Porcelain vs Ceramic Tile: In-Depth Comparison

Have you ever been into the battle of porcelain vs ceramic tile? Or is it even a debate to discuss two different materials?

A few people might consider both terms the same, but in reality, they are quite the opposite. People mistakenly found them the same because both are installed following the same method and the way both are used in the same application.

In this guide, I will explain the comparison of both notable tiles and the pros of cons of each one so that you get a better idea. Let’s get started.

Porcelain vs Ceramic Tile: Which One is Better?

We will start this differentiation of porcelain vs ceramic tile with the details of both the flooring options. Let’s point out the major differences between both terms to know how they differ.

Porcelain Tiles

It is composed of a few natural ingredients and a lump of clay that is molded in the desired shape once the mixture is ready.

After that, it is set on fire at a high temperature, letting the tile shift to a natural stone, concrete, and another material shape. After that, it somehow looks like ceramic tile’s subtype.

However, when it comes to durability, Porcelain is above all. This type of tile construction is sturdy; that’s why it stays for long when you install porcelain tile flooring in your house.

Amazingly, you can safely consider this type of tile flooring anywhere because it has less absorption rate than ceramic tile. You can go ahead with this tile for washrooms as well.

On the other hand, they hold heavy foot traffic, so you can consider them for countertops without any second thought.

They are easy to clean and maintain because all it takes is to apply a vacuum once or sometimes twice a week. Yes, they are costly, but the advantages and features they provide you with make them worth considering.

Ceramic Tiles

The major difference between both tiles is; that you can not set them on fire at high temperatures. Due to this factor, they are not so porous and dense as compared to porcelain tiles.

The clay in this type of tile is less refined that’s why it is soft, less durable, and also cheap. People living in places that have a warm temperature usually consider this type of tile because they give a pleasant and welcoming feel in the summer season.

You can get a lot of choices when it comes to choosing Ceramic tile so this is the best advantage you get. Not only it is cheap but also easy to install and can be done at home as DIY work.

Get your hands on a simple cutter and your tiles will be cut down easily for installation. However, you have to instantly get rid of spills or any type of stain because it can cause damage to the tiles.

Pros of Porcelain Floor Tile

Now you are well aware of the comparison, let’s have a look at a few pros of Porcelain tile that depict why it is worth considering.

They are Durable

Durability is the main element why people always consider this type of tile. You can easily place them in high foot traffic areas due to this feature. They are hard, tough, and less porous.

Low Absorption Rate

You can also use them as bathroom floor tiles because they can be installed in places where water stays for long. Even if the water stays for many hours on these tiles, they won’t get affected.

Withstand Heavy Traffic

You do not need to think twice before installing this type of tile because it can hold heavy foot traffic without any wear and tear. Hence, go ahead with them anywhere you want.

They are Easy to Maintain

Above all, you do not need to spend a lot or put any extra effort into maintaining porcelain tile. All it takes is regular vacuuming.

Cons of Porcelain Tiles

A few cons include:

They are Expensive

With so many features you can not expect it to be cheap. They are more costly and not within everyone’s range.

Difficult to Cut

You need to hire someone for tile cutting work because they are hard enough that you find it tough to cut them.

Pros of Ceramic Tiles

A few worth mentioning pros of these tiles are:

They are Cheap

For those who want cost-effective tiles, it is the best option. They are cheap as compared to porcelain tiles.

Numerous Options

You can find a wide range of ceramic tiles in terms of designs and colors. Hence, you can easily find designs according to your taste and requirement.

They are Easy to Cut

Another great advantage is the ease of cutting. You can easily cut the tiles for installation without putting a lot of effort.

Attractive Appearance

It is the most eye-catchy tile option you should go for.

Cons of Ceramic Tile

A few cons that let you think twice before buying them include:

They are Less Durable

Durability is the main concern whenever we install new flooring or tiles but unfortunately, it is not as durable as porcelain. They are soft, porous, and not so tough because of being set on fire at a low temperature.

