Porcelain tile is highly durable. Because it is extremely hard and dense, this tile resists wear, scratching, chipping, and cracking. That makes it an exceptional choice for homes with pets and active children.
Let's answer a few popular FAQs about the features of porcelain tile: Do porcelain tiles crack easily? – Simply put: no! Among tile options, porcelain stands out as a very strong and durable choice.
Porcelain tiles resist wear, scratching, chipping, and breaking because it is exceedingly hard and thick. They are sturdy and long-lasting. As a result, it is an excellent choice subjected to all kinds of usage.
The clays used for ceramic tile are less dense than porcelain clays, which means ceramic tiles are somewhat more prone to cracking and breaking. Unglazed ceramic tiles may also need to have sealers applied to the entire tile, not just the grout lines.
Generally, porcelain will melt or break when you subject it to temperatures above 1600C. This temperature is attainable when you expose porcelain tile to direct heat, such as that of a fireplace. Direct exposure will cause the porcelain to crack, melt or even explode.
The standard strength test for porcelain dinnerware should yield an impact strength of about 0.36 foot-pounds of force. The flexural strength for these materials is about 60-70 megapascals (MPa), about 8700-10,200 pounds per square inch (psi), at best, with earlier examples being significantly weaker.
LONG LASTING PORCELAIN - These cups are great for office use and home use, as they can be used without problems both in cold and hot temperatures.
Extremely hot water in a cold sink
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.
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.
Durability: The density of porcelain tile makes it more durable than ceramic tile while being less subject to wear and tear. This makes it more suitable for commercial use as well as in the home. Water Resistance: Porcelain tile is almost impervious to water compared to ceramic tile.
The truth is that porcelains are not fragile. The reason we think they are fragile is that many of the items we have known that are crafted from porcelain, like cups and dolls, are very breakable.
First, put the piece on a flat surface, such as a tabletop. Then give it a little tap. “If it rings it's probably fine,” Lackey says. “If it's a dull sound, it means you'll want to look a lot closer.” That dull sound usually — although not always — will indicate a crack or defect.
Porcelain is less likely to crack under extreme heat, whereas ceramic can become damaged, cracked, or even change shape when exposed to extreme heat.
As long as porcelain tiles are in a good condition before laying and laid correctly then no chipping should occur over time. If something extremely heavy were dropped on them then they could crack and chip but this would be the same for any flooring under those conditions.
Though popular for being gentler alternatives to harsh chemical cleaners, baking soda, Borax, and even salt can harm the finish of your porcelain fixtures. As gentle as they are, these compounds are still abrasive and will scratch your finish, especially with regular use.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions in mixing the porcelain filler for the repair work then using a matchstick or toothpick, to apply the filler to the cracked area. For a large crack, it is recommended that you apply the filler in layers. Allow the filler to dry, then sand it before applying the next layer.
Cons to consider:
Although porcelain tile is extremely durable, it does occasionally chip, particularly around the edges. This may not be noticeable with through-body composition, but it is a concern. Porcelain tile is typically more expensive than ceramic and other popular flooring materials.
Difference in Cost
Ceramic is typically cheaper than porcelain because it has a lower firing temperature during production. To achieve true porcelain, it must be fired much higher, leading to a sturdier material with fewer impurities in the composition.
Known as the most durable type of tile on the market, porcelain is harder, denser, tougher, and less porous than ceramic tile. It also has a very low absorption rate, meaning it's virtually impervious to water damage, even after prolonged exposure.
The durability of porcelain and stoneware varies depending on the composition and quality of the clay used. Porcelain clay is made from kaolin, a white clay, and can be crafted into thinner, more delicate pieces making it a bit more fragile.
These can appear for a number of reasons, but ultimately time will be what makes them worse. It could take months, years or even decades for a crack to really become pronounced in your porcelain! In kitchens (and some bathrooms), temperature changes can be a major culprit in the formation of porcelain cracks.
This is likely the result of thermal shock. In this case the clay and glaze expand at different rates when exposed to temperature variation, and this change causes the object to crack. To be more specific, the body has contracts more than the glaze.
Pouring boiling water directly into a cold porcelain or stoneware cup, bowl or mug may cause the item / glaze to crack (thermal shock).
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.
Pouring boiling water is quite risky as it might lead to a steam burn or scalding. Another thing to keep in mind is what type of material you are pouring in into. If you have a porcelain sink, it is likely to crack due to the heat.