What is the Difference Between Porcelain and Ceramic Tile?
Porcelain is a type of tile that comes in many different styles. In fact, you can find tiles that look like wood grains, limestone, and even stone. They are also perfect for commercial applications, such as restrooms and saunas.
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Porcelain tile is a durable material that will stand up to heavy traffic. It is not recommended for use in kitchens or entryways, however. If you plan on using it for outdoor use, make sure you choose a product that can tolerate cold weather. Some porcelain products are even frost proof.
Porcelain tile is often pressed with extreme pressure, resulting in a dense, glass-like material. Because of this, it requires professional tools and skills to install properly. Despite its hardness, it is also very easy to maintain. Just a sweep or vacuum once a week and a cleaning with a porcelain-friendly cleanser once a month will keep it looking great.
Ceramic tile is made from red, white, or brown clay and is kiln-fired at a lower temperature than porcelain. Both products are durable, but porcelain is harder and more dense. This means it absorbs less water than ceramic, which makes it ideal for use in wet areas. The absorption rate is also lower, making it less likely to crack or chip. Generally, ceramic tiles are more affordable than porcelain.
Porcelain and ceramic tile are two excellent choices for your home. Although both materials are very popular, there are some important differences between them. These differences will help you determine which is best for your home.
When you are shopping for tile, be sure to check the packaging. The package will let you know if the new tiles are porcelain or ceramic. Unglazed porcelain will require more frequent cleaning. Also, make sure that the tiles are sized correctly. If the tiles are too small, they will be more difficult to install and more expensive to buy.
While both are good for your home, you might want to consider porcelain if you live in a cooler climate. Porcelain is much more resistant to freezing temperatures, and can be used in saunas and patios in colder climates. On the other hand, ceramic can crack in cold weather.
Ceramic tiles are a cheaper alternative to porcelain, but they are more porous and harder. You should not place unfinished porcelain tiles in wet areas. To prevent these issues, keep them in a level substrate, or purchase a special thin-set mortar that is modified with latex.
While both tile types are popular for interior projects, porcelain is more suitable for commercial applications. The hardness and density of porcelain allow it to stand up to heavy foot traffic. Additionally, it is more resistant to scratches, chips, and spills. A high density and glazed surface layer also make porcelain tiles nearly indistinguishable at first glance.
Porcelain is a specialized material that requires professional tools and expertise to install properly. Its high density and resistance to cracking make it a great choice for exterior applications, as well.