Porcelain Tile vs Ceramic Tile

What’s is the difference between Porcelain Tile and Ceramic Tile? This is a common question among people who are shopping for tile in Jupiter, Fl.

At The Stone Quarry of Jupiter we have a wide assortment of both types of tile. Each has it’s uses, which we will discuss.

In this article we’ll also take a look at:

Similarities Between Porcelain Tile and Ceramic Tile
Differences Between Porcelain Tile and Ceramic Tile
Best uses of Porcelain Tile
Best uses of Ceramic Tile

Common Characteristics

CLAY – The key ingredient in both products is clay.
KILN FIRED – Both are fired at high temperatures in a kiln (an oven for ceramics).

Distinct Differences

CLAY – While both are made with clay. The type of clay used in each is different. Porcelain clay tends to be denser and less porous than ceramic clay.
KILN FIRED – Again the similarity is also the difference. In this case, the “tile bakers” turn the heat up a notch when baking porcelain.

Show How Much You Know

All tile can be used on floors and walls. True/False
Porcelain Tile costs less than Ceramic Tile. True/False
Exterior decks and patios are perfect for porcelain tile. True/False
Tile is easier to clean than wood or natural stone. True/False
All tile can be considered ceramic tile. True/False

Answer key below

Porcelain Tile Specifications

In order to be called a Porcelain Tile, the tile must pass a few tests. The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association in conjunction with the Tile Council of North America launched a certification program in 2007.

One of the key tests is based on how much water the tile absorbs. The tile must absorb .5% or less in order to be classified as a porcelain tile.

To read more about the specifications go here: https://www.tcnatile.com/porcelain.html

Tile Knowledge Answer Key

False. Do not use Wall Tile on floors. Wall tile is generally softer and more likely to break if subjected to the abuse that floor tile can withstand. But floor tile can be used on walls with no problems.
False. Generally ceramic tile costs less than porcelain tile.
True. Porcelain Tile is a perfect choice for exterior uses. It comes in anti-slip textures, is easy to clean and has a low water absorption.
True. Porcelain Tile and Ceramic Tile are denser than natural products and tend to be more impervious to dirt.
True. All tile can be lumped together in the ceramic tile category. But not all ceramic tile can be called porcelain therefore the terms are not interchangeable.

Quick Reference Chart

	Porcelain	Ceramic
Design Choices	Many Patterns & Designs	Many Choices
Eco Friendly	Yes	Yes
$$$	Costs More	Cost Less
Water Absorption	Absorbs Less	Absorbs More
Cleanability	Easy to clean	Can be more difficult to clean
Exterior Use	Won’t Freeze thaw	Could Crack

Best Uses

Porcelain can be used just about anywhere. So if the budget allows, porcelain is always a great choice. A word of caution, check with manufacturers when using outside in freeze-thaw areas just to be sure this is an specified use. If a tile absorbs water and then freezes, the water will expand and could crack the tile. Because ceramic has a higher absorption capacity, it is generally not recommended for exterior use in areas that freeze and thaw. Ceramic is almost always a great choice for wall tiles, which get less wear and tear. In addition, some decorative wall tiles are only available in ceramic.

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We just completed a full remodel of our master bathroom. We bought all our tile including floor, shower walls, shower floor and vanity quartz tops from the Stone Quarry of Jupiter. Jolinda was so great to work with and very helpful making suggestions on style and color schemes. Everything came in on a timely manner and in great condition. We love it all! We highly recommend working with her and will definitely work with her on future projects.

Jolinda is beyond phenomenal. We were looking for an alternative for hardwood flooring in our office suite, because we did not want to deal with the upkeep of hardwood. She opened our eyes to tiles that have that desired wood-grain finish at a cost effective manner with a personal touch.

The owner, Jolinda, has a wonderful eye for color and has filled her store with treasures. She helped me pick out a superior product that was in my budget and is a real pleasure to work with. Check out the Stone Quarry of Jupiter! You'll be happy you did.