ceramic vs porcelain tile

Ceramic tile is primarily made from clay mixed with other minerals and water. This product is then "baked" with heat to create solid tile. The top of the tile is then sealed or glazed. The glazing provides the color and texture of the tile. Ceramic tile is very durable and well suited for most residential indoor needs.

Price on both ceramic and porcelain tile is usually dictated by texture and color variation.

Porcelain tile is primarily made from finely ground sand. The manufacturing process includes high pressure and extremely high temperature. The end result is a very dense material with a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%. Porcelain tiles also goes through a final glazing process, and is well suited for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Porcelain tiles are also available in a "Color Body" or "Through Body", this means that the color goes completely through the tile, making chipped tiles less noticeable.