Unglazed, or full-bodied, tiles have color running through the entire thickness as opposed to a glaze placed on the top , making them longer lasting and more resistant to chipping. Known as the most durable type of tile on the market, porcelain is harder, denser, tougher, and less porous than ceramic tile. This characteristic makes it an ideal choice for bathrooms, laundry rooms, patios, and other moisture-prone areas.
Since porcelain tile can withstand heavy traffic over long periods of time, it works well as a flooring and countertop material. Despite its durability and versatility, porcelain has two major drawbacks: price and ease of cutting. On average, porcelain tile costs at least 60 percent more than its ceramic competitors. Also, due to its density and hardness, homeowners typically require a wet saw with a diamond blade to cut cleanly through the material.
Professional installation is preferred for a flawless finish with undamaged tiles. Sweep and vacuum porcelain tile once or twice per week, depending on how much traffic it experiences.
Once a month, use a vinegar-and-water solution or tile-friendly commercial cleanser to banish dirt and day-to-day build-up.
If you have glazed tile, use a mop. If you have unglazed or textured tile, rely on scrub with a soft-bristle brush instead. Ceramic vs. Home » Resources » Ceramic vs. What Is Ceramic Tile? What Is Porcelain Tile? The difference is in the body. Both can have a ceramic glaze, the difference is in the body. For safety in wet areas or in flooring applications where accessibility is a concern, look for a tile, whether porcelain or ceramic, with a high coefficient of friction. This property is measured on a point scale, with 10 being the most slip-resistant.
In general, honed finishes offer more traction than glossy surfaces, which also have a tendency to show finger- and footprints. If you've decided on using porcelain tile, it's best to choose one that has "through body color" for the highest quality. Some tiles have only a ceramic glaze fired over the body, and if chipped, the white-, tan-, or red-clay base is exposed. However, certain factors make installing porcelain tile a more difficult DIY project. Its density and hardness require a wet saw with a porcelain diamond blade.
For large-format porcelain tiles, a level substrate is needed to reduce lippage, or variations in height. And if you're worried about the tile feeling cold underfoot, consider installing radiant or hydronic heating coils underneath for extra warmth.
Porcelain tile's payoff of lasting beauty is well worth the extra installation requirements. Porcelain vs. By Jessica Bennett Updated October 14, Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Save Pin FB More. The water absorption rate of porcelain tile makes it suitable for interior and exterior application in all climates. Porcelain tiles are considered to be the toughest flooring options available on the market. With that, the period cost of replacement and removal can be eliminated. Through this, the glazed surface would be thoroughly maintained and would last for a couple of years.
Just like what has been mentioned earlier, this type of material is highly resistant to cracking, as well as breakage caused by physical impacts. You can easily replace or remove the damaged tile. One of the drawbacks of using porcelain tiles is the fact that they can be a little expensive, and most of the time, the materials out pace most of the standard ceramic options.
However, the good thing about porcelain tiles is that it could last for several decades, making it a good investment overall. Compare costs, check out styles, and look at the differences of many different tiles at our supplier, VirginiaTile.
Just like with other types of hard tile flooring, even porcelain tiles have the tendency of being a little heavier. This makes the installation process a little more cumbersome.
The process of installing porcelain tiles is time consuming, difficult, and could also be quite laborious. Since porcelains are very heavy, but quite sturdy, it can be challenging to get precise cuts needed for architectural buildings. With that, the retailers have the freedom of describing the tiles they offer any way they like.
As for buyers, this makes it a little difficult to decide which tile to purchase and the characteristics it has. Although porcelains are almost water proof and resistant to damage, stain, and water penetration, you ought to know that the lines between the tiles are sill a little vulnerable.
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