Porcelain & Ceramic Tile Differences

Porcelain & Ceramic Tile Differences

Although both kind of tiles are made of ceramic, there are small differences between the porcelain and ceramic ones. Porcelain tiles have a much higher density, thus offering a higher grade of durability, which makes them perfect for high-traffic areas. Ceramic tiles are cheaper and easier to cut into different shapes and sizes.

The choice between porcelain and ceramic comes down to design, functionality and personal preferences. Depending on these choices, there are a number of different options that may fit the bill.

Choosing tile features

Texture: The pattern styles on tiles can include wood, stone, metal or fabric. The majority of these are achieved by pressing a pattern into the ceramic itself, a process called transfer printing.

Through glazing, metal patterns are formed by adding a metallic luster to the final firing process. While unglazed tiles have the color of the ceramic itself, glazed tiles can add certain levels of reflection and a variety of colors to the room.

Tile edge styles can also have an impact on the design of your room or wall. A certain manufacturing process ensures that rectified tiles are all cut to the exact shape and size, thus making it possible to cleanly lay them out with ease.

Non-rectified tiles are produced with small variations in size. While rectified tiles offer a more modern look, standard ones may have a more natural or rustic feel.

Size and shape: There are a number of options you can choose from when it comes to tile sizing. Rectangular tiles can vary from subway tiles for your bathroom or faux bois flooring. Square tiles are specific to entranceways and sunrooms, while interlocking tiles are commonly used on decks.

Mosaic tile is cut into small pieces and placed close together according to a previously prepared pattern. Mosaic tiles are provided on a mesh backing, making it easier to lay them out and achieve the desired effect.

To the back of the mosaic tiles, a fiber mesh resin is attached in such a way that a portion of the back of each tile is exposed to the bond coat.  These tiles can be made from a variety of materials, such as ceramic, pebbles, glass, each offering a unique beautiful glaze that can match your design schemes.

Look and feel: Most handmade tiles, like the Saltillo tile, are often unglazed and appear in a range of tones of red, as a result of being made with quarried clay no a wooden frame, or pressed to fit a mold.

Saltillo tiles are highly porous, which means that, without a glaze, it should not be used in areas with high humidity.

With such a variety of ceramic and porcelain tiles available, you can make the right decision and pick a style that will suit your preferences on the long run.

Subway tiles are usually the choice for bathrooms and hallways because of its durability and the fact that it’s a great backdrop for design.

Other tiles are easier to clean, such as the Kaska Ceramic Tile’s Gator Series, making it a good choice for businesses and homes. Other options, such as the Base Metal Series porcelain which looks like a metal tile, ensure that you can keep to a certain budget.