What is Better for Bathroom: Ceramic or Porcelain Tiles?
What is Better for Bathroom: Ceramic or Porcelain Tiles?
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are two of the most popular types of tile flooring chosen in South Africa. However, we find that many customers don’t really know the differences between the two, and which one to choose, especially when building or renovating a bathroom.
When choosing a flooring type for your bathroom, you need to be aware of the differences between ceramic and porcelain tiles as well as how to know which is better for your needs.
In this article, we'll explain the key differences between these two types of tiles so that you can make an informed decision about which one is best for you.
What are Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles?
We often get asked, “are ceramic & porcelain tiles the same?”. The short answer, is no. Porcelain tiles are made up of fine kaolin clay compacted together with sand and clay. Once they are compacted and set in their design mould, they are fired in a kiln and high temperatures to bake.
Ceramic tiles are made only from clay – they type of clay used differs from country to country – and it is also fired in a kiln at very hot temperatures. The two tiling types often get mistaken for each other but they certainly are not the same.
Let’s take a look now at the pros of each type of tile;
The Pros of Ceramic Tiles for your bathroom
When it comes to the pros of ceramic tiles vs porcelain tiles, there are two main advantages that make this type of tile appealing to homeowners.
- Easier to use – Ceramic tiles are sturdy and can be easier to install than porcelain tiles. They are also not as slippery when wet as porcelain tiles are, so can be a safer option for the bathroom and other wet areas.
- Available in more up-to-date & intricate designs – ceramic tile ranges are available in very modern and contemporary designs making them a popular choice when renovating bathrooms to modern design standards.
Shop our range of Ceramic Floor Tiles for your bathroom.
Pros of Porcelain Tiles for your bathroom
Porcelain tiles have been a popular choice for home flooring for years, thanks to the aesthetically pleasing look and feel of the smooth, shiny tile. Here’s some more advantages of using porcelain tiles in the bathroom;
- Absorbs less water – porcelain tiles are water-resistant, making them ideal an ideal choice for bathrooms and wet areas like outdoor patios and pool areas.
- More hard-wearing – they are extremely durable and hard-wearing, never showing scratches or cracks often at all.
Shop our range of Glossy Porcelain, Matt Porcelain, and Glazed Porcelain Floor Tiles for your bathroom.
Shop our full range of Bathroom Floor Tiles too!
How to choose between Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles for your bathroom?
Now that you know the pros of each type of tile, we’ve put together some questions to help you decide which tile is best for your needs and your home in particular;
- Which bathroom will you be flooring? A kid’s bathroom, guest bathroom or outdoor bathroom?
- Is the bathroom space indoors or outdoors?
- What will the bathroom be used for? Every day use or once in a while use?
- What is the size of the bathroom?
- What is the design style of the rest of your home? What type of tiling to do you have in other areas?
- Do you have a personal design preference?
- What is your budget? Ceramic tiles are less expensive than porcelain, so that might be a consideration to keep in mind.
What can Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles be best used for?
Both ceramic and porcelain tiles are excellent choices for many tiling needs in the home. At CTM, we offer a range of ceramic wall tiles for floors and walls, as well as porcelain tiles for floors and walls too.
What is the price difference between Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles?
With any kind of building or renovation work, knowing your budget is key. If you know you’re budget and you’re aware of the cost of the tiles you like, you’re able to determine whether your tiling choice will match your price range. Ceramic tiles are less expensive than porcelain, so it’s important to keep that in mind especially if you’re on a tight budget.
Use the CTM tile calculator to get an accurate quote on the cost of the tiles you love before you start your project too.
Shop for all the bathroom tiles you need – from floors to walls – at CTM now.
FAQs
Which between Ceramic Tiles and Porcelain Tiles are better for flooring?
Both have excellent benefits to use as flooring. Ceramic tiles are easy to use and available in modern, intricate designs. Porcelain tiles are water-resistant and durable.
Which is harder between Ceramic Tiles and Porcelain Tiles?
Porcelain tiles are known to be a very hard-wearing, durable tile.
How to tell the difference between Ceramic Tiles and Porcelain Tiles?
Ceramic tiles are made of clay only, whereas as porcelain tiles are a mixture of kaolin clay, minerals and sand.
Why are Ceramic Tiles better for bathrooms than Porcelain Tiles?
Many people choose ceramic tiles for the bathroom area because they are not as slippery as porcelain. But, the choice of tile really is up to you, your personal style and your budget.
