Porcelain vs. Ceramic Tiles - Which Is the Better Choice?

Porcelain vs. Ceramic Tiles – Which Is the Better Choice?

Choosing the right type of tile flooring for your building could be challenging. This blog discusses the key features of ceramic and porcelain tiles.

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Choosing the right flooring for your dream office can prove challenging. As there are many flooring options available now, the product you choose can have a considerable impact on the overall look and feel of your building. You have to carefully consider several factors like – type of tiles, personal tastes and preferences, style and comfort, practicality of usage, durability, moisture

resistance

and

maintenance

requirements.

Porcelain

and

ceramic tiles are the most common types of tiles, each having their own set of unique characteristics. So, how to arrive at a decision as to which type to choose?

Often, there is a bit confusion surrounding the differences between ceramic and porcelain tiles. Both are technically "ceramic" because they are made from a mixture of clay and other natural materials. Porcelain tiles, however, are composed of finer porcelain clay and are fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tiles. The result is a tile that performs very differently from ceramic tile.

Ideal for interior wall applications, (particularly in areas that will not be exposed to standing water), ceramic stone tiles are generally made from white or red clay, which is fired and given its color from a layer of glaze.

When compared to porcelain, it has more color options and designs and is easier to cut which means it is easier to install. This makes it a popular option with DIYers and installers.

Made of finer clay, porcelain tiles are denser than ceramic tiles and more durable. However, this also makes it harder to cut and requires expert installers who can cut the tile properly. Porcelain wall tiles come in two forms – “Glazed and full-body color”. Glazed porcelain tile is similar to ceramic tile as it gets its color and pattern from a layer of glaze that is

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applied on its surface. Full-body porcelain tiles, on the other hand, carry their color and pattern throughout the entire tile, and help prevent any visible wear and tear on the surface.

Ceramic Tiles PROS

CONS

Denser and water-resistant

Might need sealant

Easier to cut

Absorbs more water

Fire resistant

Difficult to clean

Hypo-allergenic

Heavyweight

Easy installation

Prone to stains and cracking (in cold weather)

Low maintenance Multitude of designs Highly durable

Porcelain Tiles PROS

CONS

More durable

Harder to cut and shape

Water and stain resistant

More limited in color and style

Low maintenance

Some textures are difficult to clean

More hardwearing

More expensive

Fire-resistant

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Ph: 888.773.2845

When making a choice, it’s important to choose tiles that not only look good but also suit your building dÊcor. In addition, it should be capable of withstanding the test of time. If you plan to lay tiles in the hall, or other living space then porcelain tiles would be ideal as these offer extra durability. On the other hand, if you are planning to renovate a bathroom, you can either use porcelain or ceramic depending on your individual preference. Make sure to purchase ceramic or porcelain tiles from a reliable and reputable tile distributor in New York. Such dealers offer quality products with class ratings from the Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI).

www.prospecllc.com

Ph: 888.773.2845