Congratulations! You have finally reached that exciting stage in your bathroom renovation – you have picked out the dream bathtub, the sleek vanity and the perfect light fixtures. But amidst the whirl of design decisions, a crucial one looms: what about the walls and floors? You know you need tiles but should you opt for ceramic or porcelain tiles? Is there a clear winner? Does budget play a role? What potential pitfalls should I look out for?
Fear not! With over 40 years in the tiling industry, there is not much we haven’t come across here at EMC Tiles. This quick guide to ceramic and porcelain tiles will help you choose the perfect tiles to transform your bathroom into a stunning oasis for many years to come.
What Are Ceramic Tiles?
Ceramic tiles boast a rich history, dating back millennia to ancient civilisations like the Egyptians and Mesopotamians. These early pioneers used rudimentary clay tiles for both practical and decorative purposes. Fast forward to the present day, and ceramic tiles remain a popular choice for bathroom walls, accents and even some floors.
Composition of Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are made from a mixture of clay, minerals and water. They are fired at lower temperatures than porcelain tiles, which makes them less dense and slightly more porous. Ceramic tiles often have a glaze that adds colour and pattern, as well as a protective layer.
Characteristics and Qualities of Ceramic Tiles
- Budget-Friendly Option: Ceramic tiles are generally more affordable than porcelain tiles, which makes them an attractive option for those seeking a stylish bathroom makeover without breaking the bank.
- Ease of Installation: Lighter and easier to cut, ceramic tiles are often preferred for DIY projects. Its slightly softer composition allows for easier customisation and on-site adjustments, making it a good choice for those tackling a bathroom renovation by themselves. You can cut most ceramic tiles with a manual tile cutter.
- Versatility: Don’t be fooled by the price tag! Ceramic boasts a stunning array of designs, colours, and patterns. From classic subway tiles to intricate mosaics and playful geometrics, ceramic tiles cater to a variety of design preferences.
- Comfort: These popular tiles are slightly softer and warmer underfoot compared to porcelain tiles.
The Achilles Heel of Ceramic Tiles
While ceramic offers undeniable advantages, it is not without weaknesses. Its Achilles’ heel lies in its water absorption. Being slightly porous, ceramic tiles can absorb moisture, which can lead to issues like staining, mildew growth and even cracking over time in high-moisture areas. Additionally, ceramic tiles can be susceptible to chipping, especially on edges, if not handled carefully. Glazed ceramic tiles are more resistant to abrasion than unglazed tiles.
Can I Use Ceramic Tiles in Bathrooms?
Having said all this, ceramic tiles remain a popular choice for bathroom design. They can be used for:
- Walls: Glazed ceramic tiles, such as these stunning Cottage Jade Ceramic Wall Tiles are commonly used on bathroom walls, including shower walls, due to their aesthetic versatility and ease of installation.
- Backsplashes: Often used for kitchen splashbacks, ceramic tiles provide a decorative element that is easy to clean.
- Accent Pieces: Ceramic tiles, such as these Atrium Kios Gris Cube Gloss Textured Wall Tiles are frequently used for decorative accents and mosaic designs, adding a personalised touch to bathrooms.
- Floors: Ceramic floor tiles may not be as durable or water-resistant as porcelain tiles but the secret lies in the PEI rating.
What are PEI Ratings?
Not all ceramic tiles are created equal, especially when it comes to durability. Here’s where the PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating comes in. This handy system helps you gauge a tile’s suitability for different levels of foot traffic. The scale ranges from 0 to 5, with 0 indicating suitability for walls only and 5 signifying the most durable option for heavy traffic areas.
Most ceramic floor tiles fall within the PEI 3 to 4 range, making them ideal for light to moderate-traffic areas in your home, such as bathrooms and bedrooms. Make sure to check the specific PEI rating listed on the product details page before making your final selection.
While ceramic tiles are an incredibly versatile and affordable choice in residential and commercial interior design, understanding the material’s composition, strengths and weaknesses can help you choose the perfect spot for them and learn where to find an alternative.
What Are Porcelain Tiles?
Although porcelain tiles are a type of ceramic tile, some key differences set them apart. They are made from a denser, more refined clay that is fired at even higher temperatures than ceramic. This intense heat creates a denser, much less porous material, making it the undisputed champion of bathrooms and outdoor uses.
Water Woes? No More!
Unlike its’ ceramic counterpart, porcelain boasts superior water resistance. With near-imperceptible water absorption, it is ideal for high-moisture areas like shower walls and bathroom floors. Say goodbye to worries about water damage, mould growth and unsightly stains. Porcelain provides peace of mind that comes with long-lasting durability.
Built to Last
Bathrooms endure daily wear and tear. Porcelain, with its exceptional hardness, stands up to the test of time. Heavy foot traffic, dropped toiletries, and even occasional spills – porcelain takes it all in its stride. This translates to a longer lifespan for your bathroom flooring and walls, saving you money on replacements in the long run.
Safety First
When it comes to the bathroom, safety is paramount. Porcelain offers a wider range of slip-resistant options. This textured surface provides excellent traction, particularly important in wet areas like showers and around bathtubs. With porcelain tiles, you can create a beautiful bathroom that is also a safe haven for everyone.
