We dive deep into the differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles to help you choose the right material for your home renovation projects. From composition and moisture resistance to durability and price points, we cover everything you need to know before making this critical design decision.

• Porcelain tiles use finer materials and are fired at higher temperatures (1,200-1,400°C) making them denser with less than 0.5% water absorption
• Ceramic tiles are fired at lower temperatures (700-1,000°C) with 3-7% water absorption, making them less suitable for wet areas unless properly glazed
• Porcelain offers superior durability, especially for high-traffic areas and can withstand freeze-thaw conditions outdoors
• Modern porcelain manufacturing techniques create realistic imitations of natural materials like stone and wood
• Ceramic tiles are more budget-friendly (starting at $0.50/sq ft vs. porcelain at $2/sq ft) and easier for DIY installation
• Kitchens and bathrooms generally benefit from porcelain's moisture resistance and durability
• Living rooms and bedrooms can use ceramic tiles effectively where moisture isn't a concern
• Commercial spaces with high traffic strongly benefit from porcelain's wear resistance

Call us at 614-543-8334 or visit www.belktile.com with any questions about your tile project. Find us on Facebook and Twitter at BelkTile and on Instagram at BelkTiles.