Are you considering redoing your home’s bathroom, kitchen, or other surfaces? If so, one of the things on your mind might be what type of tile material to use for the project. Porcelain and ceramic are popular options, but how do you know which is best for you?
Before making a decision, it can help to understand more information about each type of tile – their benefits and drawbacks as well as any specific considerations when deciding between them.
This article will explore these questions and advise whether porcelain or ceramic tiles should be used for your next DIY job!
Our team here at Premier Porcelain have been providing clients with porcelain tiles for several years; during this time, we have learnt everything there is to know about them and how they can benefit your property, read on to find out more or speak to our team today for more information on what we can offer you!
What Is The Difference Between Porcelain & Ceramic Tiles?
Porcelain and ceramic tiles have different compositions, firing temperatures and water absorption rates.
Porcelain tiles have a finer and denser composition, are fired at higher temperatures and have a lower water absorption rate making them more durable and suitable for outdoor or high-moisture areas.
Ceramic tiles have a coarser composition, are fired at lower temperatures and have a higher water absorption rate making them better suited for indoor wall or low-moisture flooring applications.
How Are Ceramic And Porcelain Tiles Made?
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are made from a mixture of clay and other natural materials that are shaped, dried, and then fired in a kiln. The differences lie in the composition of the clay mixture and the firing process:
Porcelain tiles: The clay mixture for porcelain tiles contains finer, denser particles and is fired at higher temperatures (typically above 1300°C) for a more extended period. This makes porcelain tiles more durable and less porous than ceramic tiles.
Ceramic tiles: The clay mixture for ceramic tiles is coarser and contains more impurities. The tiles are fired at lower temperatures (typically around 1000-1200°C) for a shorter period. This results in a less dense and more porous tile better suited for indoor wall or low-moisture flooring applications.
After firing, the tiles may undergo additional finishing processes, such as glazing or polishing, to improve their appearance and durability.
What Are The Main Benefits Of Porcelain Tiles?
Porcelain tiles offer many benefits for durable and versatile flooring options. They are denser and less porous than ceramic tiles, making them resistant to wear, tear and moisture. With a wide range of styles, colours, and finishes, porcelain tiles can be used in various applications, including flooring, walls, countertops, and outdoor spaces.
They are also low maintenance, easy to clean and do not require sealing or unique treatments to retain their appearance. Porcelain tiles are non-porous, which makes them hygienic and ideal for high-traffic areas or spaces where cleanliness is essential.
Furthermore, porcelain tiles are designed to last for many years and are resistant to fading, discolouration, and cracking, making them a wise investment. Additionally, porcelain tiles are environmentally friendly, made from natural materials and often manufactured using sustainable processes.
What Are The Benefits Of Ceramic Tiles?
Affordability: Ceramic tiles are generally more affordable than porcelain tiles, making them a cost-effective option for many homeowners.
Wide Range of Styles and Designs: Ceramic tiles come in various shapes, sizes, colours and patterns, allowing for a wide range of design options.
Easy to Install: Ceramic tiles are relatively easy to install and can be cut to fit any space.
Durable: Ceramic tiles are strong and durable and can last many years with proper care and maintenance.
Water Resistant: Ceramic tiles are water-resistant, making them suitable for use in high-moisture areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Versatile: Ceramic tiles can be used for flooring, walls, countertops, and outdoor spaces and come in various finishes and textures, making them suitable for any design style.
Low Maintenance: Ceramic tiles are easy to clean and maintain and do not require sealing or unique treatments to retain their appearance.
Environmentally Friendly: Ceramic tiles are made from natural materials and often manufactured using sustainable processes, making them more eco-friendly than other flooring options.
Why Choose Porcelain Tiles Instead Of Ceramic Tiles?
There are several reasons why someone might choose porcelain tiles over ceramic tiles:
Durability: Porcelain tiles are dense and less porous than ceramic tiles, making them more resistant to wear, tear, and moisture. They are also better suited for outdoor or high-moisture areas.
Versatility: Porcelain tiles come in various styles, colours, and finishes, making them suitable for various applications, including flooring, walls, countertops, and outdoor spaces.
Low Maintenance: Porcelain tiles are easy to clean and maintain and do not require sealing or unique treatments to retain their appearance.
Hygiene: Porcelain tiles are non-porous and do not harbour bacteria or other harmful microorganisms, making them a hygienic choice for high-traffic areas or spaces where cleanliness is essential.
Longevity: Porcelain tiles are designed to last for many years and are resistant to fading, discolouration, and cracking, making them a wise investment for any space.
Environmentally friendly: Porcelain tiles are made from natural materials and often manufactured using sustainable processes, making them more eco-friendly than other flooring options.
Porcelain tiles offer more excellent durability, versatility, hygiene, and longevity than ceramic tiles, making them more suitable for certain high-traffic or high-moisture areas.
Speak To Premier Porcelain Today To Buy Porcelain Tiles
Now that we’ve looked at the critical differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles, you should know better which one is right for your project.
If you’re still unsure or have any questions, our team at Premier Porcelain would be more than happy to help. We specialise in high-quality porcelain and ceramic tiles, so no matter your needs, we can provide you with the perfect product.
Call us today or visit our website to learn more about what we can do for you.