8 comparative points: porcelain tiles vs ceramic tiles
Jan 04, 2017 Interiors
Anchor: Priya Arya
Photographs: iStock
Photographs: iStock
The market today is inundated with a variety of ceramic products. And the jargon is one that sends the mind off in a tizzy. And to top this, there’s also the question of whether porcelain tiles are better than ceramic ones. Architect Mrinmayee Wadwekar gives us an easy-to-understand snapshot of the ceramic v/s porcelain tiles debate.
1. Manufacturing
Ceramic tiles are made from red or white clay, minerals and water. They are then fired and glazed as ceramic is porous.
Porcelain tiles These are generally made from a sand-like material which is heated and pressed.
2. Water absorption
Ceramic tiles are more porous than porcelain tiles, and therefore absorb more water.
Porcelain tiles are dense and absorb less water than ceramic tiles.
3. Hardness
The Porcelain Enamel Institute rates the hardness of both ceramic and porcelain tiles on a scale of 0 to 5. The PEI usually rates ceramic tiles in the 0 to 3 range. Porcelain scores 4 or 5.
4. Wear & tear
Chips are more visible in ceramic tiles as it is normally a superficially coloured product. However, when coated with a high-quality glaze, ceramic tiles become extremely resistant to scratching.
A true porcelain tile has the same colour throughout its body, and therefore the chips aren’t that obvious.
5. Application
It all boils down to using the right class of tile for the right use. But generally speaking ceramic tiles are suitable for walls and floors with very light to moderate traffic.
Porcelain is more appropriate for heavily frequented areas, and bathrooms and laundry rooms since they are durable and resistant to moisture. Porcelain is also better for outdoor areas where winter is harsh as they can withstand the dynamics of freezing and thawing much better.
6. Handling & installation
Ceramic tiles do not require very skilled labour or special equipment.
Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, is hard enough to be brittle and is prone to cracking. It therefore needs skilled hands and special cutting equipment.
7. Cost
All other factors being equal, ceramic tile is cheaper than porcelain tile.
8. Maintenance
Both ceramic and porcelain tiles can be easily cleaned with warm water and soap. Grout lines get particularly dirty so laying tiles with minimum grout spacing helps.
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About the author
Mrunmayi Wadwekar
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