Picking the right tiles for your home be confusing with all the choices out there. A lot of folks often wonder about porcelain and ceramic tiles. They might look alike, but some key differences between them affect where and how you use them.
So, let's break it down and compare porcelain and ceramic tiles to help you figure out which one is best for your home.
Porcelain Tiles
Pros:
1. Impervious to Water
Porcelain tiles are great because they don't soak up water easily. This makes them handy for places that get wet a lot, like bathrooms or kitchens. Even porcelain tiles can be used in outside areas like patios because they won't get damaged by rain or snow. Plus, being so good with water means you're less likely to have issues with mold or mildew.
2. Industry Certification
Porcelain tiles usually come with certifications that show they're strong and durable. These certifications mean the tiles have met certain standards for things like toughness and how well they resist wear and tear. So when you see these certifications, you feel confident that the tiles will last a long time without wearing out.
3. Outdoor Use Allowed
Because porcelain tiles are tough and handle water well, they're great for outdoor areas. Whether you want to tile your patio, balcony, or even a garden path, these tiles handle the weather without getting damaged. Plus, they'll keep looking good for a long time.
Cons:
1. More Brittle
Even though porcelain tiles are tough, they are a bit more fragile than ceramic tiles. They might chip or crack if something heavy falls on them or if there's a lot of pressure. But if they're installed correctly and you take care of them, this risk is pretty low.
2. More Expensive
Porcelain tiles usually cost more than ceramic tiles. This is because they're made to be strong and last a long time. So, even though you might pay more when you first buy them, they often save you money in the long run because they last longer and need less replacing.
3. Fewer Certified Products
While porcelain tiles are really good, there aren't as many different kinds that come with industry certifications compared to ceramic tiles. This means you might have to search a bit more to find the exact porcelain tile you're looking for.
Ceramic Tiles
Pros:
1. Affordability
Ceramic tiles usually cost less than porcelain tiles, which is great if you're watching your budget. Even though they're cheaper, you still find ceramic tiles in lots of different styles and colors to fit your home's look.
2. Ease of Installation
Ceramic tiles are easier to work with because they're less hard and lightweight than porcelain tiles. This means it's simpler for professionals to cut and install them, which saves you some cash on installation fees. Plus, the job gets done faster, so you enjoy your new tiles sooner!
Cons:
1. Limited Outdoor Use
Ceramic tiles aren't as good with water as porcelain. They soak up water if they're outside or in wet areas, which causes them to crack or wear out faster. So, it's best to keep them inside so they won't get too wet.
2. Prone to Staining
Ceramic tiles soak up water and stains more easily than porcelain tiles. Because of this, they might get stained or change color over time. You might need to clean and take care of them more often to keep them looking nice.
Conclusion
Choosing between porcelain and ceramic tiles comes down to what you need and what you spend. Porcelain tiles are tough and handle water well, so they're good for outdoor areas or places that get wet a lot. On the other hand, ceramic tiles are cheaper and work well indoors.
Think about what matters most to you, like how durable the tiles need to be or if you need them to be water-resistant. Also, check if they have any certifications that show they meet certain quality standards. With the right tiles, you make your space look great and last for years within your budget!
Tile & Sanitaryware Manufacturer
Sunwin Ceramic is a renowned manufacturer of tiles and sanitaryware, recognized for its high-quality products & innovative designs. With a strong presence in the industry, we established ourselves as a leading brand, offering a wide range of ceramic & porcelain tiles and sanitaryware solutions.
