Porcelain and ceramic are used most of the time interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Both porcelain and ceramic tiles come from clay, but they are not made of the same materials. Understanding the difference between porcelain and ceramic tiles can help you decide the best tile for different areas on your property.
In most cases, homeowners may have to choose ceramic tiles for indoor areas and porcelain tiles for outdoors in the regions that get wet often.
Differences Between Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles
There are several distinct differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles. Most of the differences are not visible because they are about the features of the tile.
Raw Material Composition
Ceramic tiles are made using white, red, or brown porous clay, baked at 1650 degrees Fahrenheit. Porcelain tiles are made using fine white clay mixed with feldspar and quartz baked at 2,200 to 2500 degrees Fahrenheit. Porcelain tiles absorb about 0.5% of water because they are denser and less porous than ceramic tiles.
The Cost Per Square Foot
Ceramic tiles are more affordable than porcelain tiles. The cost of ceramic tiles per square foot starts at $0.5 to $35, while the price of porcelain tiles begins at $3 to $35 per square foot. Ideally, you can use ceramic tiles for floors in low traffic areas, walls, and the interior of a property. Then use porcelain tiles in the kitchen, bathroom floors, laundry room, and outdoors to save on cost.
Procedures for Installation
Porcelain tiles require a professional to cut them during the flooring process because they are dense. Professionals use a wet tile saw or a snap time cutter to cut porcelain tiles into size during the installation process. Ceramic tiles are easier to cut with a wet tile saw because they are porous and absorb water. Homeowners can install ceramic tiles in a do-it-yourself Project. Professionals of flooring in St. George can handle the installation if you live in Utah.
Designs and Patterns
Porcelain tiles are available in different colors, designs, and patterns. Manufacturers of the tiles can make them look like natural materials such as marble, hardwood, and stone. Ceramic tiles are only available in plain colors, and they have limited designs and patterns.
Pros of Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are highly durable, and they are suitable for high-traffic areas like hotel lobbies, commercial spaces, retail stores, hospitals, public places, and outdoor areas. Moreover, the tiles offer various designs and patterns suitable for commercial and personal uses. They are also heat resistant, making them ideal for countertops. Because porcelain absorbs very little water, it’s perfect for rooms or areas that get in contact with water, including commercial laundry areas or public bathrooms.
Pros of Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are suitable for interior use, for example, in homes and spaces with low human traffic. They are durable and can last 75 to 100 years with the proper care and maintenance. Their affordability makes them attractive to homeowners considering tiles as a flooring option. Their lightness makes the tiles suitable as wall backdrops in the kitchen fireplace and bathroom.
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Let the Pros Handle It
It would be best to hire professional services such as flooring St. George to install tiles on your property. Flooring professionals use the best practices to ensure that your tiles last for decades with minimal maintenance and breakages.