Not only choosing the design, paint color or wall wallpaper, apparently choosing the right tile for your room is also important. The proper choice of tiles consists of the type, texture, and material.
There are two major types of tiles, which are versatile and chic. These tiles are suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, backsplashes, and even walls. They come in a wide variety of colors and designs, making it possible for you to match or create your own style.
When you are either designing or redesigning your home, there will be a point when you will have to decide from Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles. So, what are those tiles? What is the difference? How do you tell when it's time to use them?
Only for Fiftwiners, here comes the Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles:
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are made out of a finer clay called kaolin or kaolinite, with some additional ingredients, such as quartz and feldspar. They are then fired at a higher temperature than ceramics, commonly between 2,200 and 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Porcelain is harder than ceramic, but it is also more brittle.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic is a tile made of semi-coarse clay that has been heated in high temperatures, between 1,800 and 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, until it becomes solid. When it hardens, it absorbs more water than porcelain, but it is usually coated to make it water and stain resistant.
How do you tell if it's Porcelain or Ceramic?
Source: Pinterest
Ceramic and porcelain look pretty much the same unless you have a discerning eye. By no means is it always easy to tell the difference at a glance, but here are some tips for it:
- Porcelain tiles have different markings throughout the piece, heavier weight and are not for DIY-ers considering the difficulty of installation.
- Ceramic tiles show softer clay appearance, more design diversity and tend to be easier to cut or install.
Which one is better?
It is hard to say which one is better because each has its advantages and disadvantages. But here are some conditions that determine which tile is better for you to use for your room:
- Porcelain tiles are an ideal choice for cold weather climates that often undergo freezing conditions. Furthermore, porcelain tends to be less crack prone and more resistant to stains.
- Porcelain is firmer due to its manufacturing process, which makes it even more durable than ceramics. Hence, porcelain is ideal for commercial and household use, given that it can handle more wear and tear.
- Porcelain tiles have better resistance to water, so they are ideal for places that have a lot of moisture. This durability also makes porcelain tiles great for outdoor use.
- Ceramic tiles shine in certain situations and are very easy to customize. If you want a tile that is more eye-catching—emphasizing your aesthetic edge, ceramic is the ideal tile for you.
- Ceramic tiles are NOT suitable for outdoor use as they are not resistant to weather and temperature changes.
- Ceramic tiles are not as tough as porcelain, so it is wise to avoid using ceramic in high-traffic areas.
Source: Pinterest
Well, that is a little information about ceramic and porcelain tiles starting from understanding the types, how to distinguish, to which tiles are suitable for your room.
With Fiftwin Design Strategist, you can achieve your dream room design including the type of tiles. Check out other Fiftwin design projects and claim your FREE consultation now!
Content Writer: Nisrina Salsabila