Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles: What’s the Difference?

Capella Clay 12x24 Matte Porcelain Tile

When you’re getting your house renovated, choosing the right tiles can be a bit of a tough job. Even if you have your eyes on the right design, the material of the tiles presents another challenge altogether. For instance, there has always been a bit of a cloud surrounding porcelain and ceramic tiles. 

At first glance, they may appear to be very similar- almost indistinguishable. Some dealers and traders may also make you believe that they are indeed one and the same thing. But the real knowledge lies in knowing the subtle little differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles.

The main differences

Porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles can be differentiated based on their genetic makeup. Ceramic tiles are constructed with red, white or brown clay, and are soft. Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, are harder, denser, and are made of sand, white clay and feldspar. 

Due to this, they are more suitable for exterior usage than ceramic tiles. Areas with high footfalls, such as domestic floors, construction areas and such, should make use of porcelain tiles as they are much stronger than ceramic ones.

Ceramic tiles absorb more moisture, are less stain-resistant and may even crack in cold weather. Although they are cheaper and easier to cut, they are most suitably used for wall tiling or bathroom floors. 

Porcelain tiles are expensive and harder to cut, but their properties justify the extra costs.

According to the Porcelain Enamel Institute, a PEI rating of 3-4 is given to ceramic tiles, which means that they are suitable for light to moderate footfall. 

For porcelain tiles, the rating lies between 3 and 5, making them suitable for all kinds of usage, even in areas with heavy footfall.

For porcelain tiles of appealing designs, colors, and patterns, please visit www.wallandtile.com -  one of the largest online places to buy tiles.