The Debate
Porcelain and ceramic are popular tile materials in today’s backsplash and flooring options. For many homeowners, the question of which to choose remains: Is porcelain tile or ceramic tile better?
IRG carries a range of mosaic, subway, field and large format tile from various local vendors. No matter which material you prefer – porcelain or ceramic – we have options for you to view in our showrooms. To help you make the right choice for the right application, we’ve put together these guidelines:
Your Location is going to get a lot of use!
High foot traffic areas like living rooms, kitchens and hallways beg for porcelain flooring. As porcelain is a type of ceramic that has been processed at higher temperatures, it is denser than ceramic tile and offers better resistance to scuffs and scratches. Households with children and pets will especially appreciate the durability of porcelain tile floors.
Your Room has a lot of moisture
Bathrooms also love porcelain because they absorb much less moisture. Because porcelain is already dense, it won’t wick up wetness. In fact, it’s nearly waterproof so it’s a top choice for flooring, mud, and laundry rooms.
This doesn’t necessarily mean that ceramic is a bad choice for bathrooms; ceramic tiles have still been used for decades in showers. These days, it’s an even more popular choice for kitchen backsplash and around sinks.
You Want to add a handmade touch
The art of handmade ceramic tile has made a loving return to kitchen and bathroom design. If you cherish the idea of sustainable design and product crafted by individuals, then handmade ceramic tile is for you!
Mediterranean and Spanish inspired interiors crave traditional artisan-made tile. But companies, like Fireclay Tile, are redefining the handmade clay tile industry with bold, contemporary colors and patterns that designers love using in modern interiors.
You Want to DIY
A lower price point and softer structure make ceramic tiles a great DIY material. Ceramic is easier to cut, install and adhere to a floor or backsplash. Be sure to choose ceramic if you’ll need to make lots of cuts or install around fixtures yourself.
We’re Talking about a Patio
When it comes to patio flooring, nature isn’t tidy…or kind. If your patio area is exposed to extreme cold or freezing, ceramic is risky because it may absorb moisture, expand, and crack. As previously mentioned, porcelain tile is denser and more durable; thus, it can better withstand the outdoor elements.
Porcelain pavers are becoming increasingly popular for patio and outdoor usage. These pavers typically come in natural slate- or limestone-like colors with 2cm (3/4″) thickness, making them a budget-friendly and lower maintenance alternative to natural stone tile.
Ready to Select?
Contact us and head over to an IRG showroom to view your tile options in-person! Our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you on your project decisions, providing samples and answering your questions along the way.
We carry tile vendors with a variety of porcelain and ceramic tile options. Check out their websites below to see the full selection of tile we can order for your project: