What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic?

When it comes to wall and floor tiles, porcelain and ceramic are terms we hear a lot, but do we really know how they differ? Although at first glance they may seem similar, these materials have unique characteristics that make them more suitable for certain uses. Choosing the right material can make all the difference in durability, aesthetics and functionality in a space.

In this post we are going to explain the essential differences between porcelain and ceramic, their advantages, disadvantages and when to choose one or the other. Read on and become an expert in materials for your next decoration or construction projects!

What is porcelain tile?

Porcelain tile is a high-quality ceramic material distinguished by its strength, durability and versatility. It is made from a mixture of refined clays, sands and other minerals, which are compacted under high pressure and fired at extremely high temperatures, generally in excess of 1,200ºC. It is this manufacturing process that gives it unique properties that make it ideal for a wide variety of uses.

Main characteristics of porcelain tiles

- Low porosity. It has almost zero water absorption (less than 0.5%), which makes it highly resistant to humidity and suitable for outdoor environments or damp areas such as bathrooms or kitchens.

- High resistance. It is highly resistant to wear, impact and stains, making it a durable option for both flooring and cladding.

- Versatile aesthetics. Thanks to modern technologies, porcelain tiles can imitate materials such as wood, marble or cement with great realism, offering a wide variety of designs and finishes.

- Indoor and outdoor use. Its resistance to temperature changes and frost makes it ideal for outdoor spaces, without sacrificing style or functionality.

Types of porcelain tile material

There are several types of porcelain tile, each with specific characteristics that make it suitable for different applications. The main types of porcelain tile are:

- Technical or compact porcelain tile. It is completely homogeneous in its mass, i.e. it has the same composition and characteristics throughout its structure. Its advantages include its high resistance to wear, impact and temperature variations. Perfect for use in high traffic areas such as shopping centres, corridors and public spaces.

- Glazed porcelain tile. It has a layer of enamel on the surface, which allows it to have a greater variety of colours, finishes and designs. In this sense, it presents greater aesthetics and greater versatility in finishes (glossy, matt, satin). Ideal for decorative applications in interiors, such as bathrooms, kitchens or residential floors.

- Polished porcelain tile. This is a glazed porcelain tile that undergoes a polishing process to give it a shiny, smooth finish. It is very aesthetic, with an intense shine and a smooth finish, which makes it ideal for luxury interiors and architecture, such as in homes, hotels or high-end commercial spaces.

- Non-slip porcelain tile. It has a rough or textured finish that improves traction and reduces the risk of slipping. It is resistant to water and damp, ideal for outdoor surfaces or damp areas such as bathrooms, showers, terraces, swimming pools, stairs or outdoor areas.

- Rectified porcelain tile. After firing, the edges of the tiles are ground to exact and uniform dimensions, allowing for a more precise installation and narrower joints between tiles, achieving a more uniform and aesthetic finish. In this sense, it is ideal for spaces that require a modern, seamless appearance, such as interior floors and walls.

- Imitation porcelain tiles (wood, stone, cement, etc). This type of porcelain tile is designed to imitate natural materials such as wood, stone or cement, using digital printing techniques. Its main advantage is that it offers the appearance of natural materials without the disadvantages (maintenance, costs, etc.). It is therefore ideal for places where a natural aesthetic is sought but with the advantages of porcelain, such as floors and walls in homes, offices and restaurants.

What is ceramics? 

Ceramic is a traditional and versatile material widely used in wall and floor tiles, ceramics and decorative objects. It is mainly composed of a mixture of clay and other minerals that are moulded and fired at high temperatures, although lower than those used in porcelain, generally between 800 and 1,000 ºC. This process gives it its particular characteristics, which vary according to the type of ceramic and the finishes applied.

Ceramic characteristics

- Moderate porosity. It has a higher water absorption than porcelain, which makes it more suitable for interiors and dry spaces, although there are glazed versions that improve its resistance to humidity.

- Adequate resistance. Although it is not as resistant as porcelain tile, ceramic offers good performance under normal conditions of use, making it ideal for wall and floor coverings with moderate traffic.

