Although both materials share similar properties, the differences between them are worth understanding. After all, when it comes to your home you want to make sure that the materials and decorative finishes you choose are the right ones. The areas where we typically use one or other such as the kitchen backsplash, bathroom and entrance hall floor will determine which material is most suited.
Through this article, we will clearly explain and illustrate the circumstances where one or the other is more appropriate. After reading, you’ll be ready to choose between ceramic vs porcelain tiles for your construction project.
Savannah Caliza 120×120 cm
Savannah Caliza Nature 120×270 cm
Both ceramic and porcelain tiles are made from fired clay. The differences between them include the type of clay, the pressure applied during the shaping of the tile body, and the firing temperature. Normally porcelain tiles are fired at between 1,200 – 1,450 °C while ceramic tiles are fired at slightly lower temperatures, between 1,162 – 1,200°C. The differential is important because it creates a denser, less porous tile in the case of porcelain.
It is the percentage of water absorption that determines the classification of the material between ceramic and porcelain. A ceramic tile with a water absorption of less than 0.5% is classified as porcelain. While clay tiles with a water absorption of greater than 0.5% are classified as ceramic. Clearly then, for some areas of the home with extra resistance requirements, porcelain is a superior material for walls and floors.
Dorcia Acero 120×120 cm
Delaware Natural 19.3/29.4×180 cm
Malaga Beige 25×44.3 cm
Through this article, we aim to clarify the differences between porcelain vs ceramic tiles. Some of the confusion comes from the terminology which can be off-putting. So, to help you get more familiar with what is what, we include a glossary of terminology.
Flooring for new builds or refurbishing projects represents a significant cost and adds hugely to the final result. Ceramic and porcelain floor tiles are popular choices in UK homes for a reason. They are attractive, budget-friendly, hard-wearing and easy to maintain. Nevertheless, there are significant differences between both and some situations where one or the other is more suitable. The following examples of floor tiles include specific recommendations and explanations as to why one is better than the other.
The outdoors is an unforgiving environment subject to differentials in temperature and inclement weather. Porcelain floor tiles are the best and only choice for external flooring applications. Porcelain is non-porous which means that water cannot penetrate and freeze leading to cracking and damage over time. Similarly, because porcelain is so dense it is less prone to cracking.
Don’t forget that in addition to choosing the right material for these outdoor areas, it is also important to choose a tile with the proper anti-slip rating.
Beyond residential interiors, porcelain tile is the preferred choice for high-traffic areas due to its exceptional durability and resistance. In environments such as shopping centres, public buildings, cultural venues, and transit hubs like airports, the robust nature of porcelain floor tiles consistently proves its value. These spaces demand flooring that can withstand continuous wear and tear while maintaining its aesthetic appeal, making porcelain tile an ideal solution for both functionality and longevity.
Cladding vertical surfaces with wall tiles adds character and a practical finish to walls and partitions around the home. Once again, porcelain wall tiles will be more appropriate than ceramic wall tiles in some situations. And vice versa. The following considerations will help inform your choice.
Internal walls in modern construction are generally made from plasterboard partitions. These structures have weight limits that determine the type of cladding materials they can support safely.
Porcelain wall tiles are heavier than their ceramic equivalent. Gypsum Plaster partitions can support 20 kg/sq.m. while 12.5 mm thick Gypsum Plasterboard can support 32 kg/sq.m. Don’t let the calculations daunt you— every tile option comes with this information as standard, written clearly on the packaging. Just remember to allow for 3 kg/sq.m. extra for grout and adhesive.
Ceramic and porcelain offer a surprising range of options for covering bathroom walls and protecting the building structure from water and moisture ingress. Even areas like shower enclosures and the tiling above a bathtub are protected by both materials.
Nevertheless, because we need to attach so many fixtures and fittings to bathroom walls we must think about drilling through wall tiles. Shower enclosures, towel rails, bathroom cabinets, shelving, etc. must be fixed to bathroom walls. Whereas ceramic tiles are relatively simple to drill through, porcelain tiles are not. You will need special drill bits because porcelain is a much denser and, therefore, harder material.
Porcelain tiles are an increasingly popular choice for cladding external buildings. If you look closely at these structures, you’ll see porcelain tiles covering entire façades.
Porcelain is almost indestructible and most importantly in the UK, it keeps the rain and moisture at bay. It is also chameleon-like and can take on many different effects. These same properties mean that porcelain is the go-to material for embellishing and protecting external walls of terraces outside the home.
Mombasa Prada White 45×120 cm
Prada White 45×120 cm
We have looked at detailed technical criteria and other common sensical criteria for choosing between ceramic vs porcelain tiles. In the end, however, you will be in a better position to make a final decision by seeing both in real life. So, we encourage you to make an appointment at your local Porcelanosa showroom where the professionals will answer any other queries. If you have any questions regarding the material examined here, please contact us through the comments section below.
