The difference between porcelain stoneware and ceramic floor tiles

The building materials market offers a wide range of products for interior decoration. Some of the most popular are ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles. Both of these products are highly durable, easy to install and have a large selection of different colors, patterns and textures. Despite the fact that these materials are quite difficult to distinguish from each other, each of them has its own advantages, disadvantages, as well as nuances in installation.

Main characteristics of porcelain stoneware

Despite the fact that the same materials are used in the manufacture of porcelain tiles as in the manufacture of tiles, the technology itself is different. During the production of the product, high-pressure pressing is used, due to which porcelain stoneware acquires the following features:

• Its surface quite accurately imitates natural stone;
• Long service life;
• High wear resistance and resistance to mechanical damage;
• Not subject to temperature changes;

Porcelain tiles have a porous surface, making them highly resistant to stains. Almost any contamination can be removed with ordinary warm water.

The main features of ceramic tiles

Tile is one of the most popular finishing materials. It is universal and can be used for finishing any premises, walls and floors.The tiles are quite easy to install and do not require special cleaning. The main advantages of the material include:

• The product is light in weight;
• Moisture resistance;
• Hygiene;
• Low cost;
• Long service life;
• Has a wide selection of colors and patterns;

The product also has its disadvantages. Ceramic tiles are quite fragile and tend to fade.

What distinguishes porcelain tiles from floor tiles

The characteristics that each product has influences its scope of application.

Due to its excellent frost resistance, porcelain stoneware is an ideal material for outdoor surfaces. While the tile is suitable for bathrooms and indoor wall decoration, it is highly durable and does not fade over time, making it an excellent solution for use in high-traffic areas. Ceramic tiles have a wider range of colors and patterns, making them better suited for creating decorative surfaces. Another distinguishing feature of these two products is their weight. Porcelain tiles are heavy, so their installation requires special glue, which is quite expensive.

When choosing the most suitable option, it is worth considering all its characteristics, as well as the conditions under which it will be used. If you take into account all the nuances and choose the right finishing material, it will last for quite a long time.