Porcelain tiles v/s Ceramic tiles – 8 Important Differences
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are often considered the same and both are quite popular. They are widely used and applied all over in the house in the interior and exterior floors and walls, bathrooms, kitchens etc. Ceramic is made of red, white, or brown clay and kiln-fired at a lower temperature. It’s softer, more porous, less dense, and more affordable. Porcelain is a subtype of ceramic. It’s a blend of refined white clay, sand, and feldspar. They’re baked at a higher temperature, which decreases the water content within them. As a result, it’s harder, denser, less porous, and more expensive. Both ceramic and porcelain adds value to your home. We give you the 8 important differences in porcelain and ceramic tiles.
1. Hardness
Porcelain tiles are harder than Ceramic tiles, making them less prone to chipping. Porcelain tile is denser, heavier, and more impervious to water, and thus is recommended in heavy-footfall areas. Ceramic tile is somewhat more susceptible to moisture infiltration; though the differences are minimal if the tile is glazed.
2. Application
Porcelain is frost-proof, unlike ceramic; it can be used outside on heavy footfall areas. Ceramic tile needs to remain indoors, as freezing and heating can cause cracking over time. Porcelain tiles can be used on floors, walls, bedroom, kitchen backsplash, kitchen countertops, bathroom and commercial projects such as shopping malls, offices, airports etc.
3. Maintenance
Porcelain is easy to clean and maintain. All you need is a broom or vacuum and damp mop. However, keep in mind that grout should be resealed every few years. Ceramic tile are also easy to clean but they are not long lasting compared to Porcelain tiles.
4. Cost
Porcelain is the more expensive compared to the Ceramic tiles. However, it does last the longest. Ceramic tile is an inexpensive way to upgrade your home. If you’re looking to take on a budget project, this is a great material for that purpose.
5. Density & Durability
Porcelain tiles more dense and durable compared to ceramic tiles. They are harder and absorb less water compared to Ceramic tiles. Therefore, they are more useful for heavy footfall areas.
6. Water and heat resistant
Porcelain tile is denser, heavier, and more impervious to water, and thus is a better choice than Ceramic tile for outdoor locations. Porcelain tile has excellent resistance to heat, making it a good choice for countertop surfaces as well. Ceramic tile is somewhat more susceptible to moisture infiltration, though the differences are minimal if the tile is glazed. Ceramic tile is generally not recommended for outdoor locations in any environment.
7. Appearance
When it comes to appearance definitely Porcelain tile has the edge compared to Ceramic tiles. Today, Porcelain tiles are available in more colors, patterns, and surface finishes, including tiles that resemble wood, natural stone, marble etc. They have a wide range and varieties of finishes, making them more appealing compared to Ceramic tiles. In terms of finishes, textures, colors and resemblance, ceramic tiles have limitations.
8. Installation
Both Porcelain and ceramic tiles can be easily installed. But both require different process and care, while installing. There are few steps that vary in the installation process. Porcelain tile is frailer and may require the experienced hand of an experienced tile-setter to cut properly. Whereas Ceramic Tile is easier material, one can easily cut the tile manually, by wet tile saw, or with a snap tile cutter. Although techniques are very similar, ceramic tile is slightly easier to install, since it is a softer material that is easier to cut compared to Porcelain tile.
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