What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic tiles?

Although some people interchange the terms ‘porcelain’ and ‘ceramic’ when describing tiles, they are actually two different things and due to their makeup, and in certain circumstances, particularly in the UK, one might be more appropriate for a project than another.

Find out here how they differ to make sure you choose the right product for your project.

Porcelain Tiles

Ceramic Tiles

How are ceramic tiles made?

Ceramic tiles are made using natural red, brown or white clay. The clay is fired at a high temperature to reduce the water content. Afterwards a glaze is added. Finally the pattern is applied.

How are porcelain tiles made?

Porcelain tiles are made with a specific, refined white clay, to which finely-ground sand and feldspar are added. The tiles are then fired at a higher temperature and pressure than ceramic tiles, making porcelain tiles much more hardwearing.

The main difference between porcelain and clay tiles is the rate at which they will absorb water. The denser clay used to make porcelain tiles makes them less porous, (porcelain tiles absorb less than 0.5% of water) whilst ceramic and other non-porcelain tiles absorb more.

Density & Durability

Porcelain tiles are denser than ceramic, and less porous. This makes them harder, & more durable. They are very suited to high footfall areas which will see heavy use, and wet areas. However, ceramic tiles can still have their place.  Being less brittle they are a great product for DIY-ers, as they’re more forgiving to work with.  Ceramic tiles are also usually cheaper to buy than porcelain tiles, but they are not as durable.

PEI Ratings

PEI ratings will advise you if your chosen tile is suitable for your planned project. Tiles are graded from 0-5 depending on the hardness of the tile:

Most ceramic floor tiles are graded between 3 and 4. Porcelain tiles tend to have a rating between 3 and 5.

High foot traffic

The durability of porcelain tiles make them perfect for high traffic areas as they’re resistant to scratches and scuffs. Whether in an area of the home that sees high footfall, such as the hallway or kitchen, or in a commercial space, porcelain is the most hardwearing.

Wet Areas

As porcelain is nearly waterproof, porcelain tiles are the best material to use when installing a wet room due to the levels of moisture. They can also be made slip proof making them a good choice around a pool area.

Outdoors

As porcelain tiles are virtually non-porous they are suitable for using outdoors and will withstand UK winter weather conditions. Ceramic tiles are not frost proof and may crack.

Design

The latest designs available in Porcelain are a far cry from what was previously available.  It is now possible to buy tiles that are very realistic copies of natural materials such as wood, marble and stone.  These new porcelain styles offer the customer a lightweight, low maintenance alternative to the real thing, at a very competitive price.

Please call us on 01844 279274 or email us at sales@stoneworld.co.uk for any further advice you require.  Our knowledgeable staff are always on hand for tips and advice. Alternatively, you can fill in the enquiry form below and one of our team will be in touch shortly.