What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain floor tiles?
There are many good reasons to choose ceramic or porcelain floor tile for your bathroom or kitchen. The tile presents a clean and classy look. It doesn’t harbor dust and dirt, and it’s easy to clean. Combine it with wall tile, get a little creative, and you’ve got a unique spa-like look. Today, homeowners also choose these traditional flooring materials for other rooms in the home. You can find the perfect tile, regardless of your home improvement plans, at Haight Carpet & Interiors, a tile shop in Woodinville, Washington. We provide a shop at home service, too.
Type of clay
Ceramic tile is made of coarse clay, while porcelain tile is made of fine kaolin clay. This more refined clay is hardened in the kiln at a higher temperature. Because of the difference in composition and kiln temperature, porcelain is harder and denser than ceramic. Installers can cut ceramic with a tile cutter, but a wet tile saw must be used to cut porcelain. While ceramic is a very durable material, porcelain tile is the better choice for a high-traffic area.
Water absorption
The density of the material determines water absorption. Thus, porcelain naturally repels water. Porous ceramic is only waterproof when it is glazed. If you want to keep your budget in check, consider installing ceramic tile on walls and porcelain on floors. Ceramic tile tends to come in solid colors, simple designs, and standard sizes. Porcelain brands are available in many shapes, sizes, and colorful designs, some of which mimic hardwood and stone.
Family-owned Haight Carpet & Interiors offers more than a large selection of ceramic and porcelain tile. Our tile store provides residential installation services and commercial and contractor services with flooring estimates always free. Communities in our western Washington service area include Kirkland, Redmond, Bothell, and Bellevue. Please stop by our showroom in Woodinville to begin your tile flooring upgrade, or make an appointment for our mobile showroom to come to your home.