Ceramic vs. Porcelain Tiles: What’s the Difference?

Introduction

When choosing tile flooring for your home or business, ceramic and porcelain tiles are two of the most popular options. At first glance, they might look similar, but there are key differences in durability, water resistance, and cost that can impact your decision.

Understanding these differences is essential for selecting the best tile for your space, whether you’re renovating a bathroom, upgrading a kitchen backsplash, or installing tile flooring in a high-traffic area.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• ✔ What ceramic and porcelain tiles are made of
• ✔ How they compare in durability, water absorption, and maintenance
• ✔ Pros and cons of each type
• ✔ Which tile is best for your home or business

What Are Ceramic Tiles?

Ceramic tiles are a versatile, budget-friendly option made from clay, minerals, and water that are molded and fired in a kiln at high temperatures. They come in a variety of colors, patterns, and finishes, making them a popular choice for walls, backsplashes, and low-to-moderate traffic flooring areas.

How Ceramic Tiles Are Made

• ✔ Clay Mixture – A blend of natural clay, sand, and minerals is shaped into tiles.
• ✔ Kiln Firing at Lower Temperatures – Ceramic tiles are fired at 1,800–2,000°F, making them less dense and more porous than porcelain.
• ✔ Glazing Process (Optional) – Many ceramic tiles have a glazed surface for added protection, color, and design variety.

Key Features of Ceramic Tiles

✔ Cost-Effective – Generally more affordable than porcelain tiles.
✔ Wide Variety of Colors & Patterns – Available in glossy, matte, and textured finishes.
✔ Easier to Cut & Install – Softer composition makes ceramic easier to cut for DIY projects or intricate designs.
✔ Moderate Water Resistance – Suitable for kitchens, backsplashes, and indoor floors, but not ideal for outdoor or high-moisture areas.

💡 Pro Tip: While ceramic tiles are durable, they are more porous than porcelain, making them less resistant to water and stains. If using in wet areas, choose glazed ceramic tiles for added protection.

What Are Porcelain Tiles?

Porcelain tiles are a denser, more durable type of ceramic tile, made from refined clay and fired at much higher temperatures. This process makes them stronger, more water-resistant, and better suited for high-traffic and outdoor areas.

How Porcelain Tiles Are Made

✔ Finer Clay & Higher Pressure – Porcelain tiles use denser, more refined clay, making them harder and more durable.
✔ High-Temperature Kiln Firing – Fired at 2,200–2,500°F, making them less porous and more water-resistant.
✔ Glazed or Through-Body Construction – Some porcelain tiles have a glazed finish, while “through-body” porcelain tiles have color and pattern running through the entire tile, making chips less noticeable.

Key Features of Porcelain Tiles

✔ Extremely Durable & Long-Lasting – More resistant to cracks, chips, and scratches than ceramic tiles.
✔ Low Water Absorption (Less Than 0.5%) – Perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces.
✔ Frost & Stain Resistant – Suitable for freezing temperatures and commercial spaces.
✔ Realistic Stone & Wood Looks – Available in high-end finishes that mimic marble, slate, and wood planks.

💡 Pro Tip: Due to their hardness, porcelain tiles can be more difficult to cut and install—it’s best to hire a professional for precision cuts and a flawless finish.

👉 Considering porcelain tile flooring? Contact Milwaukee Flooring Company for expert installation and a free consultation today!

Key Differences Between Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles

While ceramic and porcelain tiles may look similar, they have major differences in durability, water resistance, cost, and best uses. Below is a side-by-side comparison to help you decide which tile is right for your project.

Ceramic vs. Porcelain Tiles: Side-by-Side Comparison

Which Tile Should You Choose?

✔ Choose Ceramic If… You need affordable, easy-to-install tiles for walls, backsplashes, or low-traffic areas.
✔ Choose Porcelain If… You need highly durable, water-resistant tiles for wet areas, heavy foot traffic, or outdoor spaces.

💡 Pro Tip: If installing tile in a bathroom, entryway, or outdoor space, porcelain is the better choice due to its water resistance and durability.

👉 Still not sure which tile is right for you? Our experts at Milwaukee Flooring Company can help you choose the best option for your space. Schedule a free consultation today!

Pros & Cons of Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are a versatile and budget-friendly option, but they are less durable than porcelain. Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages:

✅ Pros of Ceramic Tiles

✔ Affordable – Generally less expensive than porcelain tiles, making them a great option for budget-conscious homeowners.

