We’re breaking it down for you in three different categories — usage, budget, and aesthetic — to help you determine which of these tile flooring options makes the most sense for you.
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Where are you using it?
Porcelain:
Porcelain tile is made from clay and other natural elements, but its clay-based composition defines it as a subcategory of ceramic tiles.
Because of its lack of water absorption and simple maintenance and upkeep, porcelain tile can be used in a variety of both indoor and outdoor spaces. For example, an outdoor patio, bathroom, or laundry room would be prime contestants for this tile type. Because porcelain can withstand heavy traffic over long periods of time, you’ll typically find it used as flooring as well as a countertop material.
When purchasing porcelain tile, you will have the option to glaze it or keep it unglazed. Unglazed, or full-bodied, tiles have color running through the entire thickness (as opposed to a glaze placed on the top), making them longer lasting and more resistant to chipping.
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Ceramic
Ceramic tiles are kiln-fired at a lower temperature than porcelain tiles. The clay they’re made from is also less refined than porcelain, which makes ceramic a more affordable choice. But with increased affordability comes a decrease in durability.
If you’re living in a warm climate (shoutout to all our Tennesseans), ceramic flooring can be a great choice. The cooling nature of ceramic tile offers some relief during those hot summer months.
Ceramic flooring is best used in less high-traffic areas and should be avoided in spaces where water exposure is evident. Sunrooms or home offices can be the perfect places to add a touch of ceramic personality. Ceramic tile is also a great choice when considering a tiled accent wall.
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What is your budget?
Porcelain
Porcelain may take home gold when it comes to versatility, but its high cost can pose a major drawback. On average, porcelain costs 60 percent more than ceramic. It’s also much more difficult to install, often requiring professional installation. (Good news: We can help you there!)
Ceramic
If you’re working on a tighter budget, ceramic flooring is the more affordable option. It’s also relatively versatile and much easier to install. Ceramic is a great, budget-friendly option when you’re looking to purchase large quantities of tile.
What look are you going for?
Porcelain
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are almost indistinguishable at a first glance. But porcelain does offer varieties that ceramic can’t. For example, porcelain can be manufactured to resemble different materials.
With this option available, you can very easily mimic the look of stone or wood with a porcelain tile. This makes porcelain flooring especially popular in areas, like a bathroom, where you may want a wood look, without risking the water damage that could come with a hardwood floor.
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Ceramic
The clean line look of a ceramic tile makes this flooring an attractive and popular choice. Plus, the durable glazed finished can be customized in several different patterns and colors.
Typically, ceramic tile comes in a solid color, making that the key differentiation from porcelain. However, simulations of wood grains or natural stone can still be found in ceramic.
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Using our Online Gallery, you have access to an organized catalog of our products. Navigating the gallery is simple and can be done on your computer or right from your phone.
Once you have a few options to pull inspiration from, an In-Person Design Consultation with our team of experts will help you narrow down your choices and make the perfect porcelain or ceramic flooring selection for your home or office reno project.
