The Difference Between ceramic Tile and Porcelain Tile

The first decision you should make when installing tiles in your home is choosing between ceramic and porcelain tile. The biggest difference between ceramic and porcelain tile starts with their composition, which not only determines a tile's color and texture, but its density, durability and uses. Though choosing a type of tile seems daunting at first, understanding these differences will make finding the type of tile that best suits your needs much less overwhelming. 

Ceramic Composition and Processing

Ceramic is made mostly of red or white clay mixed with various minerals and water and is fired in a kiln to solidify. Because ceramic is porous, or more likely to absorb water, the top surface of ceramic tile is usually sealed with a glaze, creating a design layer that determines the tile's finished color, design and texture.

Porcelain Composition and Processing

Porcelain is made mostly of finely ground sand and highly refined and purified clays and is processed at a temperature much higher than that of ceramic. The finished product is a glass-like tile that is denser and, with a water absorption rate of 0.5 percent, less porous than ceramic tile. Porcelain tile is sometimes glazed for extra durability, though glazing is not always necessary.

Durability

Glazed ceramic tile is not only durable and long-lasting but is one of the easiest surfaces to clean and does not absorb odors, allergens or bacteria. However, ceramic tile has a high water absorption rate, making it less stain- and frost-resistant, while porcelain tile has a low water absorption rate, so it is less likely to absorb moisture and is more stain- and frost-resistant. Porcelain tile is also more durable than ceramic tile, as porcelain tile's higher density makes it more resistant to wear, chipping and other damage than ceramic tile.

Suitability

Ceramic tile is best suited for indoor walls and floors with light to moderate traffic, as it is more susceptible to wear, chipping and cracking. Porcelain tile is suitable for both indoor and outdoor areas with light to heavy traffic due to its higher density and durability. However, because of its hardness and high density, porcelain tile is harder to cut and shape during installation.

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