How to Choose Between Porcelain v. Ceramic Tile

Are you contemplating between porcelain and ceramic tiles for your next home project? The choice can be daunting, considering their subtle yet crucial differences. Let’s delve into the nuances of porcelain and ceramic tiles, empowering you to make an informed decision for your space.

The Main Differences Between Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles

Porcelain and ceramic tiles, while sharing commonalities, boast unique characteristics:

Porcelain Tile:

Porcelain tile, crafted from dense clay and fired at high temperatures, epitomizes durability and water resistance.

Pros: Exceptional water resistance, unparalleled durability, resistance to stains, and a plethora of design options make porcelain tiles a top choice. Their versatility allows for use in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Cons: Despite its myriad benefits, porcelain tiles may come at a higher price point compared to ceramic. Additionally, their inherent brittleness requires careful handling during installation.

Ceramic Tile:

Ceramic tiles, molded from a mixture of clay and other natural materials, offer a budget-friendly alternative with versatile design options.

Pros: Affordability, versatility in design, and suitability for walls make ceramic tiles a popular choice among homeowners. Their diverse range of finishes and styles cater to various aesthetic preferences.

Cons: Ceramic tiles have a higher water absorption rate, limiting their outdoor use. While they excel in certain applications, they may not match the durability of porcelain tiles.

Resistance to Heat & Water

Porcelain Tile: Porcelain tiles excel in both heat and water resistance, making them an ideal choice for areas prone to moisture and temperature fluctuations, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Their low porosity prevents water absorption, reducing the risk of damage from moisture and ensuring long-term durability.

Ceramic Tile: While ceramic tiles offer decent resistance to water, they may not be as impervious to heat and moisture as porcelain tiles. As a result, they are more suitable for dry areas or spaces with minimal exposure to water, such as kitchen backsplashes or an accent wall in your bathroom.

Durability & Upkeep for Tile

Porcelain Tile: Renowned for their durability, porcelain tiles are highly resistant to scratches, stains, and wear and tear. Their dense composition and low porosity make them easy to maintain, requiring minimal upkeep to retain their pristine appearance for years to come.

Ceramic Tile: Although ceramic tiles are durable, they are generally less robust than porcelain tiles. While they can withstand moderate wear and tear, they may be more prone to chipping and scratching over time. Regular maintenance, such as sealing grout lines and cleaning with gentle solutions, can help prolong their lifespan.

Tile Maintenance & Cleaning

Porcelain Tile: Cleaning porcelain tiles is a breeze, thanks to their smooth surface and low porosity. Regular sweeping or vacuuming followed by mopping with a mild detergent solution is usually sufficient to keep them looking like new.

Ceramic Tile: Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintain the beauty of ceramic tiles. Regular sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and debris, combined with periodic mopping using a gentle cleaner, will help preserve their appearance. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning tools, as they can damage the glaze and affect the tile’s longevity.

Koen Wood Naturale by Ape (Available at Procida Tile)

Choosing the Right Tile for Your Space

Kitchen:

• Backsplash: Both porcelain and ceramic tiles offer a plethora of design options for kitchen backsplashes. Consider ceramic tiles for a cost-effective solution with endless design possibilities, perfect for adding a pop of color or pattern to your kitchen.
• Flooring: Porcelain tiles are the go-to choice for kitchen flooring due to their exceptional durability and water resistance. However, if you’re working with a tight budget, ceramic tiles can also be a suitable option for kitchen floors, especially in areas with minimal exposure to moisture. Do keep in mind that if a heavy item falls on a ceramic tile, it will crack. 

Bathroom:

• Shower Walls: Opt for porcelain tiles for shower walls, where water resistance and durability are paramount. Their low porosity ensures longevity and easy maintenance, making them an ideal choice for wet areas.
• Shower Floors: Porcelain tiles are also recommended for shower floors to prevent water damage and ensure safety. We do not recommend use of ceramic tiles on shower floors, due to their delicate nature.
• Bathroom Walls & Floors: Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for bathroom walls, offering versatility in design and affordability. Their ability to withstand moderate moisture levels makes them suitable for use in bathroom walls. For bathroom floors, porcelain tiles are preferred for their superior durability and resistance to water.

Silverlake Cava Degli Orsi by Mirage (Available at Procida Tile)

Outdoor:

• Patios & Walkways: Porcelain tiles reign supreme in outdoor settings, such as patios and walkways, where durability is essential. Their resistance to moisture and harsh weather conditions makes them ideal for enduring the elements.
• Pool Surround: Porcelain tiles are also the preferred choice for pool surrounds, providing slip resistance and durability. However, if budget constraints are a concern, ceramic tiles with proper sealing can be considered for pool surrounds as well.

Choosing between porcelain and ceramic tiles hinges on your specific needs and preferences. While porcelain offers unmatched durability and versatility, ceramic presents a budget-friendly option with ample design possibilities. Whatever your choice, Procida Tile stands ready to assist you. Elevate your space with our premium selection of porcelain and ceramic tiles, backed by our team of expert designers. Visit us today to embark on your tile journey and unlock the ultimate design experience.

Empowered with knowledge, embark on your tile selection journey, confident in your decision to enhance your space with porcelain or ceramic tiles.