Ceramic tiles vs. porcelain tiles: the differences explained
They might look the same, but there are differences between ceramic and porcelain tiles that will help you decide which to choose.
With a whole world of tile styles and choices out there, just taking the first step and choosing between a porcelain tile or a ceramic tile can be a little daunting. We’re often asked which of the two is the better choice. The short answer is, you won’t go wrong with either porcelain tiles or ceramic tiles. Both offer great versatility and style choice. They’re sound options as both floor tiles and wall tiles and neither one is inherently better than the other. However, the devil is in the detail so there are some specifics that determine which space is best for which type of tile.
It starts with understanding how ceramic and porcelain tiles are made
Essentially the process of making ceramic and porcelain tiles is the same. Both are kiln-fired and then transformed into any number of desirable styles from wood-effect tiles to stylish marble-effect designs that look deceptively like the real stone. Ceramic tiles are made from red, brown and white clay then fired at a high temperature, which removes the moisture. They’re then glazed and patterned. By comparison, porcelain tiles are made from finer particles of white clay and dust and fired at a higher temperature than ceramics. This means that porcelain tiles are denser and less porous than ceramic tiles, and they are also very hard wearing.
While you do get ceramic outdoor tiles, they aren't suited to outdoor use in our weather conditions. Anti-slip porcelain tiles are the best option for patios and gardens (above left and right).
Durable tiles for family homes
Both porcelain and ceramic are durable choices for floors in homes and more suitable to high-traffic areas, children and pets than wood floors. Durability of a tile depends on the glaze and installation. Generally speaking, porcelain tiles do offer that extra level of durability because of their dense construction and so are more suitable choices for very high traffic areas, including commercial floors. The thickness of the glaze will determine how well protected the tile is from spills and scratches. Similarly, a tile is only as strong as the quality of the surface onto which it’s laid. There really is no substitute for quality tiles and workmanship.
Porcelain tiles can really carry off the marble look, with both matt and glossy finishes available.
Glazed or polished tiles for floors and walls
Porcelain tiles can be glazed or polished, with either a matt or glossy finish. The glazing is an additional layer of liquid glass that is fired onto the tile after the pattern has been printed. It can be matt or gloss and helps waterproofing and to prevent staining. Quality counts, and cheap is not always cheerful. A poor-quality tile might still look good when new but will have a thinner glaze than a more premium one. The thinner the glaze, the more porous the tile will be and likely to absorb stains. You can of course purposely choose an unglazed tile and these are well suited to outdoor areas as they are naturally slip-resistant. They weather and mark over time, giving them an authentic, rustic feel that can suit both industrial and shabby chic décor styles.
These marble-effect black porcelain tiles have been polished to a lustrous sheen, giving a premium look (above left). The ceramic wall and floor tiles (above right) have a trendy matt glaze to seal and protect them.
Price comparison: porcelain tiles vs. ceramic tiles
Generally speaking, ceramic tiles are cheaper than porcelain, although you do get budget and premium ranges of both tiles. Given that porcelain is very popular at the moment and more premium, they do appeal to buyers and can boost to your home’s resale value, giving a return on the extra investment. Given that they are harder and more brittle than ceramic tiles, laying porcelain tiles is not a job for the novice DIYer and you’ll need to factor in the cost of having a professional do the tiling work.
While white or ivory subway tiles are still most popular, there are some lovely variations, such as this navy gloss ceramic subway (above left). A brick-effect porcelain subway will style well in traditional or industrial spaces (above right).
Summary: Comparison between ceramic and porcelain tiles
Ceramic
- Kiln-fired clay at a lower temperature than porcelain so ceramic tiles are softer and more porous.
- Ceramic tiles don’t weather extreme temperatures as well as porcelain.
- Ceramic tiles are easier to cut and shape and more suited to DIY tiling projects.
- When ceramic tiles chip, they expose the red clay underneath.
- Budget friendly tile choice: generally ceramic tiles are cheaper than porcelain tiles.
- Wide variety of ceramic tile styles and designs including wood-effect tiles.
- Suited to walls and floors indoors. Always check the product specifications to ensure your tile choice suits your intended purpose.
Porcelain
- Made from finer clay particles, porcelain is kiln-fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tiles.
- Tiles are harder and more dense so porcelain is more water resistant than ceramic.
- Porcelain tends to be brittle and may chip in handling.
- Professional tiling is advised as porcelain is more difficult to cut and shape than ceramic.
- Wide variety of styles and designs as well as polished or glazed finish options.
- Wood and marble-effect designs are very popular choices.
- Available in larger size formats than ceramic.
- The higher price tag of porcelain tiles is attractive to property buyers and so adds value at resale.
It’s always important to make sure that the tile you choose is recommended and rated for the use you are looking for. If you have online questions, email our knowledgeable Customer Service team at customerservice@worldoftiles.ie or contact your nearest store.
