Ceramic vs Porcelain Tiles. What's the Difference?

Choosing the right tile for your home or commercial space can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when deciding between ceramic and porcelain tiles. Both are popular choices, but understanding their differences is crucial for making the best decision based on durability, cost, application, and aesthetics.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about ceramic and porcelain tiles, including their composition, manufacturing process, pros and cons, cost considerations, and practical applications. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which tile type is the best fit for your project.

Ceramic flooring

What is ceramic tile?

Ceramic tiles are made from a mixture of natural clay, sand, and water. The material is shaped into tiles, dried, and then fired in a kiln at high temperatures. Depending on the design, ceramic tiles may be glazed or left unglazed, with glazed tiles featuring an additional protective layer that enhances durability and aesthetics.

Manufacturing process of ceramic tiles

The production of ceramic tiles involves several steps:

Raw material preparation: Clay and other materials are mixed and refined.
Shaping: The mixture is moulded into tile shapes.
Drying: The tiles are dried to remove excess moisture.
Firing: The tiles are fired at temperatures between 980–1,100°C.
Glazing (optional): A protective and decorative glaze is applied before a second firing.

Advantages of ceramic tiles

Affordable: Ceramic tiles are generally more budget-friendly compared to porcelain.

Versatile designs: Available in a wide range of colours, patterns, and styles.

Easy to cut and install: Can be cut with a standard tile cutter, making DIY installations easier.

Low maintenance: Regular sweeping and mopping are sufficient for upkeep.

Disadvantages of ceramic tiles

Less durable: More prone to chipping and cracking compared to porcelain.

Higher water absorption: Not ideal for extremely wet areas as they absorb more moisture.

Limited outdoor use: Susceptible to damage in freezing conditions.

Price range of ceramic tiles

Ceramic tile prices vary based on quality, size, and design, ranging from $10 to $50 per square metre.

Lifespan of ceramic tiles

With proper maintenance, ceramic tiles can last 20 to 50 years, depending on wear and tear.

Cleaning and maintenance of ceramic bathroom tiles

Daily cleaning: Sweep or vacuum to remove dirt.

Mopping: Use mild detergents to clean the surface.

Avoid harsh chemicals: Acidic cleaners can damage the glaze.

Cleaning Gear Mopping A Living Room Floor With Tile

Porcelain flooring

What is porcelain tile?

Porcelain tiles are a subtype of ceramic tiles but are made from a more refined clay and fired at higher temperatures. This results in a denser, less porous, and more durable tile, making it ideal for high-traffic and wet areas.

Manufacturing process of porcelain tiles

Porcelain tiles undergo a process similar to ceramic tiles but with key differences:

Fine clay mixture: Composed of finer and denser clay.
Higher temperature firing: Fired at temperatures above 1,200°C.
Full-Body composition: Some porcelain tiles have colour throughout, reducing visible wear.

Advantages of porcelain tiles

Highly durable: More resistant to wear and tear.

Low water absorption: Ideal for wet areas and outdoor applications.

Scratch and stain resistant: Suitable for high-traffic areas.

Weather resistant: Can withstand freeze-thaw conditions.

Disadvantages of porcelain tiles

Higher cost: More expensive than ceramic tiles.

Difficult to cut: Requires specialized tools for cutting and installation.

Heavy weight: Can be more challenging to install.

Cost of quality porcelain tiles

Porcelain tiles typically range from $20 to $100 per square metre, depending on quality and design.

Lifespan of porcelain tiles

Porcelain tiles can last 50+ years with proper maintenance, making them a long-term investment.

Cleaning and maintenance of porcelain tiles

Regular cleaning: Sweep and mop with mild detergents.

Use a soft mop: Avoid abrasive scrubbers.

No sealing required: Unlike natural stone, most porcelain tiles do not need sealing.

