porcelain Tiles:
    • Porcelain tiles have excellent water resistance due to their low water absorption rate, making them ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and areas exposed to moisture.
  • Ceramic Tiles:
    • Ceramic tiles are less water-resistant compared to porcelain tiles, so they may not be the best choice for areas with high moisture levels.

4. Appearance:

  • Both porcelain and ceramic tiles come in a wide range of colors, styles, and patterns, allowing you to achieve various aesthetic effects.

5. Cost:

  • Porcelain tiles are typically more expensive than ceramic tiles, primarily because of their higher manufacturing costs and superior durability.

6. Installation:

  • Installation processes for both types of tiles are similar, involving adhesive and grout. However, due to porcelain’s greater density, it can be harder to cut and may require specialized tools.

7. Maintenance:

  • Both types of tiles are relatively easy to clean and maintain. Regular sweeping and mopping should suffice. The choice of grout can also affect maintenance, as some grouts are more stain-resistant than others.

8. Use Case:

  • Porcelain tiles are often recommended for high-traffic areas, commercial spaces, and outdoor applications due to their durability and water resistance.
  • Ceramic tiles are suitable for residential areas with moderate traffic and where water exposure is not excessive.

In summary, while both porcelain and ceramic tiles offer beautiful design options, porcelain is generally the more durable and water-resistant option, making it a preferred choice for areas prone to moisture and heavy use. Ceramic tiles are still a good choice for many residential applications, but they may require more care in high-traffic areas or locations with greater exposure to moisture. Your choice should depend on your specific needs, budget, and the intended use of the tiles.