Design Versatility
Porcelain isn’t just about brawn! Available in a wide range of colours, patterns, and finishes, porcelain lets you create a bathroom that reflects your unique style. From sleek, modern marbles to rustic woodgrains and playful mosaics, porcelain can mimic the look of natural stone and materials without the same maintenance hassles. So, you can achieve the luxurious feel of a marble bathroom at a fraction of the cost.
Common Uses in Bathrooms
- Flooring: The durability and water resistance of porcelain floor tiles make them ideal for bathroom floors.
- Walls: Porcelain tiles can be used on walls to create a sleek, cohesive look.
- Showers: Due to their water resistance, they are perfect for shower walls and floors.
- Backsplashes: Porcelain tiles are also used for backsplashes, providing both practicality and style.
A Price to Pay
While porcelain boasts undeniable strengths, it does come with a higher price tag compared to ceramic. However, for many homeowners, the investment pays off in terms of durability, water resistance and overall longevity of this material.
DIY Dilemma
For those planning a DIY bathroom renovation, porcelain might present a challenge when it comes to cutting. Its hardness requires specialised tools and techniques. If you are tackling the project by yourself, consider hiring a professional tiler for a smoother installation process.
But Isn’t Porcelain Tile Slippery?
One common concern surrounding porcelain tiles is their potential for slipperiness. While it is true that polished or gloss porcelain tiles can be slippery when wet, the good news is that porcelain offers a wider range of slip-resistant options.
The key lies in the finish of the tiles:
- Polished or Gloss Finish: Polished or glossed porcelain tiles offer a sleek, reflective appearance but may be more prone to slipping, especially in wet areas like showers.
- Matt Finish: Matt finish tiles have a less reflective surface and provide better traction than polished options.
- Textured Tiles: This category encompasses a wide variety of surface textures, from subtle ripples to pronounced grooves. Textured porcelain tiles offer the highest level of slip resistance, making them ideal for shower floors, bathroom entrances, and other high-moisture areas.
- Understanding PEI Ratings: In addition to the finish, the PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating can also be a helpful indicator of a tile’s slip resistance. Higher PEI ratings (typically 4 or 5) often correspond to tiles with textured surfaces that offer better traction.
By understanding the fundamental differences and applications of porcelain and ceramic tiles, you can better assess which type aligns with your bathroom needs and preferences.
When to Choose Which Tile?
So, you have weighed the contenders in the ceramic vs. porcelain tile battleground. But which one emerges victorious for your bathroom renovation? Here’s a guide to help you choose the champion:
When Budget is a Consideration
Dreaming of a spa-like retreat without breaking the bank? Ceramic tiles can be your best friend. They are a cost-effective choice for areas with lower moisture exposure like shower walls, accent features, or even bathroom floors in low-traffic areas like a guest bathroom or en-suite space. With a vast array of designs and colours, you can create a beautiful and stylish bathroom that fits your budget.
For High Foot Traffic and Moisture
High-traffic areas like the main bathroom floor or a walk-in shower demand a champion of resilience. Enter the porcelain floor tile, such as these Creative Concrete Creacon Porcelain Floor Tiles. Its superior water resistance, exceptional hardness, and a wider range of slip-resistant options make it the clear winner for these zones. Porcelain tiles will withstand daily wear and tear, splashes, and spills, offering long-lasting performance and peace of mind. While the initial investment might be higher, porcelain’s durability translates to fewer replacements down the line, saving you money in the long run.
Design Dilemmas
When it comes to design, don’t get caught up in the porcelain vs. ceramic war. Both materials offer a vast selection of colours, patterns and finishes, allowing you to create a bathroom that reflects your unique style.
- Classic Elegance: For a timeless look, consider subway tiles in either ceramic or porcelain. They come in a variety of colours and finishes, making them a versatile choice for bathroom walls and splashbacks.
- Modern Marvels: Embrace a contemporary aesthetic with large format tiles in either material. These create a sleek, seamless look and are available in both ceramic and porcelain options.
- Natural Inspiration: Are you yearning for the warmth of wood or the luxurious feel of stone? Both porcelain and ceramic offer tiles that mimic these natural materials at a fraction of the cost and with lower maintenance requirements. These Futon Rustic Wood Effect Porcelain Floor Tiles are one of our current favourites.
Is There a Clear Winner?
Don’t let the ceramic vs. porcelain battle overshadow the true goal – creating a beautiful and practical bathroom.
Prioritise the right material based on the specific needs of each area. For high-traffic zones and moisture-prone surfaces, porcelain’s durability reigns supreme. In areas with lower moisture exposure ceramic offers a more budget-friendly option with stunning results.
Let EMC Tiles Help You with Your Bathroom Revamp
For over 40 years, we at EMC Tiles have been our customers’ trusted allies. We have been specialists in supplying quality ceramic & porcelain wall & floor tiles since 1979 and when it comes to bathroom tiles, there isn’t much we haven’t seen.
We offer a vast selection of both ceramic and porcelain tiles, catering to every taste and budget. From classic ceramic wall tiles in a variety of colours and finishes to a wide variety of porcelain floor tiles with exceptional durability and slip resistance, we have everything you need to create your dream bathroom.
Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and guide you through the selection process. We will help you find the perfect balance between style and practicality for your bathroom.
Visit our showroom today or browse our online tile selections. Let us help you transform your bathroom into a stunning haven.
