Porcelain tiles are generally less expensive than natural stone tiles, with the average price per square foot ranging from $3 to $10 for porcelain and $5 to $20 for natural stone. However, prices can vary depending on the type of stone and porcelain that's being used, as well as their quality and availability.
Stain & Water Resistant
Unlike some natural stone tiles, that can easily be stained or absorb moisture porcelain has a very low rate of water absorption. This makes porcelain ideal for use in wet rooms bathrooms or kitchens but also a good option for use outside.
Ceramic tiles are kiln-fired at a lower temperature than porcelain tiles, making them less dense, softer, and more porous. The clay used in its composition is also less refined, making it a more affordable, albeit less durable, option.
On average, putting in a porcelain floor costs between $8 and $15 per square foot. For a marble floor, the cost may be between $9 and $24 per square foot. These prices include both the materials and the installation.
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.
Porcelain is more costly than ceramic, but more affordable than natural stone. While its durability can be beneficial, it can also make the tile trickier to install.
Porcelain Countertop Price
The average price of porcelain slabs including installation is between $55 to $120 per square foot. Meanwhile, the average price of granite and quartz countertops including installation is around $45 to $200 per square foot and $75 to $150 per square foot, respectively.
The costs of quartz countertops and porcelain countertops are quite different. The average cost of porcelain lies between $55 to $120 for every square foot. On the other hand, the average cost of a quartz countertop ranges from $45 to $200 for every square foot.
Granite too is a porous stone with high moisture absorbency. Though it can tolerate moisture only when it is properly installed and sealed. Porcelain is impervious to moisture. Hence Porcelain tiles and paving are preferred in bathrooms, kitchens, or humid outdoors.
Natural stone for bathroom countertops, floors, and walls is a viable option, thanks to modern sealers that reduce stone's susceptibility to water damage and staining. Natural stone may be a good choice for homeowners who want to seriously upgrade their homes with this exclusive, expensive building material.
Granite — Not only is granite beautiful, but it's also more durable and resistant to freeze-thaw cycles than most other hardscape materials. In addition, granite has a low absorption rate and is highly resistant to fire and heat. Depending on the type, granite is rated six or seven out of 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale.
The three cheapest options for landscaping rocks are pea gravel, river rocks, and crushed concrete. There are other options, including lava rock, which is more expensive, and slate, which can be brittle and break easily. But for the most part, these three options will be the cheapest and most versatile for your needs.
Porcelain tiles are not 'natural stone' tiles; rather, they are man-made tiles. Whilst not 'natural stone', they are made from clay that has been compressed and fired to extremely high temperatures.
Porcelain resists scratches, chips, and cracks, but the delicate slabs can be difficult to work with and can break easily during transportation or fabrication. As we mentioned early, the design is stamped on the surface of the porcelain, so when worn or marred, it may reveal the absence of color and pattern underneath.
Beyond countertops, porcelain can also be used for shower walls and flooring. Porcelain showers are a beautiful option, and when considering porcelain slabs vs quartz, you may want to keep in mind that porcelain can offer a more comprehensive solution for surfaces.
Durability and Scratch Resistance
Porcelain is as hard as granite and quartz, and in some instances, even a little harder. It will be fairly difficult to scratch, chip or crack – and why it is so popular for flooring. However, just like granite or quartz, any material can chip under the right circumstances.
The lifespan of a porcelain countertop is at least 10 years and as much as a lifetime, depending on usage, care and maintenance. The bottom line: Porcelain countertops stand up to everyday life, and they look good doing it!
Quartz wins as the most durable material for any kitchen construction or renovation. Having a durable countertop is a lifelong investment and if you plan to sell your home at some point in the future, its value will be higher if you've used a durable countertop like quartz.
Tile Countertops
Ceramic and porcelain tile are among the most affordable varieties and come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including designs that mimic granite and other stone. Natural stone tiles are pricier than ceramic but are much more affordable than slab granite or marble.
Porcelain has a high level of mechanical resistance, low porosity and high density, which, on a daily basis, provide it with durability, innocuity, soft touch and beauty.
Hard, dense, and solid, porcelain is resistant to most heavy stresses and can even be used in commercial environments. Be aware, though, that the hardness of porcelain can make it slightly more brittle than standard tiles, which means they can be more susceptible to cracking.
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.