More specifically, porcelain tiles are what is often referred to as “moisture proof.” As you might imagine, this means that they are impervious to moisture, which means that they aren't likely to get easily damaged simply by being in bathrooms or even wet rooms.
Porcelain tiles tend to be harder, more resilient and more stain-resistant than ceramic tiles. They are one of the easiest types of tile to maintain but their surface can eventually be eroded by the regular use of corrosive chemicals such as ammonia, bleach or acids that can also damage the grout and loosen the tiles.
Water Resistance: Porcelain tile is almost impervious to water compared to ceramic tile. According to the ASTM standards, porcelain must have a water absorption rate of 0.5-percent or lower. Ceramic tiles are more porous and often have a higher water absorption rate.
Impervious porcelain tile has less than 0.5% water absorption rate, vitreous porcelain being 0.5-3% and ceramic being 3-7%.
Standing water does not directly damage ceramic tiles. However, the grout between tiles is not entirely waterproof and allows moisture to seep through, collecting moisture under the tiles. If you have a plywood base or particleboard under the tiles, it will start to swell and warp, pushing the tile to lift even harder.
More specifically, porcelain tiles are what is often referred to as “moisture proof.” As you might imagine, this means that they are impervious to moisture, which means that they aren't likely to get easily damaged simply by being in bathrooms or even wet rooms.
Porcelain tiles are relatively water-resistant, but they're not 100% waterproof. Small splashes of water will be ok, but porcelain tiles will get weaker over time, which is when the damage can happen.
The major difference between porcelain tile and ceramic tile is how it's made. Both tiles are made from a clay mixture that's fired in a kiln, but porcelain tile is made from more refined clay and it's fired at higher temperatures. This makes it denser and more durable than ceramic tile.
Take care to avoid exposing porcelain to permanent inks or dyes, as these might not be removable. If porcelain surfaces are exposed to permanent marker or dye, rinse the area with water as soon as possible then apply approved cleaning product. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Compared to other flooring materials, such as hardwood flooring, natural stone, or vinyl tile, porcelain tile can be less comfortable underfoot due to its hardness. It's colder to walk on, especially in the winter.
Porcelain clays are denser and thus less porous than ceramic clays. This makes porcelain tile harder and more impervious to moisture than ceramic tile. Due to its through-body composition, it is considered more durable and better suited for heavy usage than ceramic tile.
Stone tiles often are waterproof, and porcelain tiles are far more waterproof. Porcelain tiles have a very similar look to ceramic tiles, being also made from clay. However, they go through a different heating process which makes them less porous. This also makes them harder and less prone to chipping.
Low Maintenance
Because of their highly durable properties, porcelain tiles are simple to maintain. Simply wash them off regularly and clean up the grout in between and they will remain in good shape for years.
And it can grow on any surface — porcelain, plastic, copper, silicone — as long as that surface is coated with organic matter. "Mold doesn't live on your shower walls or the grout or caulk; it actually lives on the deposited skin cells and soap residues (which have your skin cells in them)," Duncanson says.
Porcelain Veneer Lifespan
Porcelain veneers have excellent durability. The porcelain veneer lifespan is an average of 10 years, but they can easily last up to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Porcelain veneers usually fail if they are not correctly bonded to the teeth. The dentist must follow specific guidelines to ensure a perfect bond. Without proper bonding, the veneers could chip or break off.
Never use a product containing ammonia or bleach (or any type of acid-based cleanser); these can alter the tile color and/or stain the grout. Never use oil-based detergents or wax cleaners. On unglazed porcelain, never use any cleaners that contain dye or coloring.
Porcelain tile has a 60+ year life expectancy, so you definitely get your money's worth. It's perfect for walls, floors and indoor/outdoor installations. Rated for high-traffic areas, you won't have to worry about your porcelain floor degrading over time.
It is not necessary to seal any glazed tiles or good quality un-polished porcelain tiles; however, once again we recommend the use of a grout protector if you want to protect the grout to keep it looking its best and to make ongoing maintenance easier.
Nowadays, most toilets are made of porcelain, a ceramic material processed through high levels of heat.
Cost of Porcelain vs. Ceramic. While both ceramic and porcelain are less expensive than most renovation materials, their price differences are due to their density differences. Porcelain tiles are therefore more expensive than ceramic tiles.
Density & Durability
Porcelain tiles are denser than ceramic, and therefore less porous. Meaning they're harder, therefore more durable and absorb less water. This makes them more suited to high footfall areas which will see heavy use.
Unsealed grout will make your tile floor vulnerable to water damage. Standing water underneath the floor will stain the grout, thus allowing bacteria and fungi to grow. They will soon develop mold spores and you will notice black stains on the corners of the tiles.