Both ceramic and porcelain tiles offer excellent performance in terms of resistance to wear. However, porcelain tiles have a slight edge due to their higher density and hardness, making them an excellent choice for areas that experience heavy use, such as kitchens, hallways, and entryways.
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.
Glazed ceramic tiles are a good choice for a kitchen backsplash. Ceramic tiles, both glazed and unglazed, are a good choice for walls where moisture is not a problem (like bathrooms and kitchens). Porcelain tile is the best choice for outdoor patios. Ceramic tiles are not durable enough for weather conditions.
While porcelain tiles may have a higher upfront cost, their durability and longevity can provide better long-term value. Porcelain tiles can last 75–100 years with proper maintenance, while ceramic tiles may need replacement sooner, especially in high-traffic areas of your home.
Porcelain's high-temperature manufacturing process results in a dense, hard, and compact material that's extremely durable. In general, porcelain tiles and slabs are durable and won't crack, break, or chip when installed properly.
Porcelain tile are a different material than ceramic tiles. They don't need to be sealed as they are a much harder surface. And from our water test, there doesn't seem to be any absorption of water at the surface of the tile. It seems you may have a grout problem.
Porcelain tiles are ideal for cold-weather climates where freeze/thaw conditions are a concern. In addition, due to its low moisture absorption rate (0.5% or less), porcelain is less likely to crack and is more impervious to stains.
Usually, ceramic tile has fewer additives than what's used in porcelain clay. If you never want to replace your bathroom wall tiles again, then porcelain is an excellent choice. Not only is porcelain highly durable, but it's also sturdy and extremely water-resistant. You don't have to worry about stains or scratches.
The Durability of Porcelain Tile
It's ideal for both residential and commercial applications and can withstand heavy foot traffic and various environmental conditions. On average, porcelain tile can last 50 years or more when properly installed and maintained.
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. It is also preferred because of its smooth feel and sleek look.
It is made from a more refined clay and fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tile, resulting in a denser and less porous material. This makes porcelain tile an excellent choice for high-moisture areas like showers.
Avoid using ammonia or bleaching agents on the tiles; they damage porcelain tiles and stain grout. Oil-based wax detergents and cleaners damage these floors, too. Cleaners with dyes also stain porcelain tiles; avoid them.
Yes. Tile flooring is designed to handle water, but it's not completely waterproof. Over time, grout can wither away and cracks can form, creating the perfect entrance for those accidental spills to seep into. Water that gets under your tile can lead to all sorts of problems, including mold growth.
Porcelain is crafted from a mix of fine clays and minerals fired at extremely high temperatures, making it harder and denser than ceramic tile. Porcelain resists staining, water, bacteria and odors. It's difficult to scratch, resists fire and comes in a variety of shapes, colors and styles.
Not all porcelain tiles need sealing, but for polished porcelain and other tiles you will need to seal them as soon as possible after installation, and ideally every few years afterwards - depending on how heavy the tiles' use is.
Ceramic and porcelain tile doesn't increase your home's value as much as hardwood or waterproof floors do. But if you want to make your kitchen and bathroom look gorgeous, they're probably your best options to achieve that goal.
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are also stain-resistant. However, they can be scratched by dirt, sand, or grit that is tracked on your shoes.
When it comes to bathroom tile trends for 2025, marble bathroom tiles are having their moment. Whether it is a classic white marble like the Carrara Bianco Marble or checkerboard tiles like the Riviera Emerald & White, marble tiles are sure to elevate any bathroom scheme, adding a timeless elegance.
Porcelain tiles are also great because they absorb less than 1% of water, making them naturally resistant to stains and moisture. These features make simple cleaning bathroom tiles easier.
Cost. Porcelain tile tends to be priced higher than ceramic tile due to its relatively superior durability and water resistance as well as requiring a more energy-intensive manufacturing process. Installation. Their density and hardness make them more challenging to cut and install.
Tiles in marble, limestone or terrazzo will never go out of style. These are the materials we consider to be the most classic and timeless.
You can perform a simple water absorption test by placing a few drops of water on the back of the tile. If the water is absorbed quickly, it's likely ceramic. If it beads up or takes a while to absorb, it's probably porcelain.
Tiles have little to no give once they're installed, so their environment plays a huge part in keeping them in place and intact. Changes to that environment, incorrect installation, or unexpected impact or weight, can all lead to cracks in the tiles.