When you purchase tiles for your house, you must distinguish between ceramic and porcelain tiles. Both are made from a compound of clay and other materials fired in a kiln to produce finished products. Porcelain and ceramic tiles belong to the type of “ceramic tiles.” Ceramic tiles are divided into ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles. Generally speaking, porcelain tiles are of premium quality and more resistant to damage because they are fired at a higher temperature and are made of materials with less porosity.
Ⅰ. An apparent comparison
The principal difference between porcelain and ceramic tile is water absorption. Porcelain tiles absorb lower than 0.5% water, while ceramic and other non-porcelain tiles are higher water absorption. This depends on the material used to make the tiles. Clay is denser, and less porous. It affects how the tiles behave and what they’re best used for.
Ⅱ. Construction
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain TilesPorcelain tiles are made of refined clay and other natural elements. The clay-based construction makes porcelain tile a subtype of ceramic tiles; but porcelain tile is more excellent durability than ceramic tile. Homeowners can select either glazed or non-glazed porcelain tiles. non-glazed or full-body tiles have colorful color running through the whole thickness (or opposed to a glaze placed on the top), which make them longer-lasting and more resistant to chipping.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tile is fired at a lower temperature than porcelain tiles, which can make them less dense, softer, and porous. The clay used is also less refined than porcelain’s, making it a more affordable and better option. Many homeowners choose to pave ceramic tiles as floor tiles, especially in a warm climate, the natural coolness of tiles has become a major advantage in summer.
Ⅱ. Advantages -- Porcelain tiles & Ceramic tiles
Porcelain Tiles
Wear-resistant
Porcelain tile is highly wear-resistant and expects to last better over many years than standard ceramic tile. That’s mainly because porcelain tile has fewer air pockets, is a denser material, is more uniform in construction, and tends to be harder and thicker overall than most other tile varieties.
Low Maintenance
Porcelain tiles look great; they’re tough and easy to maintain. They do not require special sealing like other tiles to prevent water. Porcelain tiles are paved into floor tiles for easy cleaning. Water can be directly wiped clean without causing any damage. Ceramic tile flooring is the easiest to maintain among all the different flooring.
Highly Durable
One of the essential porcelain tiles’ advantages is its durability. Porcelain tiles are made of high-quality refined clay that has been fired at a higher temperature and are designed to be more durable than most other patterns of flooring on the market.
Offered in a wide range of styles
Porcelain tiles can look like marble, granite, hardwoods, limestone, and just about any other patterns you are interested in. Porcelain tile is highly diverse, so you can decide on one style when investing in porcelain.
Ceramic Tiles
Environmentally friendly
Most of ceramic tiles are made from recycled and/or environmental materials. Ceramic tile can decrease your energy use (and bills) by holding your house cooler in the summer as well. They can even can winter warmth to your home.
Moisture and bacteria proof
The hard surface of the tiles makes them impenetrable, which means they are waterproof and moisture-proof, so the tiles are not easy to breed bacteria and mold. It makes ceramic tiles most suitable for wet areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. Tiles require minimal maintenance and provide a sterile and hygienic environment for the kitchen.
Design
Ceramic tiles provide a wide range of design options for those who want to decorate their homes. They are also easy to customize because tiles can be installed with other types of tiles to create their own unique patterns. In addition, you can also choose tiles similar to wood or natural stone.
CONCLUSION
Tiles are becoming the go-to choice for designers and homeowners for a number of reasons. Through the above description, you should have a certain understanding of porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages. How to choose depends on your design and the use of the area.