Sales assistants claim that they’re poles apart but is it to merely justify the supposed stature and price of porcelain? Let’s find out:
The fundamental difference between the two is the rate of water absorption. Porcelain tiles are known to absorb less than 0.5% of water. Since it is more impervious to water and stains, porcelain is preferred over ceramic.
Ceramic tiles are made by using natural red, white or brown clay. It is fired at a soaring temperature of 1000-1050 degree Celsius to minimize the water content, followed by the process of glazing where different patterns are embosomed onto the tile and Preso! Your product is ready. Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, are made using a specific clay with feldspar and finely ground sand added to the concoction. Since they are fired at a much higher temperature, porcelain tiles are impressively sturdy. They are more porous and dense.
Now regarding where it is applied, both porcelain and ceramic tiles are not used outdoors. Neither of these tiles should be exposed to the elements because they can easily succumb to the deleterious conditions of the weather like rain or snow. Owing to their property of absorbing water, porcelain and ceramic are likely to crack in cold climates.
Among all tiles, porcelain is said to have the longest lifespan. There are very few tiles in the market that can last as long as porcelain. Its hard and robust, which means that it is highly resilient to damage. Porcelain is the most fitting option for those on the lookout for sturdy tiles. However, with either case, it’s best to call in the cavalry for setting the tiles like Carreaux Metro ceramiques porcelaine who have perfected their craft for over 40 years!
Boiling down to the costs, porcelain is a lot more complex to work with and is relatively more time-consuming. No wonder, porcelain is significantly more expensive. Infact, it’s one of the most exuberantly priced tiles in the market.
Porcelain is also higher up the scale in terms of density. This can prove to be a shortcoming if you prefer to work with lightweight materials instead. Heavy flooring can be challenging as one requires proper reinforcements. Porcelain tile is also more brittle and calls for professional cutting by an experienced worker, as opposed to ceramic which can be done on your own.
However, ceramic wins hands down in the department of variety.