The Difference Between Ceramic Tiles and Porcelain Tiles
When planning your bathroom or kitchen renovation, understanding the difference between ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles helps you choose the best option for your style, budget, and long-term maintenance needs.
✅ What are Ceramic Tiles?
Ceramic tiles are made from natural clay, sand, and water, shaped and baked in a kiln at lower temperatures than porcelain. They are then glazed to add colour and protection.
Key Features:
• Water Absorption: Higher water absorption rates, making them suitable for walls and low-moisture areas.
• Variety: Available in many colours, patterns, and finishes, making them great for decorative walls.
• Ease of Cutting: Softer and easier to cut, reducing labour time and costs.
• Cost: Generally more affordable than porcelain.
Best used for:
• Bathroom walls
• Kitchen splashbacks
• Low-traffic floors
✅ What are Porcelain Tiles?
Porcelain tiles are made from refined clay and minerals, fired at higher temperatures, making them denser, harder, and more water-resistant.
Key Features:
• Water Absorption: Low water absorption rate (<0.5%), making them ideal for wet areas.
• Durability: Highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heavy foot traffic.
• Appearance: Available in various finishes, including polished, matt, and stone-look designs.
• Maintenance: Easy to clean and highly durable.
Best used for:
• Bathroom floors and walls
• Shower areas
• Outdoor areas
• High-traffic flooring
✅ Which is Better for Your Bathroom?
• For walls, ceramic tiles are a cost-effective, attractive choice.
• For floors and showers, porcelain tiles are highly recommended due to their water resistance and durability.
If your budget allows, porcelain tiles provide better long-term value, especially in wet areas like bathrooms, laundries, and outdoor balconies.
🚀 Get Expert Tile Advice
At Paiva Tiling Co, we help you choose the right tiles for your project, ensuring your bathroom or kitchen renovation is beautiful, practical, and long-lasting.
✅ Contact us for a free consultation and tiling quote in Cronulla, the Sutherland Shire, and Sydney.
