Don’t be fooled: not all tile floors are created equal. You may find the terms “ceramic” and “porcelain” get thrown around a lot when you are searching for a new bathroom floor. However, there are differences between these two materials that can help you decide which tile is right for you.
Understanding the Difference
Water Resistance
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are both from the ceramic family, but their compositions are different enough to give them each unique qualities. One major difference is that porcelain tile is less porous than ceramic tile and therefore less likely to absorb water. Ceramic tile has an absorption rate of more than 3% while porcelain tile needs to have an absorption rate of less than one-tenth of 1% in order to truly be porcelain.
Maintenance
When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, porcelain tile is more forgiving when it comes to stains and scratches because it’s composition protects it from minor damages. To clean porcelain tile, all you need is to sweep regularly depending on how much traffic your floor sees and give it a good mopping once a month. Ceramic tiles are also easy to maintain, but because they can absorb moisture so quickly, you have to be careful with spills. Sweeping or vacuuming once a week will make it easier to mop and keep the ceramic tile clean.
Durability
The clay that ceramic tiles are made of is less dense than the clay used for porcelain tiles. This means that, while both tile materials are strong, porcelain is better in situations where a stronger, more durable tile is needed, like in a bathroom or outside. However, the process used to make porcelain tile is a little more intensive, so the tile can be more expensive.
Ultimately, the tile choice you make will be decided by your budget, what you intend to use the tile for, and how often you have the clean the tiled space. The good thing is that there are experts at FloorQuest that can help you make a decision that will keep you and your family happy for years to come. We believe you deserve a beautiful space, no matter what.
FloorQuest proudly provides outstanding customer service paired with the best flooring and cabinetry products available. Contact Us today or visit any of our FloorQuest locations.
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