Porcelain tile is non-porous and therefore has a low water absorption rate, compared to ceramic. Because of it's extremely low porosity levels, porcelain tile is also very dense and durable compared to ceramic.
Porcelain tiles are denser than ceramic, and therefore less porous. Meaning they're harder, therefore more durable and absorb less water.
Porcelain tile is often the best choice for a number of reasons. First, porcelain is extremely durable and it can withstand heavy traffic. Second, it is resistant to moisture and mold, making it an ideal choice for a wet environment. Third, porcelain tile is easy to clean and maintain.
Porcelain tiles are the go-to choice because they boast the best water resistance since they feature the lowest absorption rate.
Porcelain tile, however, is waterproof and proves to be one of the most durable waterproof floors available on the market today. Tile does not tend to scratch or scuff easily, and it's one type of flooring that has continuously proven it's a great option if you're looking for durable waterproof floors.
Porcelain tiles, including large format porcelain tiles are perfect for a wet room. If large format porcelain tiles are chosen a 'envelope' cut will need to be used so that the laying of the tiles follows the fall of the wet room tray to the drain.
Ceramic tile makes cleaning easy as it is not easily stained and can be cleaned with as little as some soap and water — no harsh chemicals needed!
The easiest tiles to keep clean (grout is the big culprit) are polished ceramic and porcelain tiles. The polished finish makes it shiny and easier to wipe down. Just as a semi-gloss paint with a shinier finish is easier to wipe clean than a matte finish paint.
Porcelain tiles are known to have a higher level of durability and water-resistance than ceramic tiles, despite the similar appearance. While these tiles are vulnerable to chipping and cracking, porcelain is resistant to scratches, staining, and mold growth.
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.
Ceramic tile is more porous and therefore has a higher water absorption rate. It should not be used in outside applications. Durability: Ceramic tile is not as tough as porcelain. Avoid using it in high-traffic areas.
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 and ceramic tiles are normally pre-sealed and are much easier to maintain. The main thing to remember is that regular cleaning makes it easier to keep tiles in top condition.
Select the sealant which is made especially for your type of tiles. Most porous tiles need a penetrating sealer which seeps into the tiny spaces which are part of the natural structure of these tiles and fills them in. This stops the tile from absorbing liquids which may spill on them.
Known for their unprecedented strength, durability, affordability, and longevity, porcelain floor tiles are one of our most recommended kitchen, living, and bathroom floor tile options! Porcelain floor tiles are made from dense clay fired at high temperatures and available in many beautiful options like stone and wood.
Choose porcelain
This ensures a cleaner-looking floor as the more scratches and chips your tiles have, the dirtier they look. Porcelain absorbs less water, so they are resistant to stains and are less likely to get mouldy. They are also much easier to clean.
While cool and white-toned colors can make the room feel clean, dark colors actually hide stains and dirt more effectively, and are easier to keep looking clean over time.
Mosaic tiles are the most popular choice for shower floor tiles. The small size of the individual tiles means they conform to the slope and shape of the shower floor better than a larger tile would. There are also more grout lines present between mosaic tiles, offering much-needed slip resistance in the shower.
Water resistance
However, glazed ceramic is only designed to inhibit moisture from being absorbed. Regardless of how ceramic is glazed, it will always be far more absorbent than porcelain. Choose porcelain for tile showers, or opt for ceramic tile for walls and porcelain tile for the flooring.
Eliminate tile and grout – and everything that comes with it.
Ceramic tiles are slippery when they are wet or when they are contaminated with a lot of liquid-like oils, grease, and cooking fats. You can get the best Anti-slip treatment for your floor to become less slippery so that you don't fall.
Water Absorption (W.A.) – Very Important for Bathroom Tile
As a general rule Ceramic tiles absorb more water than porcelain tiles but both can be used in wet areas. For bathroom tile make sure the absorption rating is less than 3% (aka Vitreous or Impervious tiles). Another term for Impervious tile is Porcelain tile.
For indoor installations, porcelain and ceramic tiles will be great for any normal wet environment, like a bathroom or shower wall. For outdoor installations, we recommend porcelain tile.