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How To Choose Between Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles

Although porcelain and ceramic tiles are both great tile options to use, for the layman it can be challenging to tell the two apart.
Both porcelain and ceramic tiles are made from clay and baked in a kiln. Porcelain tiles are made from fine kaolin clay, which is quite dense. This type of tile requires it to be fired at a high temperature for a lengthy time. Ceramic tiles are made from coarse clay, are less dense and require a shorter firing time.
We have compiled a summary highlighting the main differences.

Appearance: Recent technological advances have given porcelain tiles a distinct advantage over ceramic times. This advantage is the ability for porcelain tiles to be produced to closely resemble other flooring material. Ceramic tiles are available in solid and patterned colors, but porcelain can be made to look like granite, marble, or even like wood grains.

Waterproof: Porcelain tends to be harder, which makes it less porous and more water resistant. Porcelain is the better option to use in typically wet environments, like sinks and showers. Porcelain is a great option to use for your next bathroom remodeling.
Heatproof: Ceramic and porcelain tiles both offer high heat resistance, making them a fantastic choice to use on countertops. When you are considering the best choice for your outdoor areas, porcelain comes out on top, due to their superior water-resistant properties.

Tile installation: As tile installers will tell you, ceramics tend to be easier to install. If you want to do a tiling DIY project, we recommend that you go with ceramics. When making use of professional tile contractors you can confidently go with porcelain, as tilers have all the necessary tools to perform precise cuts on porcelain.
Durability: Due to its structure, porcelain is generally more durable. The tile is heavier and harder than ceramic because it is fired at higher temperatures. Glazed ceramic tiles also have an impressive lifespan, but in high traffic areas, it’s better to go with porcelain.

Maintenance: Both types are easy to keep clean. Nothing more than regular mopping with a damp cloth is required for either tile option. Porcelain tiles have a solid color throughout, which makes chips or small damages less obvious. With glazed ceramic tiles, damages are easier to spot as there may be a color difference underneath the glaze.

Longevity: Porcelain tiles in general have better longevity and are more wear and tear resistant, due to their dense and hard structure. Keep in mind though that this structure also means that they lack flexibility, causing them to crack easier, especially during structural shifting. As stated by The Spruce, ceramic tiles can have a lifespan of between 75 and 100 years if they are cared for and maintained properly. Although ceramic tiles are naturally softer than porcelain tiles, they tend to be more resistant to cracking.

Cost: In general, ceramic tiles are less expensive compared to porcelain tiles, except for some top-quality ceramic tiles that are priced like porcelain tiles. Prices can vary according to your preferred brand and design.

Both ceramic and porcelain tiles are perfectly suitable for floor, wall, or a backsplash tile installation. You can decide which option will work best for you, based on price, design, or durability. At AF Quality Builders we take great pride in our ability to assist you in finding the ideal tile for your new home or home renovation project.
Contact the friendly and professional team at AF Quality Builders today for all your tiling needs.

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