Porcelain Tiles Vs. Ceramic Tiles: Which Is Best for Your Home Decor?

Are you building your dream home? Which flooring should you opt for – ceramic or porcelain? Porcelain and ceramic are clay-based and kiln-fired tiles respectively. They are often used interchangeably and are like siblings. Despite their similarities, they have a significant number of differences too.

Both are visually pleasing and versatile as flooring materials and come in different colours and designs. You can choose from a varied selection to decorate the floors, walls, and backsplashes of your kitchen and bathroom. While they both have common advantages, it is important to gain a deeper insight so that you can decorate your house with the right material. Here are the things you need to know about porcelain and ceramic tiles.

Difference Between Porcelain Tiles and Ceramic Tiles

• Manufacturing process
  • Porcelain is a specialised type of ceramic. It is a mixture of refined clay, ultrafine sand, and feldspar. Compared to ceramic tiles, manufacturing porcelain ones is an arduous task but it is more durable and long-lasting.
  • Ceramic is made with red, brown and white clay, and kiln-fired at a high temperature, but somewhat lower when compared to porcelain tiles. Since the clay used to make it is less refined, it is less durable when compared to porcelain tiles.
• Water and stain resistance
  
  • Porcelain tiles are less porous and denser. Also categorised as impervious, porcelain is the perfect choice for bathrooms because the water absorption rate is less than 0.5 %. This also gives an idea about its ability to absorb food and beverage stains.
  • Ceramic tiles are more porous and have a higher water absorption rate but with proper installation, they can be used for bathroom and other applications.
• Cut resistance
  • Porcelain tiles are harder to cut and tougher to install because of their dense nature.
  • Ceramic is easier to cut into different shapes. In fact, it can be cut manually with a snap tile cutter.
• Colour and appeal
  • Porcelain tiles are limited to a range of basic or very simple styles and designs such as marble, granite, hardwood, and limestone.
  • Ceramic on the other hand is easier to work with and hence boasts a plethora of intricate and aesthetic design options.
• Maintenance
  • As mentioned before, porcelain is much more durable when compared to ceramic. Due to its dense nature, porcelain tiles are very tough and easy to It needs to be cleaned regularly to keep it free of unwanted bacteria and germs.
  • Ceramic tiles are easy to maintain too as they are dense and tough to crack. Stains and dirt can be removed with the help of a mop. They also have the same property as porcelain in terms of the ability to inhibit germ and bacterial growth.
• Cost
  • Porcelain tiles are more expensive and difficult to repair. This should serve as a heads up for people with tight budgets.
  • Ceramic tiles cost less than its porcelain counterpart. It is cheaper and affordable by almost everyone with a decent budget. The downside is that it requires extra attention and maintenance to ensure its durability.

How to Pick the Right Material?

• Porcelain tiles are used for both interior and exterior decorations.
• Ceramic tiles are predominantly used for interior decorations.
• Porcelain tiles are typically used for flooring purpose You can choose this for general floor decorations. It can be used on walls depending on its weight. Porcelain floor tiles are generally recommended for spaces with high moisture content like bathrooms.
• Ceramic tiles can be used for both floors and walls. Ceramic is most suitable for bathrooms and kitchens.
• Porcelain tiles are recommended for high foot traffic areas.
• Ceramic tiles are recommended for low foot traffic areas. 

Looking for the Best Tile Provider?

This article probably gave you an insight into choosing the right kind of material for your home decor. However, the process is far from complete. Finding a dealer to help you with your requirements and guarantee quality products is the next step.

Amazing Tiles & Stone is one of the leading tile store in Melbourne when it comes to tiles. It offers a wide range of designs – both porcelain and ceramic – at the best rates.  Finding the perfect tile is so much easier when you have a plethora of options to choose from. From porcelain kitchen tiles to ceramic tile flooring for your office, you will find them all here.

The company also takes on larger delivery orders and even tends to retail needs – very handy if you are working on a commercial or large-scale project. You can simply reach out to them by mailing them at reception@amazingtiles.com.au or call on 03 9364 8149/03 9336 3379 for additional information.