Porcelain Tile vs. Ceramic Tile

Debating on a porcelain tile vs. ceramic tile issue is like arguing on whether the egg came first before the chicken or otherwise. Each of the side will have some pretty good points. The truth is, no one could really tell the exact answer. Whichever you choose between the two, you will still have a classy and beautiful room. These two are considered the most beautiful and elegant floor coverings and both will surely add beauty and class to your homes. Both are popular for the unmatched sophistication they bring to a home. No wonder, people find themselves confused in choosing between the two. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are not really different though. As a matter of fact, porcelain tiles are just special and unique ceramics, but it is made out of a more refined material and is produced in a different manufacturing process. Porcelain tiles are fired at a higher temperature than ceramic tiles, which makes it sturdier and stronger than the latter.

Ceramic tiles are primarily made up of red or white clays, glass substances, quartziferous sand, and other minerals, which are mixed with water and cooked at a very high temperature in a kiln. They are finished with a durable, tough and naturally beautiful glaze, which carries various colors and patterns. Ceramic tiles are softer and easier to cut than porcelain. Moreover, ceramic tiles come in two types of surfaces, glazed and unglazed. The glazed surfaced tile is the best material for walls, since they are too slippery and a little more vulnerable than the unglazed tiles. Ceramic tiles only require minimum maintenance and are highly resistant to heat, which makes it a popular choice among safety-conscious homeowners.

Porcelain tiles have higher density and are less likely to absorb moisture. It absorbs less than any other material for countertops. They are also more frost-resistant, making them more perfect for outdoors, as well as in cold places where freezing is a natural event. Full body porcelain tiles come in a huge variety of colors and patterns throughout the tile, making it less likely to be worn out immediately. Although they are slightly expensive, they are sturdier and stronger than ordinary ceramic tiles, making you get back more of your investment. Porcelain tiles are becoming the new favorite of meticulous homeowners because of its sleek, modern look, low maintenance, stain resistance, low absorption rate, its being frost-resistant and its versatility. It also has a wondrous beauty that can make it resemble a natural stone. Unlike ceramic tiles, which are being applied with glaze only at its base, porcelain has the glaze blended with the clay upon the production of the tile.

However, before taking sides in the porcelain tile vs. ceramic tile war, you may need to understand that both types of tiles will endure comparably, so long as they have the same PEI rating, which determines the scratch and chip resistant capability of the tile.

Weigh in all your options and choose wisely which side you will favor in the porcelain tile vs. ceramic tile feud. Review each of their benefits and disadvantages first before choosing one of them for your kitchen countertop.