Porcelain Tile: Why You Should Choose It over Ceramic

If your living space currently has patches of dull floorings, then perhaps this is the best time to coat them up with elegant floor coverings. You can choose from a wide array of carpets and parquet coverings, but none of them can match the durability of porcelain tiles.

Homeowners prefer tiles above any other kind of floor coverings, but they are oftentimes faced with a dilemma on which type of tiles to choose. Will it be porcelain, or ceramic? Both of them serve their purpose of providing your floors with beauty and strength, but there are differences between the two that makes porcelain tiles stand out from the rest. 

A porcelain tile is actually a ceramic tile, but it is the better kind of ceramic tile. Let's go first with the similarities. They are both composed of the same ferrous sand materials, which are clay and quartz, combined with water. Once the tiles are formed, they are blazed in high temperatures and are sometimes glazed to end up with a smooth and shiny surface.

One of the main reasons why most people prefer tiles over the other floor coverings is the feeling of cleanliness that the tiles exude when seen on the floor. This aspect, on the other hand, is also where porcelain tiles have an advantage as compared to the ceramic ones.  

Ceramic tiles are formed using red, brown and white clay, while most porcelain tiles are composed of only white clay. Their clay compositions explain why porcelain tiles appear cleaner and sleeker than the ceramic ones. There is a slight reddish coloration underneath the surface of a ceramic tile that is caused by the mixing of white and red clay during its formation.

Apart from the difference on the appearance, the most important factor that sets a porcelain tile apart from a ceramic tile is it durability. Since porcelain tiles are composed of more highly refined and purified clay, they are denser and more moisture-resistant than ceramic tiles. 

As a result, porcelain tiles can endure the moisture that can be caused by extreme weather conditions. Because they are less likely to absorb moisture, the more they can protect themselves from stains. If you're the man of the house, isn't it quite a relief that you'll be spared a lot of your time from just making your floors squeaky clean? With porcelain tiles, you can simply leave them as it is, no matter how harsh the environment can be. 

It's not surprising that more people are now replacing their floor coverings to porcelain tiles. They are not only ideal for indoor flooring, but they are starting to become popular as an outdoor flooring as well. With their low absorption capability, porcelain tiles can definitely withstand a cold temperature outdoors. They are less likely to crack when exposed to freezing temperatures. 

With all of the good qualities that porcelain tiles possess, it really makes good sense to start having them as a floor covering. They are definitely more expensive as compared to ceramic tiles, but durability-wise, you'll be able to save more money in the long run. Porcelain tiles are certainly worth an investment.

Buying Porcelain Ceramic Tiles

Your home is a haven. As much as possible, you want to incorporate all the best features in your abode. After all, it is where you mostly hold personal events, entertain your guests, and come to after a long and stressful day. It is an investment. It is your pride. It is a reflection of you. Therefore, it is understandable that you want to choose the ceramic porcelain tiles to be included in your home finishing.

That is right. The ceramic porcelain tiles are becoming one of the top choices of many homeowners. They are practical and durable. They have the capacity of turning an ordinary home into such an adorable abode.

Why the Porcelain Tiles?

Coming from the Italian term, ìporcellanaî, the term points to something like a ìcowrie shellî and is known for its translucent characteristic. It was first invented in China and by 17th to 18th centuries was exported around Europe by means of jars and other intricately designed ornaments. But then again, what has made it popularly known worldwide as of today is the base material that ranges from the soft to hard paste which makes it up.

Alright, so why should you prefer it over other materials? Porcelain is highly resistant to abrasions and high temperatures. It is non-porous which means it minimizes water absorption which therefore makes it longer-lasting. The tiles are good both for commercial and residential finishing.

The ceramic porcelain tiles are available in a variety of finishes, colors, and sizes. Each of them is unique and requires different ways of maintaining them. Hence, it is very important to know how you can keep them clean at all times.

Learning How to Clean the Tiles

Over time, dirt can pile up and eventually abrade the tile. If it happens, you will notice a change in the feel of the tile as well as in its looks. It may appear stained or dirty even when it has already been cleaned. For better effects, it is mostly recommended to use a solution that is made up of one part vinegar as equated with 100 parts water. Or you can use 2 gallons of water with a quarter cup vinegar. This acts as a very mild cleaning and maintaining agent. There are of course tile cleaners sold in the market. Without following the instructions, they can stain the tiles. Therefore, be sure to dilute them according to the procedure stated in them.

When it comes to cleaning the polished tiles, first sweep or vacuum the surface. Use a mild detergent solution or soap by diluting it to half the recommended amount for the other types of tile surfaces. Apply the cleaner with a mop or tile-safe scrubbing brush or pad. Then, rinse the floor with clean water and let it dry with a towel. This will keep it shiny and leave no water spots.

Ceramic porcelain tiles can add beauty to your home. Thus, it is up to you to keep it sparkly clean and attractive over the years.