Do Not Install Everywhere

Better avoid installing ceramic in places where there is a lot of moisture including washrooms. laundry, kitchen, etc because they do not absorb moisture like porcelain.

Types of Porcelain Tiles

Let’s have a look at a few types of porcelain tiles that people normally use in their homes. They include:

Matte or unglazed porcelain tiles
Glazed porcelain tiles
Polished porcelain tiles
Full-body porcelain tiles
Double charged porcelain tiles
Textured or stone finish tiles

Types of Ceramic Tiles

There are three different types of ceramic tiles that you can consider for your home. They include:

Glazed ceramic tiles
Wall ceramic tiles
Floor tiles

Porcelain Tile Certification

For many years there was no debate on ceramic vs porcelain until 2008 when tables were turned and the manufacturers of both tiles were presented by the Tile Council of North America.

There was a new group formed with the name ‘Porcelain tile certification agency’ to clear out the major difference.

According to the Tile Council of North America, a tile being able to absorb water is not enough as it should be able to meet different criteria including 5 different samples for water testing, fee submission, presenting an agreement to participate, etc.

Almost 28 different tile companies from North America were declared authentic for producing the correct porcelain tiles.

Choosing Porcelain Tiles and Ceramic Tiles

Now you might be wondering how to choose the correct porcelain and ceramic tiles that last long and don’t wear or tear. Let’s have a look at a few steps below that depict the answer.

Understand the Types

Various porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles are mentioned above so before buying them you must understand what each type is. After knowing the difference, you can choose according to the requirement.

Select the Tile According to Lifestyle

It is better to decide where you are going to place a tile before buying it because it will be easy for you to decide according to the interior and lifestyle.

For instance, if you are looking for Porcelain to be installed in Kitchens or bathrooms then I would suggest you textured, matt surface.

The Tile must be Future-Proof

Make sure the tile you select must be future-proof practically and in looks as well. For this purpose, choose neutral colors, and natural effects instead of bold and focused finishing.

Choose the Right Style and Pattern

We all know that porcelain tiles are available in different patterns and styles but you can not randomly choose them. Finding the right pattern and style that matches the room’s overall look is important.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

We are yet to point out a few commonly asked questions regarding ceramic tile flooring and Porcelain tile flooring. The queries include:

Which Tile is Better Porcelain or Ceramic?

Each tile has different pros and cons so one can not decide which one is better. However, if you want cheap tile, go with ceramic and if you want the most durable one, porcelain tile will be the best.

Is Porcelain or Ceramic Better for Floors?

Yes, both are quite popular when it comes to choosing tile flooring and are used in almost every next household.

Which is More Expensive Ceramic or Porcelain?

Porcelain tiles are almost 60% more expensive than Ceramic tiles. Porcelain is durable, tougher, and less porous that’s why they are not within everyone’s range.

Which Cracks Easier Porcelain or Ceramic Tile?

Porcelain tiles can be installed anywhere including in areas where there is a lot of moisture. Moreover, they withstand heavy foot traffic. On the other hand, you have to take care of ceramic tiles so that they last long.

What are the Pros and Cons of Porcelain Tile?

Porcelain tiles are highly durable and can hold heavy foot traffic. They easily absorb moisture so can be placed anywhere in the house including washrooms.

You can never doubt the quality of these tiles. On the other hand, they are more expensive and do not cut easily because of being too hard.

Final Thoughts

So it was all about an in-depth comparison of porcelain vs ceramic tile that has surely made things clear for you. There is a major difference in the working of both tiles so they are completely different as mentioned above.

One can not decide which one is better because each tile has pros and cons. It all depends on your priority. If you are low on pocket then ceramic would be the right choice.

However, if you can not compromise durability, porcelain is the best for you. I have covered every point regarding both tiles including the major differences, pros, cons, types, etc.

Now it will be easy for you to make the right choice. I hope this guide will accommodate you in the future.