What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic tile
The primary difference lies in the density and durability of the material. At Wayne Tile, we generally recommend Ceramic for wall applications and Porcelain for floors and high-traffic areas.
Porcelain: The Modern Standard The vast majority of new, high-end tile—especially the latest collections from Italy utilizing advanced production technology—is Porcelain. It is fired at much higher temperatures than ceramic, making it "impervious" to water and incredibly dense.
- Performance: Porcelain is frost-proof and highly resistant to scratching, making it the only choice for floors and outdoor spaces.
- Style: Because of modern technology, porcelain now offers the most stylish and realistic designs, perfectly mimicking natural stone, wood, and marble with superior durability.
Ceramic: Best for Walls Ceramic is a lighter, more porous material. Because it is easier to cut, it is an excellent and cost-effective choice for interior walls, kitchen backsplashes, and bathroom accents. While beautiful, ceramic is not intended for floor use as it does not have the same impact resistance as porcelain.
If you are looking for the latest in tile design and "life-proof" durability, porcelain is almost always the answer. We reserve ceramic for hand-crafted looking wall tiles or decorative wall features where the material won't be subject to foot traffic or the elements.
