Feature | Porcelain Tile | Ceramic Tile |
Durability | Highly durable and built to withstand heavy use | Strong and dependable for everyday indoor use |
Water Resistance | Low water absorption; ideal for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, outdoors | More porous; best suited for dry, indoor areas |
Density | Very dense due to high-temperature firing | Less dense, more lightweight |
Temperature Resistance | Excellent for extreme temperature changes; suitable for outdoor use | Handles moderate temperature changes; best for stable indoor climates |
Design Options | Mimics stone, wood, fabric textures; wide range of colours and finishes | Wide range of textures, colours, and patterns for decorative interiors |
Ease of Installation | Requires special tools and professionals due to their hardness | Easier to cut, shape, and install (DIY-friendly) |
Maintenance | Low-maintenance; resists stains and scratches | Easy to clean; needs a bit more care in damp zones for lasting beauty |
Repair | Harder and costlier to replace or repair | Easier to repair or replace individual tiles |
Cost | More expensive upfront, but cost-effective over time due to longevity | More budget-friendly and accessible without compromising on style |
Lifespan | Excellent for high-use and high-impact areas | Long-lasting in indoor settings with regular care |
Best For | Bathrooms, kitchens, hallways, outdoors, commercial spaces | Bedrooms, walls, backsplashes, decorative indoor flooring |
This will depend on where and how the tiles are being used. Ceramic tiles are a great fit for low-traffic indoor areas. They're affordable and easy to install. Also, they come in a wide range of trendy designs, suited for modern spaces. These qualities make them perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and wall applications. Porcelain tiles are more durable and water-resistant. They are better suited for high-moisture or high-traffic zones like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas.
Porcelain tiles are typically more expensive than ceramic tiles. This is because they’re made with denser, refined clay and fired at higher temperatures. Where as ceramic are more affordable and comes in variety of designs.
Porcelain tiles can be slippery, especially if they have a polished or glossy finish. However, you can get matte finish porcelain tiles that provide better grip.
When it comes to strength, porcelain tiles are considered the strongest among commonly used tiles. Their dense composition, high firing temperatures, and low water absorption make them highly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heavy foot traffic. That said, ceramic tiles can also be quite durable when used correctly. With proper installation and care, ceramic tiles can last for years in residential settings, especially in low to moderate-traffic zones.