Why Are Porcelain Tiles More Expensive

Both tiles are made from a clay mixture that’s fired in a kiln, but porcelain tile is made from more refined clay and it’s fired at higher temperatures. That’s why porcelain tile is more expensive than ceramic tile and generally considered to be of higher quality as well.

Why is some porcelain tile more expensive?

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are made from clay materials and fired at high temperatures. It’s more difficult to reach those higher temperatures (which create a denser, more durable product), so the higher the temperature, the more it adds to the cost.

Are porcelain tiles better than ceramic?

Density & Durability Porcelain tiles are denser than ceramic, and therefore less porous. Meaning they’re harder, therefore more durable and absorb less water. This makes them more suited to high footfall areas which will see heavy use.

Do porcelain tiles get cold?

Considering this, are porcelain tiles cold? The high density of porcelain means it’s less likely to absorb moisture. They also do not crack due to cold and can even withstand freezing temperatures, which means they can be used outdoors to create a seamless look.

What country makes the best porcelain tile?

Production. Large-scale production of porcelain tile is undertaken in many countries, with the major producers being China, Italy, Morbi India, Spain and Turkey. There are also countries undertaking small-scale production, such as Australia and strong growth in Brazil.

Is porcelain tile waterproof?

You may have guessed where this is going: porcelain tiles are not waterproof, they are water resistant. That means that if you submerge them in water long enough, then they will eventually allow that water to seep through.

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.

Are porcelain tiles more expensive to lay?

However, porcelain is also more expensive than ceramic tile, and its also a lot harder to cut and drill through for fitting towel rails or lights. This may add to the cost of the project and may make ceramic tiles and better option for bathroom walls.

What are the cons of porcelain tile?

Although porcelain tile is extremely durable, it does occasionally chip, particularly around the edges. This may not be noticeable with through-body composition, but it is a concern. Porcelain tile is typically more expensive than ceramic and other popular flooring materials.

Is porcelain tile slippery when wet?

Ceramic and porcelain tile floors can be notoriously slippery. There is a reliable way to find out how slippery floor tile will be under both wet and dry conditions. It’s a slip resistance rating system called COF (or coefficient of friction) published by tile manufacturers.

What grade of tile is the best?

Grade is the numerical ranking that reflects tile quality. Grade 1: Highest quality. Recommended for walls or floors. Grade 2: Similar to Grade 1, but with slight imperfections.

What is the best grade of porcelain tile?

Grade 1 tiles are the weakest, with the best application as wall tiles. Grade 2 tiles are best used in areas where there is light traffic, such as residential bathrooms. Grade 3 tiles can withstand slightly heavier traffic, and is the most common choice for residential applications.

Is porcelain tile more expensive than ceramic tile?

Cost of Porcelain vs. 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.

How do you tell if your tile is ceramic or porcelain?

Appearance. 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.

What are the pros and cons of porcelain tile?

The Pros and Cons of Porcelain Tile

• Install Yourself? Yes.
• Best Uses: All-purpose; also commercial installations.
• Pros: Toughness, variety of design.
• Cons: Requires modified setting material to anchor it to substrate.
• Price Range: $3–$6.

How do I choose porcelain tile?

Adding porcelain tile can increase a home’s value.

1. Check Standards. The first step in selecting porcelain tile is to match the tile to the use.
2. Find the Class. Porcelain tile is rated in five classes for abrasion, or resistance to wear.
3. Glazed or Unglazed.
4. Check Absorbency and Slippage.
5. Pick Right Color.

What flooring lasts the longest?

Tile Flooring Porcelain and ceramic are some of the longest lasting flooring materials available, and they require little maintenance. Tile flooring is also moisture resistant, making it the perfect choice for areas where spills are common like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

What can damage porcelain tile?

Regular use of corrosive chemicals can erode the surface of the tile, and increase its water absorption rate. Corrosive chemicals will also erode the grout, which will loosen the tiles and allow water to get beneath the tiles creating dampness. For everyday cleaning of porcelain tiles, just use warm water and a mop.

Is porcelain tile hard to install?

Heavier: Again, porcelain tile is denser than ceramic tile. The higher weight of porcelain tile also makes it more difficult to install. It’s a lot of work carrying around the heavier tiles, and most installers like the material less for that reason.

Does porcelain tile need to be sealed?

The surface of most ceramic and porcelain tile does not need to be sealed, although some require a light application of a penetrating sealer to fill the micro pores on the surface of the tile. However, the grout joint between the tiles is usually very porous and generally made of a cement-based material.

How can I tell if my porcelain tile is glazed?

Visual Inspection. If you are working with new tiles, you can easily tell if a porcelain tile is glazed or not by looking at the side of the tile, or the underside. 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.

How can you tell good quality tiles?

To help you out we’ve outlined a few tips to help you select the right tile for your space:

1. Down to the basics. The first step is deciding what kind of tile you need.
2. Size-it-up.
3. Choose the right finish.
4. The right colour.
5. Plan ahead.
6. Grout it right.
7. Mix and match.
8. Ability to absorb water.