✔ Wide Variety of Designs – Available in different colors, patterns, and textures, perfect for walls, backsplashes, and decorative accents.

✔ Easier to Cut & Install – Softer material makes ceramic tiles easier to cut, ideal for DIY projects.

✔ Comfortable Underfoot – Less dense than porcelain, making it softer and warmer to walk on.

✔ Good for Low-Traffic Areas – Great for walls, backsplashes, and indoor flooring in low-moisture spaces.

❌ Cons of Ceramic Tiles

🚫 More Porous & Absorbs Water – Not ideal for wet areas like showers or outdoor spaces unless properly sealed.

🚫 Less Durable Than Porcelain – More likely to chip, crack, or wear down over time, especially in high-traffic areas.

🚫 Requires More Maintenance – Needs regular sealing to prevent staining and moisture damage.

🚫 Not Recommended for Outdoor Use – Can absorb moisture and crack in freezing temperatures.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re using ceramic tiles in a kitchen or bathroom, choose glazed ceramic tiles for better stain and water resistance.

👉 Considering ceramic tile flooring? Contact Milwaukee Flooring Company for expert installation and a free consultation today!

Pros & Cons of Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are highly durable and water-resistant, making them a great choice for high-traffic and moisture-prone areas. However, they can be more expensive and harder to install. Here’s a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks:

✅ Pros of Porcelain Tiles

✔ Extremely Durable & Long-Lasting – Porcelain is denser and harder than ceramic, making it highly resistant to scratches, chips, and wear.

✔ 100% Waterproof – Absorbs less than 0.5% of water, making it perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and outdoor spaces.

✔ Ideal for High-Traffic Areas – Great for entryways, hallways, and commercial spaces due to its toughness.

✔ Stain & Frost Resistant – Resists staining, freezing temperatures, and heavy foot traffic, making it great for outdoor use.

✔ Mimics Natural Stone & Wood – Available in high-quality designs that resemble marble, slate, and wood planks.

❌ Cons of Porcelain Tiles

🚫 More Expensive Than Ceramic – Typically $3–$10 per sq. ft., making it a pricier flooring option.

🚫 Harder to Cut & Install – Requires special tools due to its density, making DIY installation difficult.

🚫 Heavier Than Ceramic – May require reinforced subfloors in some installations.

🚫 Less Comfortable to Walk On – Harder and colder underfoot, making it less comfortable in living areas without rugs or heating.

💡 Pro Tip: If you love the durability of porcelain but want a warmer feel underfoot, consider installing radiant heating beneath your tiles.

👉 Considering porcelain tile flooring? Contact Milwaukee Flooring Company for expert installation and a free consultation today!

Which Tile Is Best for You?

Both ceramic and porcelain tiles offer durability and style, but the best choice depends on where you plan to install them, your budget, and your lifestyle needs.

Choose Ceramic If…

✔ You’re looking for a budget-friendly tile option.
✔ You need tile for walls, backsplashes, or low-traffic indoor areas.
✔ You want a material that’s easier to cut and install (great for DIY projects).
✔ You don’t need 100% waterproof flooring (but you can use glazed ceramic in some moisture-prone areas).

Choose Porcelain If…

✔ You need a highly durable, water-resistant flooring option for bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor areas.
✔ You want tile that resists stains, scratches, and heavy foot traffic.
✔ You need a long-lasting investment (porcelain can last 50+ years with proper care).
✔ You prefer realistic stone, wood, or marble designs with enhanced durability.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re installing tile in a wet area, high-traffic space, or outdoors, porcelain is the better choice due to its waterproof nature and durability.

👉 Still unsure which tile is right for you? Our experts at Milwaukee Flooring Company can help you choose the perfect tile for your home or business. Schedule a free consultation today!

Final Thoughts – Ceramic vs. Porcelain Tiles: Which One Should You Choose?

Both ceramic and porcelain tiles are great flooring options, but the right choice depends on your space, budget, and durability needs.

✔ Ceramic is best for budget-friendly indoor projects like backsplashes, walls, and low-traffic areas.
✔ Porcelain is the better choice for high-moisture, high-traffic, or outdoor areas due to its waterproof and ultra-durable qualities.

If you’re still unsure which tile is best for your home or business, let Milwaukee Flooring Company help! Our team offers expert advice, professional installation, and free consultations to ensure you get the perfect tile for your space.

👉 Click “Get an Estimate“ or call us today to schedule your free consultation!