Ceramic tiles or porcelain tiles?

The choice of finishing materials is one of the key moments in the renovation process, and the question of what to choose - ceramic tiles or porcelain tiles - is relevant for many. Both materials have their own unique characteristics, and understanding their features will help you make an informed choice.

Ceramic tiles

Ceramic tiles are a traditional material for interior decoration that has been used for many decades. They are made by firing clay with the addition of minerals and are often covered with glaze, which gives it shine and resistance to moisture.

The advantages of ceramic tiles include a variety of designs, cost-effectiveness, ease of installation and versatility. It is suitable for both wall and floor finishing in rooms with moderate traffic, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

The disadvantages of ceramic tiles include lower strength, sensitivity to moisture and limited frost resistance.

Porcelain tiles

Porcelain tiles are a modern material that is made by pressing and firing a mixture of clay, quartz and other natural components. It has high density and strength, which makes it resistant to mechanical stress and deformation.

The advantages of porcelain stoneware include the ability to withstand significant mechanical stress, resistance to moisture and temperature changes, as well as wide possibilities for imitating the texture and appearance of natural materials.

The disadvantages of porcelain stoneware include high cost, difficulty in installation and the coldness of the material.

Depending on the conditions of use, the following can be recommended: for finishing a bathroom, porcelain stoneware can be an excellent option, especially for the floor. Its minimal water absorption and good resistance to chemicals make it indispensable in conditions of constant contact with water and cleaning agents. However, if you prefer warm surfaces under your feet, then it is better to choose ceramic tiles.

In which rooms should ceramic tiles be used, and in which porcelain tiles?

1. For bathroom decoration, porcelain tiles can be an excellent option, especially for the floor. Its minimal water absorption and good resistance to chemicals make it indispensable in conditions of constant contact with water and cleaning agents. However, if you want to save money and at the same time create a warmer and more comfortable atmosphere, you can use a combination of materials: porcelain stoneware on the floor and ceramic tiles on the walls. This will preserve the functionality of the room without exceeding the budget.


2. In the kitchen, porcelain stoneware also shows its best qualities, especially on the floor, where a material is required that can withstand high loads and frequent mechanical impacts. Porcelain stoneware, due to its strength, can easily cope with the movement of furniture and the fall of kitchen utensils. For facing the apron, where aesthetics and protection from dirt are important, ceramic tiles will be a good choice. It will not only add a decorative accent, but also ensure ease of maintenance due to its smooth surface.


3. Corridors and hallways are areas with intensive use, where floors are constantly exposed to dirt, moisture and mechanical stress. In these conditions, porcelain stoneware will be the ideal solution. Its high wear resistance and scratch resistance will ensure a long service life of the coating, preserving its original appearance. In addition, porcelain stoneware is easy to clean, which is especially important in such areas.


4. In the living room, where the main emphasis is on comfort and a cozy atmosphere, ceramic tiles can be used to create stylish accent walls or decorative panels. If you plan to lay tiles on the floor, especially in high-traffic areas, you should consider porcelain stoneware in combination with a "warm floor" system. This solution will ensure not only the durability of the coating, but also a comfortable surface temperature, which is especially important in residential areas.


5. For outdoor work, such as finishing terraces, porches or building facades, porcelain stoneware is the undisputed leader. Its frost resistance and resistance to temperature changes, as well as high resistance to ultraviolet radiation, make it an ideal choice for such tasks. Porcelain stoneware does not lose its qualities even with prolonged exposure to adverse weather conditions, which ensures its durability and preservation of its aesthetic appearance for many years.

When choosing between ceramic tiles and porcelain stoneware, it is important to consider not only the appearance, but also the functional characteristics that are necessary for a particular room. If your priority is savings and ease of installation, as well as an aesthetic component, then ceramic tiles will be an excellent option for interior spaces with moderate loads, such as walls in a bathroom or decorative elements in a living room. If strength, durability and resistance to external influences are in the first place, especially in conditions of high humidity, temperature changes or intensive use, then porcelain stoneware will be the best choice, especially for floors, facades and outdoor work.

Thus, the combination of these two materials in different areas of your house or apartment will allow you to create a harmonious, stylish and functional space that meets your expectations and needs.