Strength and durability comparison

Porcelain Enamel Institute Rating (PEI rating)

The PEI rating is a standardized classification system that measures the durability and wear resistance of tiles based on their intended use. It is especially important for homeowners and businesses selecting tiles for specific environments. The rating ranges from PEI 1 to PEI 5, with PEI 1 being suitable for walls or light foot traffic areas, while PEI 5 is ideal for heavy commercial use, such as malls and airports. Porcelain tiles typically score PEI 4-5, making them highly durable and resistant to wear, while ceramic tiles fall in the PEI 2-4 range, meaning they are better suited for residential and low-traffic areas. Understanding the PEI rating helps in making an informed decision about tile placement and longevity.

Practical considerations and applications

Residential vs. Commercial use

Ceramic Tiles: Best for low-traffic residential areas.

Porcelain Tiles: Ideal for commercial and high-traffic spaces.

Indoor vs. Outdoor use

Ceramic: Better for indoor applications.

Porcelain: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces due to weather resistance.

High-Traffic areas

Porcelain tiles are better suited for areas with heavy foot traffic due to their superior durability.

Wet areas

Porcelain tiles have lower water absorption, making them ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor settings.

Financial considerations

Long-term value and investment

Porcelain tiles have a higher upfront cost but offer better durability and lower maintenance costs over time.

Return on investment (ROI) in home renovations

Porcelain tiles can add more value to a home, making them a better choice for long-term ROI.

Aesthetic considerations: Ceramic or porcelain tiles

Colour options and patterns

Both tile types offer a wide variety of colours and designs, but porcelain can better mimic natural stone or wood. Ceramic tiles often come in vibrant colours and intricate patterns, making them ideal for decorative applications. Porcelain, on the other hand, is designed to replicate the look of high-end materials like marble, granite, and wood while offering superior durability. Additionally, advancements in digital printing technology have allowed both ceramic and porcelain tiles to feature highly realistic textures and patterns, making floor tile design options more versatile.

Textures and finishes

Porcelain tiles often have a broader range of finishes, including matte, polished, and textured. Matte finishes provide a soft, understated look with slip-resistant properties, making them ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. Polished finishes offer a high-gloss, luxurious appearance, enhancing the brightness of a space but requiring more maintenance to keep them free from smudges and water spots. Textured finishes, such as stone-look or wood-look surfaces, add depth and realism, making them popular choices for outdoor areas or spaces aiming for a natural aesthetic.

Suitability for various interior styles

Modern and Contemporary: Porcelain tiles for sleek, high-end looks.

Traditional and Rustic: Ceramic tiles for warm and classic aesthetics.

Our verdict: Choosing the right tile for your space

Selecting between ceramic and porcelain tiles depends on your specific needs, budget, and application.

If you need an affordable and versatile tile for low-traffic areas, ceramic tiles are a great choice. Their budget-friendly price and diverse design options make them a preferred choice for decorative applications and low-maintenance interiors. However, if durability, moisture resistance, and longevity are priorities, porcelain tiles are the better investment. Their higher density, lower water absorption, and superior wear resistance make them ideal for high-traffic areas and outdoor use. Considering long-term maintenance, application, and budget will help determine the right tile for your project.

FAQs | Ceramic vs Porcelain Tiles

Is porcelain tile more expensive than ceramic?

Yes, porcelain tiles generally cost more due to their durability and manufacturing process.

Are ceramic and porcelain the same?

No, porcelain tiles are denser, more durable, and have lower water absorption than ceramic tiles.

How do you tell the Difference between porcelain and ceramic tile?

Porcelain tiles have a finer texture and lower water absorption. You can also check the unglazed side for colour consistency.

Are ceramic tiles easy to cut?

Yes, they are easier to cut than porcelain, making DIY installation more feasible.

Do porcelain tiles crack easily?

No, porcelain tiles are more resistant to cracking due to their density and durability.

Is ceramic tile outdated?

No, ceramic tiles remain a popular choice for many home and commercial applications due to their affordability.