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.
We typically refer to all porcelain tiles as "waterproof" because water will not have a significant impact on the top of the tile or on the body of the tile. Porcelain tiles can be installed indoors or outdoors.
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.
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.
However, porcelain tiles can be somewhat more brittle than standard ceramic tiles, and they have some of the same drawbacks as ceramic tile, including their heavyweight, coldness, and hardness underfoot.
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.
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.
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.
As opposed to other flooring options, Porcelain floors don't require as much maintenance. They have high moisture resistance making them simple to clean, there is minimal upkeep (beyond regular cleaning) and the maintenance is non-existent. Durability is another big plus for porcelain tiles.
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.
Porcelain tile is water resistant
Porcelain tile has a 0.5% water absorption rate, making it highly resistant to moisture penetration. While not entirely waterproof, it offers enough moisture resistance in outdoor environments, including rainy and humid climates.
Rainy weather will not harm the porcelain because no matter where or how it gets wet, it will not absorb water or degrade. Imagine an outdoor patio after a flood.
While porcelain is resistant to scratches, etching and stains, these surfaces are not damage proof. Take care to avoid exposing porcelain to permanent inks or dyes, as these might not be removable.
Porcelain tiles are among the most hygienic building materials, completely free of moisture and inhospitable for the growth of bacteria of all kinds.
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.
Before you get started with a cosmetic or restorative dentistry plan that includes dental porcelain, you may be thinking, “Isn't porcelain fragile?” The answer is, “Yes and no.” While a porcelain doll or a porcelain glass may be fragile, a porcelain knife is strong and so are porcelain restorations.
In the case of less durable materials such as porcelain, fiberglass, wood and glass, these materials will eventually break down and erode if exposed to drastic temperature shifts over long periods of time. These usually will manifest as cracks, material stripping or warping.
The first and often the only step necessary to identify repairs on art pottery is visual inspection of the piece in bright light. Direct sunlight works best. Well over 95% of restorations can be detected by simple visual inspection in bright light.
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.
For best results, give your porcelain tile a quick once-over at least once a week. This will prevent the buildup of dirt and grime that can erode the finish. Are you planning on cleaning weekly? Start by sweeping or vacuuming away dust, dirt, and crumbs to clean the surface.
For an item like porcelain to break down, it does not require the presence of moisture, microorganisms, oxygen, and a suitable environment. Instead, it needs harsh weather conditions because that is the only thing that can wear it out. And get this – the process can take thousands of years, if not more.
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.
Nowadays, most toilets are made of porcelain, a ceramic material processed through high levels of heat. Porcelain is the material of choice because of its durability, low porosity, and density.
Porcelain tile is water-resistant, which makes it ideal for areas exposed to lots of water—AKA, your shower.