Ceramic vs Porcelain Tile – A Feature Comparison
When choosing between ceramic vs. porcelain tile for your home, it is important that you understand the terminology, distinctive features and PEI ratings for this type of flooring. Ceramic tiles include porcelain and non-porcelain tiles; however, non-porcelain tiles by themselves are often called “ceramic tiles”, which can be confusing. Learn more about the differences in this video:
Porcelain tile is dense, fine grained, impervious and smooth and has a sharply formed face. It is manufactured from porcelain clays using the dust pressed method. They tend to be frost-proof or frost-resistant as they typically absorb water at a much lower rate than non-porcelain tile. Glazed porcelain tiles are coated with a liquid glass baked into the clay surface. The glazing process provides protection from staining as well as unlimited options for designs and colors. Glazed tile is suitable whether you have light or heavy foot traffic as they are harder and have greater damage and wear resistance than non-porcelain tiles. In full body porcelain tiles, the color and pattern is carried through the entire tile thickness, so they do not show wear. You can choose porcelain tiles in unglazed, matte or high polished finishes. Unglazed frost-proof tile is the best choice for outdoor use.
Non-porcelain or “ceramic” tile is typically manufactured from kiln-fired white or red clay and is used in both flooring and wall tile applications. It is usually finished with a durable glaze that carries the pattern and color. Non-porcelain tiles can be applied in light to moderate traffic areas. They are, however, less frost resistant as they have a relatively high water absorption rate, and compared with porcelain tiles, they are more prone to chipping and wear.
The Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) rating scale indicates the manufacturer’s recommended areas of use for their tile. Generally speaking, PEI 2 tile will feature vibrant colors, metallic elements and high gloss levels, while PEI 5 tile will feature abrasion resistance and any aesthetic elements are a secondary consideration. PEI ratings range from 0 to 5 and are classified as follows:
- 0: No foot traffic; suitable for walls only
- 1: Very light foot traffic; designed for spas and master baths
- 2: Light traffic; suitable for bedrooms and bathrooms
- 3: Light to moderate traffic; most residential areas excluding entry areas and kitchens
- 4: Moderate to heavy traffic
- 5: Heavy traffic
In terms of sealers, you may want to apply a penetrating sealer on grout joints or unglazed tile. This type of sealer is a stain-resistant invisible shield that is absorbed into the surface. It is not necessary to put sealer on glazed tile as it is already stain proof.
