Types of Tile- Ceramic VS. Procelain

Here at Clayton we want our customers to be informed of all the different types of tile that is available to them. So lets break it all down for you on this beautiful Monday!

Ceramic and Porcelain
These are essentially the same, with one slight difference. Both are part of a larger category of tiles that we call ceramic. Lets look at the differences!

Difference #1: Water Absorption Rate
Porcelain tile has a water absorption rate of 0.5% and fired at a higher temperature than ceramic. After it is fired the tile is weighed. If the tile weighs less than half of one-percent more as a result of water absorbing into its surface, it is considered porcelain. Porcelain tiles has less impurities than ceramic and is often rectified.

Interior or Exterior: No Ceramic Outside
Laying porcelain or ceramic tile outside is typically not recommended. Ceramic is usually not durable enough for exterior use because it absorbs too much water. If you live in areas which freeze, your tile would likely crack on the first freezing night. We always recommend a porcelain tile that is specified for exterior use and has a texture that will prevent slipping!

Density: Porcelain Tile is Denser Than Ceramic
This basically means that porcelain tile is harder and more impervious to moisture than ceramic.

Durability: Porcelain Wins!
Porcelain tile is more dense than ceramic but it can have a through-body composition which allows it to be considered for heavy usage than ceramic tile. Chip the ceramic tile and you will find a difference color underneath the top glaze. Chip the thorough-body porcelain and the color keeps going- the chip is nearly invisible. While both porcelain and ceramic are fired, porcelain is fired at higher temps for a longer time than ceramic, making it more durable than ceramic!


We stock both porcelain and ceramic tiles here at Clayton. The decision is yours! Most people like to go with a porcelain tile for its amazing durability! Both types can be used in bathroom and flooring applications and work well in a residential environment!!