- Varied finishes. It can be found in a wide range of colours, textures and designs thanks to the glazes and decorations that are applied during its manufacture.

- Affordable cost. Generally less expensive than porcelain, making it a popular choice for projects on a tight budget.

Types of ceramics

The types of ceramics are classified according to their composition, manufacturing process and end use. The most common are listed below:

- Earthenware. A ceramic made from fine clays that is fired at lower temperatures. It is normally used for tiles, tableware and garden items. It is noted for its high water resistance and high durability. It has a more rustic appearance and a porous surface.

- Stoneware. Stoneware is a ceramic material widely used in construction and decoration, known for its strength, versatility and durability.

- Glazed ceramic. This ceramic is treated with a vitreous glaze that gives it a smooth, glossy finish. The glass coating provides a resistant and easy-to-clean surface, as well as offering decorative colours and patterns.

- Refractory ceramic. Composition made of clays with high thermal resistance. It is used in the manufacture of materials for furnaces, fireplaces and other applications where resistance to high temperatures is required. It has a great capacity to withstand heat, which makes it ideal for industry.

Main differences between porcelain and ceramic

Although porcelain and ceramic share similarities in origin and use, they have important differences in terms of composition, resistance, aesthetics and applications. Here are the main differences.

Composition and manufacture

Porcelain tiles are made from finer clays and selected minerals and are subjected to a process of compaction and firing at higher temperatures (above 1,200ºC), which gives them greater density and strength. Ceramic, on the other hand, uses a simpler clay mixture and is fired at lower temperatures (800 - 1,000 ºC), making it a more porous and less compact material.

Porosity and water absorption

Porcelain tile has minimal porosity, with water absorption of less than 0.5%. This makes it ideal for exteriors, wet areas or areas exposed to extreme conditions. Ceramic, on the other hand, is more porous and has a higher water absorption, which limits it mainly to interiors and low humidity environments, unless it is glazed.

Resistance

Porcelain is more resistant to wear, impact and stains. It is better able to withstand high traffic conditions and temperature changes while ceramic is more suitable for domestic use in interiors and moderate traffic areas.

Aesthetics and finishes

Both currently offer a wide variety of finishes, designs and colours. However, ceramic does not have such sophisticated finishes as porcelain, which can faithfully imitate other materials such as wood, stone, cement or marble.

In short, porcelain is a premium choice for its durability and versatility, while ceramic is an economical and functional alternative for less technically demanding projects. The choice will depend on the type of space, the budget and the specific needs of each project. 

How to choose between porcelain and ceramic

The choice between ceramic and porcelain depends on your specific needs in terms of durability, aesthetics, budget and location. Below we help you make the best choice for different situations, but if you have any doubts, you can get personalised advice here:

- For floors in high traffic areas. Choose porcelain if you need a more resistant and durable material. Porcelain tile is ideal for floors in high-traffic areas such as corridors, shops, offices and busy homes.

- For high humidity areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, exteriors. Porcelain tile is ideal for these types of areas, where moisture is frequent. Due to its density, it is not affected by humidity, which prevents the growth of mould or bacteria.

- For modern and high-end styles. Choose porcelain if you are looking for a more sophisticated aesthetic and luxury finishes. Porcelain tile offers great precision in manufacturing, imitating materials such as wood, stone or marble, with exceptional realism. If you are looking for a polished and elegant finish for high-end floors or walls, porcelain tile is an excellent choice.

- For walls and low-traffic areas. Choose ceramic if the budget is tighter and the use less demanding. Ceramic remains an excellent choice for low-traffic walls and floors, offering good durability and a wide range of decorative designs.

In summary, porcelain and ceramic are two materials widely used in construction and decoration, but each has different characteristics, advantages and applications. If you are looking for a durable, resistant and versatile material for high-traffic areas or areas exposed to extreme conditions, porcelain tile is the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prioritise design and functionality in interior spaces on a tighter budget, ceramic is an excellent alternative.

Choosing between porcelain and ceramic depends on your specific needs and the use you plan to make of the material. Now that you know the main differences, you can make an informed decision to achieve functional, resistant and aesthetically attractive spaces. Choose wisely and make your project a success!