When it comes to installing tiles, a lot of us are confused among so many popular options available in the market. The confusion often arises when the choice is between porcelain and ceramic tiles. Porcelain is a type of a dense and durable ceramic tile which does not absorb water or other types of liquids. Hence the main difference between the two is related to strength. If you wish to make a choice based on facts then you have landed on the right page. The following is a detailed comparison between porcelain vs. ceramic tiles and will help you make your decision.
1. Material they are made of
Porcelain: Porcelain tiles are made up of white clay. These are more pure and definitely more refined.
Ceramic: Ceramic tiles are made up of red, brown or white porous clay. Ceramic tiles are less refined and pure as compared to their porcelain counterparts.
2. Color and appearance
Porcelain: As far as appearance and color is concerned, these tiles are baked throughout. They have a certain glaze on top.
Ceramic: When it comes to the color, ceramic tiles are baked onto the top. The designs found on top of ceramic tiles are just printed and covered with glass-based glaze.
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3. Uses and benefits
Porcelain: Porcelain tiles are more durable and stain resistant and can be used both indoors and outdoors. They are used for floorings and other similar high traffic areas because they have more strength.
Ceramic: Ceramic tiles are better for and often used in art mosaics, kitchen backsplashes, walls and countertops. These tiles are more ideal to be used indoors because extreme weather conditions can make them crack and make them weak.
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4. Durability and strength
Porcelain:It is a fact that porcelain tiles are more durable than ceramic tiles.This is because they do not absorb water easily and ceramic ones do. Porcelain tiles are immune to ice, rain, liquid spills and other stains which might cause damage, unlike ceramic tiles.
Ceramic: As mentioned above, ceramic tiles do not match the durability and strength of porcelain tiles and are often easily damaged due to water and stains. This is why they are not recommended for exterior use,.
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5. Installation comparison
Another point on which you can draw the comparison of porcelain vs. ceramic tiles is installation. Both of these tile varieties are quite delicate and difficult to handle during the installation process.
Porcelain: Porcelain tiles are hard and brittle. They are thus more prone to cracking when handling during DIY projects. It is thus recommended that they are installed through professionals.
Ceramic: Ceramic is not a very thick material and this means that they are easier to cut. But at the same time they may easily chip off as well
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6. Cost
Finally, we need to discuss the cost of both the tiles as this can be a deciding factor during purchasing. Neither of these tiles is very expensive to purchase for countertop or flooring installation.
Porcelain: Porcelain tiles cost a little more than ceramic tiles, depending upon the variety and quality.
Ceramic: Both are priced according to tile density but ceramic may be slightly cheaper.
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Now that you know the comparison between porcelain vs. ceramic tiles, you can make your decision regarding purchasing them easily. If you wish to get any of them installed using professional help, you can contact Mr Right for installation services.
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