A popular question during bathroom remodeling projects is whether to use ceramic or porcelain. The bathroom, is the most frequently used room in the home, and it can be the most expensive to remodel.
The bathroom is exposed to more moisture than any other part of the home, so the first thing to consider is making the bathroom as waterproof and as durable as possible. This is more important than picking the right colors or design. Care must be used to select the appropriate durable, water resistant material for the bathroom. This includes selecting the right tile as well as the material behind the tile. The right tile will be load-bearing, be able to handle high-traffic and be nonporous to prevent water from finding its way into the home. Additional characteristics would include cost, durability, abrasion resistance and aesthetics.
Selecting Tile
The two distinct types of tile that meet these requirements are ceramic and porcelain tiles. Due to modern manufacturing techniques, the costs of both types of tile fall well within the budget of most homeowners. Porcelain tiles are more expensive than ceramic tiles. This is largely because porcelain tiles are more dense and durable, which translates into better long-term performance.
Ceramic Tile
Those who are new to tile installation will appreciate that ceramic tiles are easier to cut. They are also less expensive, stain resistant, difficult to scratch, easy to clean and readily available at most local distributors. Unfortunately, they are less durable than porcelain, and they are not typically "through-color". This means that the color within the tile may not be the same as it is on the surface. Ceramic is also more permeable than porcelain, which makes them less water-resistant.
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are dense, hard, and tough. They are about 30 percent stronger than granite. Non-glazed porcelain tiles are usually the same color all the way through its thickness. They stand up to weather including frost and have a higher durability rating than ceramic. Polishing can give porcelain tiles a high sheen. Since porcelain tiles can be cut to smaller sizes, they can be used for complex patterns. They allow the installer to achieve tighter grout lines.
However, it should be taken into consideration that porcelain tiles require special tools for cutting that do require some specialized skills and knowledge. Latex acrylic mortar should be used as an adhesive, and a flat substrate is needed for large porcelain tiles if they will be used on a load-bearing surface in a high traffic area to avoid breakage.
Which Is the Better Choice?
To answer that question, the homeowner must first ask themselves how long they intend to live in the home. If it is for a short duration, then ceramic tiles are a good option. They cost less to install and are easier to install. However, if they plan on staying in the home long-term then porcelain tiles are the better option. They will last for a long time, and they are considered to be the premium option. If a homeowner is still confused, the best bet is to purchase porcelain as long as they can afford it.
The bathroom is exposed to more moisture than any other part of the home, so the first thing to consider is making the bathroom as waterproof and as durable as possible. This is more important than picking the right colors or design. Care must be used to select the appropriate durable, water resistant material for the bathroom. This includes selecting the right tile as well as the material behind the tile. The right tile will be load-bearing, be able to handle high-traffic and be nonporous to prevent water from finding its way into the home. Additional characteristics would include cost, durability, abrasion resistance and aesthetics.
Selecting Tile
The two distinct types of tile that meet these requirements are ceramic and porcelain tiles. Due to modern manufacturing techniques, the costs of both types of tile fall well within the budget of most homeowners. Porcelain tiles are more expensive than ceramic tiles. This is largely because porcelain tiles are more dense and durable, which translates into better long-term performance.
Ceramic Tile
Those who are new to tile installation will appreciate that ceramic tiles are easier to cut. They are also less expensive, stain resistant, difficult to scratch, easy to clean and readily available at most local distributors. Unfortunately, they are less durable than porcelain, and they are not typically "through-color". This means that the color within the tile may not be the same as it is on the surface. Ceramic is also more permeable than porcelain, which makes them less water-resistant.
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are dense, hard, and tough. They are about 30 percent stronger than granite. Non-glazed porcelain tiles are usually the same color all the way through its thickness. They stand up to weather including frost and have a higher durability rating than ceramic. Polishing can give porcelain tiles a high sheen. Since porcelain tiles can be cut to smaller sizes, they can be used for complex patterns. They allow the installer to achieve tighter grout lines.
However, it should be taken into consideration that porcelain tiles require special tools for cutting that do require some specialized skills and knowledge. Latex acrylic mortar should be used as an adhesive, and a flat substrate is needed for large porcelain tiles if they will be used on a load-bearing surface in a high traffic area to avoid breakage.
Which Is the Better Choice?
To answer that question, the homeowner must first ask themselves how long they intend to live in the home. If it is for a short duration, then ceramic tiles are a good option. They cost less to install and are easier to install. However, if they plan on staying in the home long-term then porcelain tiles are the better option. They will last for a long time, and they are considered to be the premium option. If a homeowner is still confused, the best bet is to purchase porcelain as long as they can afford it.
About the Author:
In Denver, Grout Medic is the foremost expert on grout and tile cleaning. Their many years of experience inrepairing cracked tiles ensures quality tile and grout restoration.
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