It’s a common question among TriFection clients when considering tile selections for a kitchen backsplash, flooring, bathtub or shower surrounds – what’s the difference between porcelain and ceramic tile? The answer is surprising.
Mythbusting porcelain and ceramic tile differences
The fact is, porcelain and ceramic tiles are not different kinds of tile. More plainly, porcelain is just a form of ceramic tile. They’re both made from clay, water and additives.
Both ceramic and porcelain tile are manufactured the same way – they’re both fired in a kiln heated to between 2,000 and 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit to remove water and harden the clay.
While the traditional European definition of porcelain and ceramic tile is based on the color of the clay, the typical American definition simply refers to perceived quality. Porcelain to European manufacturers means use of a lighter colored clay. American manufacturers, on the other hand, might include higher-quality tiles made from red, tan, white, or brown clays in the porcelain category.
Despite efforts to enact international standards for porcelain and ceramic tile definitions, use of the word “porcelain” is left to the discrepancy of the tile manufacturer.
The most common myth of all about porcelain tile is that it always has the same color and pattern all the way through the tile. Customers often believe this means future chips or scratches in the tile will not be visible. The fact is, this is true on a very small percentage of tiles designated as porcelain. Like ceramics, most porcelains are glazed with a coating that provides the tile’s outer color and texture; if the glaze is chipped deeply enough, the inner tile body will show (although some chips will be more noticeable than others, depending on the color of the clay).
Porcelain and ceramic tile advice
- Find the color, pattern and price point you like; don’t worry about ceramic vs. porcelain designation
- Evaluate the tile’s usefulness for your application by reading the box
- Review the tile’s rating for visible imperfections, wear resistance, water penetration, slippage and other factors
- Remember the tile’s rating only determines its best application; it’s not necessarily a measure of good or bad tile
Our best advice for choosing between porcelain and ceramic tile is to ignore the distinction. Instead, focus on size, pattern, color, price and rating consistent with use. You can depend on TriFection’s design and selections team to help you choose the best tile to fit your specific needs and avoid unwanted surprises.
