Table of Contents
Both tiles are clay-based and kiln-fired, but porcelain is technically a specialized type of ceramic. The clays used to make porcelain have a higher density and are fired longer at a higher temperature than ceramic. The difference in ingredients and production methods creates types of tile with unique characteristics.
How do I know if my tiles are ceramic or porcelain?
The easiest and fastest way to tell a ceramic tile from a porcelain tile is to take a look at its edge. A ceramic tile, whether for floor or wall use, has a glaze on top of the surface, giving it its color and finish. Porcelain tiles may be glazed but are frequently not.
How do I know what type of tile I have?
A porcelain tile should feel denser than a similar ceramic one and have consistent color throughout the tile. A water penetration test is the best way to tell the difference. If a tile soaked in water absorbs five percent or less of the water, it is most likely porcelain.
What does porcelain tile look like?
Porcelain tile has the same color throughout the material. A broken or chipped piece of unglazed porcelain will have a uniform color throughout its thickness. Ceramic tile often has a glazed surface coloring, so chips may reveal a different color underneath. The finish of porcelain is smoother than that of ceramic.
How can you tell the difference between ceramic and vitrified tiles?
Ceramic tiles have a coarser texture than vitrified tiles, which are known for their glossy look. However, ceramic tiles have a more natural and earthy look than vitrified tiles, whose glassy appearance gives an artificial touch. The process of vitrification makes vitrified tiles stronger than ceramic tiles.
How can you tell the difference between wall tile and floor tile?
Answer: Floor tile is made thicker and harder to withstand foot traffic, appliances, furniture, etc. And most have added texture to reduce the risk of slips. Wall tile tends to be thinner, smoother and more delicate. It’s also much slicker when it’s wet, which is why wall tile is not recommended underfoot.
How can you tell if ceramic tile is glazed or unglazed?
Glazing only partially covers the edge of a tile, and the bottom of the tile is a completely different color than the glaze on top. Unglazed tiles are the same color all the way through and are thus solid colors.
What to do when you can’t find matching tile?
If you can’t find matching tile, get creative by looking for a similar tile in a different color. Then look at the floor and figure out if it’s possible to create a random or regular pattern with a second color. You may need to move some of the existing tiles around so that the pattern is more widespread.
What is my tile made of?
Tiles are most often made of ceramic, typically glazed for internal uses and unglazed for roofing, but other materials are also commonly used, such as glass, cork, concrete and other composite materials, and stone. Tiling stone is typically marble, onyx, granite or slate.
What are the different types of ceramic tile?
There are 3 types of ceramic tile: glazed, unglazed and porcelain.
Which is cheaper ceramic or porcelain tile?
While both ceramic and porcelain are less expensive than most renovation materials, their price differences are due to their density differences. Porcelain tiles are therefore more expensive than ceramic tiles.
Are porcelain tiles slippery?
Porcelain pavers can be a highly slip resistant choice for outdoor spaces, but it’s important to select the right texture. A smooth, polished tile will naturally be a lot more slippery than a textured paving slab. The higher the rating, the less slippery your porcelain pavers will be.
Does porcelain tile crack easily?
Hard, dense, and solid, porcelain is resistant to most heavy stresses and can even be used in commercial environments. Be aware, though, that the hardness of porcelain can make it slightly more brittle than standard tiles, which means they can be more susceptible to cracking.
What do the numbers on the back of tile mean?
At the back of each tile is a lot number that indicates the batch. When shipped to stores, ceramic tiles are also contained in boxes that have the lot number and the manufacturer’s name. It’s important to know the tile’s lot number so that installers won’t lay down pieces in different colors, patterns and tones.
Are tiles directional?
The same general rule that applies to laying wood tile can’t be applied when laying tile. If you’ve got square tile, or tile to be laid diagonally or in a herringbone or Versailles pattern, the direction isn’t an issue.
How can you tell if tile is vitrified?
Check technical specifications Vitrified tiles are very dense, hence non-porous. It is important to check the technical specifications of the tile and ensure that the tile does not absorb more than 0.1 per cent of water by weight of the tile; tiles with less water absorption are stronger and more durable.
Which tile is better vitrified or ceramic?
Ceramic tiles are less durable as compare to vitrified tiles. Vitrified tiles are more durable as compare to ceramic tiles due to their glass-like surface.
What is the difference between vitrified and glazed tiles?
Vitrified tiles are usually composed of a mixture containing silica and clay. This mixture is used to form a non-porous tile that has a glassy texture. Glaze refers to a smooth, shiny coating or finish. Therefore, glazed tiles are the tiles that have a smooth and shiny coating or finish on them.
Can you use ceramic wall tile for the floor?
Ceramic tiles are not made specifically for floors or walls. While any tile can be used as a wall tile, only certain grades of ceramic tile should be used for flooring, and the grade you choose will depend on the type and amount of use the floor receives.
Can you use wall tile for floor tile?
The reality is wall tiles can work on your floor, depending on the tile in question. Floor tiles need to be thicker and stronger than wall tiles. This is because they bear a larger load. Some wall tiles are thin and walking on them could result in breakage of the tile.
Can you use the same tile on floor and shower walls?
One of the more distinct ways you can include tiles in your bathroom design is to use the same tiles on the floors and the walls. It creates a cohesive look and can make a bold statement if you choose to use a bright color.
