Ceramic tiles have gained popularity in the past decade that most households are designed with a lot of research on tiles. Ceramic tiles include stoneware, earthenware, and porcelain. Many tend to interchange the terms ‘ceramic’ and ‘porcelain’ assuming they are the same. Kitchen facade companies is flourishing due to the major demand for both these types of material. Here are the pointers that will help you determine the difference between ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles.
1) Density – Although all tiles seem hard by its external properties, on further inspection the density of porcelain is more than that of ceramic. Porcelain is less porous than ceramic hence the water resistance level in porcelain is higher. Exterior areas like porch, garden sit out or areas constantly in contact with water like swimming pools and fountains can use porcelain tiles. Many recommend avoiding the use of these types of tiles for exterior use, but the recent trends suggest otherwise.
2) Properties of tiles Porcelain tiles are known to have a low rate of water absorption. Though ceramic and porcelain are types of a wider range of ceramics, yet the slight difference has a great impact on their characteristics. Porcelain has lesser impurities which make it durable for external use and heavy usage. It is also high in heat resistance.
3) Cutting of the tile As the density of porcelain is high, it is more brittle while cutting the tiles into the desired shape and size. Ceramic, on the other hand, is easy to cut and does not need highly experienced hands as porcelain tile would. Kitchen tiles Singapore have some of the most trend-setting designs which are easier to carve out on ceramic tiles.
4) Longevity Porcelain tiles are a lasting beauty which has a large pool of textures, surface finishes, patterns, shapes, sizes, and color. With the experienced installation, the tiles can last a lifetime. Even when it chips you will see the same material as it was on the surface. Whereas, ceramic tiles tend to have a different color under the surface so it is more prominent when exposed.
5) PTCA Though many companies claim to supply porcelain tiles, you can conveniently check if is certified by the PTCA (The Porcelain Tile Certification Agency). The tile samples are tested before declaring the quality of the material. This also results in porcelain tiles working out to be more expensive than ceramic tiles.
Both kinds of tiles have their own unique qualities which help you determine your choice of tiles.