Ceramic tile vs porcelain tile is one of the most common comparisons homeowners make when planning a remodeling project. It’s easy to see why; they look similar and share many of the same qualities. However, there are important differences in durability, water resistance, cost, and installation that can affect which option is right for your home.
If you’re deciding between ceramic and porcelain tile, this guide will help you compare both materials so you can choose the best fit for your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles Are Made (and Priced) Differently
All porcelain tiles are ceramic, but not all ceramic tiles are porcelain. Confused? Let us explain.
In ceramic tile manufacturing, clay, quartz, binding agents, dyes, water, and other raw materials are ground, crushed, and mixed. These components are dried and then formed into tiles using a variety of methods. The tiles are glazed and fired in a kiln. Depending on the type of tile being made, the raw materials and processes can vary.
All tiles have an absorption rating, that is, how much water a tile can absorb and hold over time. Why does the absorption rate matter? The lower the absorption rate, the greater the tile’s density and strength — a key factor in any tile durability comparison. The tile is less apt to become scratched, chipped, or show signs of wear with traffic and use.
If all tiles were manufactured using identical processes, the absorption rate would be the same from one type of tile to the next. The main factors that contribute to variations in absorption rates are the granularity (texture) of the clay used to make the tile and the temperature at which the tiles are fired in the kiln.
Ceramic tile, usually more affordable than porcelain tile, is made with courser clays and fired at lower temperatures. It has an absorption rate of 0.5% or more. Porcelain tiles are made with finer clays and fired at higher temperatures. It is a higher-quality product with an absorption rate of 0.5% or less. It is denser and harder than ceramic.
Ceramic or Porcelain: How to Choose
Many people believe that porcelain tile is always the better option, but this isn’t necessarily true. In some circumstances, ceramic tile can be a perfectly suitable, reliable, and affordable choice while porcelain may be an unnecessary, premium. Consider your tile project. Your needs and goals will help you determine which material is most suitable.
- What catches your eye? Chances are you can find a tile that appeals to your sense of style and design needs, but if you are searching for the most realistic stone or wood-look tile, porcelain is your best option.
- How much are you willing to spend? Prices may vary enough from one brand, size, or style to another so that you could find a porcelain tile that is more affordable than a comparable ceramic tile. The labor cost for installation will almost always be higher for porcelain tile, because it is harder to cut and install than ceramic tile.
- Where will the tile go? For hallways, entrances, kitchens, and other high-traffic areas, as well as outdoor spaces subject to temperature fluctuations, porcelain tile is recommended. For floors and surfaces with moderate traffic and use, like bedrooms and dining rooms or walls and backsplashes, it will hold up nicely and cost less.
- What about water exposure? For bathrooms, kitchens, pool surrounds, outdoor spaces, and other areas exposed to water or moisture, choosing the best tiles for bathroom and kitchen use is important – glazed porcelain will usually outperform ceramic tile, but ceramic tile will hold up well, too.
- Are you hiring a professional installer or doing a DIY tile project? Sometimes, a DIY project can be a fun way to expand your skills and save some money. It is easier to cut and install, which will remove some of the difficulty from your DIY project.
- What are your care expectations? When it comes to everyday care, glazed porcelain and glazed ceramic tiles are very similar. Both types of tile are stain-resistant. With high-performance grout, both types of tile should be easy to keep clean.
- What are your maintenance and repair expectations? Unglazed porcelain tile does not require sealing as often as unglazed ceramic tile, making porcelain tile maintenance simpler over time. Scratches, chips, cracks, and breaks will require professional attention. It is more durable and less prone to such damage compared to ceramic tile.
Slip Resistance
Which is less slippery, porcelain tile or ceramic tile? The answer to this question depends more on the finish of the tile than anything else. When smooth or polished tile is wet, it tends to be more slippery than tile with a textured or matte finish. Glazed ceramic and porcelain tile can be treated with anti-slip coatings to improve traction. Choosing smaller tiles helps, as well, because the grout lines provide some traction.
Porcelain Tile Adds Value to Your Home
If you anticipate selling your home, understand that porcelain tile can more positively influence the perception of potential buyers than ceramic tile. It is aesthetically appealing and creates a positive first impression, which is incredibly important in real estate sales. Buyers will have more peace of mind when they learn that the tile in your home is more resistant to scratches and chips than ceramic.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile: Sustainable and Certified Green
As previously mentioned, ceramic and porcelain tiles are made primarily of clay, the stuff that covers a good portion of the planet’s habitable surface, so tile manufacturers are typically able to source materials close to their manufacturing facilities. This reduces the energy and emissions associated with long-distance shipping of materials compared to other types of floor and surface coverings.
Properly installed ceramic and porcelain tile can last decades or longer. Both materials are considered zero-waste manufacturing materials. Both are plastic-free and recyclable. Whether you choose one or the other tile for your project, you can feel great about your earth-friendly decision.
Ceramic and porcelain are popular tile materials for bathroom renovations, kitchen makeovers, floors, and more. Remember that once your tile is set, you can’t change your mind unless you’re willing to pay for demolition and reinstallation. Your decision-making process should be fully informed. Please feel free to reach out to us with any specific questions not addressed in this article or to schedule your tile installation services.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between ceramic tile and porcelain tile?
Porcelain tile is made with finer clay and fired at higher temperatures, making it denser, harder, and more water-resistant than ceramic tile. Ceramic tile is typically more affordable and easier to cut and install.
2. Which is better for bathrooms and kitchens: ceramic or porcelain tile?
Porcelain tile is often the better choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and other moisture-prone areas because it absorbs less water and offers greater durability. However, glazed ceramic tile can also perform well in many indoor residential spaces.
3. Is porcelain tile worth the higher cost?
Porcelain tile can be worth the investment for high-traffic areas, outdoor spaces, and homeowners looking for long-term durability and low maintenance. It may also add more perceived value to a home because of its premium appearance and strength.
by Alice Dean
Copher Tile & Stone proudly stays up to date on tile installation with ongoing education with Mapei Technical Institute, Ardex Academy, the National Tile Contractors Association, Laticrete, and Schluter. Copher is a Certified Tile Installer (#1644).
Do you want a quote for tile installation? Contact us online or call 805-286-7460. We are San Luis Obispo County’s preferred tile installation company, serving Paso Robles, Templeton, Atascadero, Morro Bay, Cayucos, Cambria, San Simeon, Santa Margarita, San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach, Shell Beach, Pismo Beach, Arroyo Grande, Los Osos, and Grover Beach.
