You may be in the process of changing out your tiles and asking yourself what’s the difference between porcelain and ceramic tiles? Maybe you think they’re pretty much the same thing, so it doesn’t really matter one way or the other. If this sounds like you, you might be surprised to know there are actual differences between porcelain and ceramic tile and choosing one over the other may make all the difference.
At St. Louis Tile, our design experts can help you choose the right tile for the area you’re remodeling – we want you to love it for years to come! Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of porcelain versus ceramic tile.
Benefits of Porcelain Tile
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Low maintenance
- Less porous than ceramic tiles
- More dense and heavier
- Highly durable (resists chipping and cracking)
- Great for high-traffic areas like kitchens, entryways, pool decks
- Water-resistance rates of 99.97% for quality porcelain tile
Benefits of Ceramic Tile
- Great for indoor use (floors, walls, backsplashes, bathrooms)
- When sealed, provides improved water and mold-resistance (tile and grout)
- Endless design options due to more flexible installation
- Easy to cut, install, and mix and match patterns
- Reasonable installation rates of $5 to $10 square foot
- Easier to cut than porcelain tiles
- Lighter than porcelain tiles (could be a plus, depending on your project)
- Water-resistance rates of 97% for quality ceramic tile
How Do You Choose Between Ceramic & Porcelain?
Depending upon what room and where you plan to tile, as well as your budget, choosing between ceramic and porcelain isn’t quite as clear-cut as you may have hoped.
Typically, if you’re tiling a high traffic area or one that sees a lot of moisture like a shower, bathroom floor, laundry room, patio, or entry way, porcelain is your best bet. Though it costs a bit more, it will be less prone to wear and more resistant to little chips and stains than it’s fellow ceramic tile.
If you’re going for an earthy or rustic feel, shapes, patterns, backsplashes, and intricate layout designs (think inlays, old-world charm, large areas with large tile) ceramic may be a better option. It is virtually kiln-fired clay, so it is a bit softer and easier to cut and install, but still offers water-resistance and durability.
Don’t Worry – Our Designers Will Help You Choose
Despite some obvious differences, choosing the proper tile for your space usually comes down to where it’s going to be installed and ultimately, what tile you fall in love with – the one that speaks to you and makes you feel a certain way.
The tile experts at St. Louis Tile, in Ellisville, are here to help you choose between your favorites and may steer you in one direction or the other based on where your tile will be laid. We’re here to make life easier for every remodel, large or small, or somewhere in between.
Make an Appointment or Drop by Our Showroom
At St. Louis Tile, you’ll find better quality and more choices. Let us wow you with outstanding customer service and win you over with our vast in-stock selection, competitive pricing, and free consultations. Our showroom is one of a kind – we can’t wait for you to see it! You’ll be inspired.
Open 7 Days a Week
To know us is to love us! Feel free to drop in – we’re open 7 days a week with extended hours (M-F 7:00-9:00, S & S ‘til 6:00) – or make an appointment if you’re on a schedule. We’re here to help interior designers, contractors, homeowners, and anyone on a mission to install indoor or outdoor tile. 636-220-3550
