What is the difference between porcelain stoneware and floor tiles

Experts in the field of interior decoration and renovation of premises agree that the choice of material for flooring is a very responsible matter and should be approached very thoughtfully. After all, it is the flooring that is subjected to the maximum load and least of all insured against unpleasant surprises, such as sharp heels, spilled cups of coffee, falling heavy objects, etc. Some of the best flooring options are ceramic tiles and porcelain stoneware. Which of them should be preferred? Before answering this question, it is necessary to understand the features of these two materials, the nuances of their use and find out how tiles differ from porcelain stoneware.

What is this article about

Ceramic tile

This is one of the oldest building materials, which is obtained by mixing different types of clays, mineral additives, and inorganic compounds. Ceramic tiles are found in graves that date back to the Stone Age. Why has ceramics remained at the peak of polarity for thousands of years and has not gone out of fashion? The reason lies in its many advantages:

1. Strength. Despite the relatively small thickness, ceramics is a very durable material and is able to withstand a load many times greater than a concrete screed. It should be noted that only those ceramic tiles that have been laid in compliance with all technological standards and requirements have such properties.
2. Rigidity. Tiles cannot be bent. It is able to maintain its shape even under very severe loads. The stiffness parameter of the product increases in proportion to its thickness.
3. Color fastness. Ceramic tile flooring is able to retain its original color even with very long use.
4. Fire resistance. Ceramics is absolutely non-combustible material. It not only does not burn, but also significantly prevents the spread of fire and does not emit any harmful fumes.
5. Environmental friendliness. The material is made from natural raw materials. Therefore, its environmental friendliness and absolute safety for humans cannot be in doubt.
6. Hygiene. The tile is not whimsical in leaving and possesses high chemical firmness. It can be washed using any household cleaners. Any contamination is removed from its surface elementarily. Exemplary hygienic properties allow the use of this material in rooms with the most stringent sanitary requirements. High-quality ceramics is also good because it has no pores. This means that harmful microorganisms will not have the opportunity to reproduce.
7. Decorative attraction. Ceramic tiles are presented on the market with a truly limitless range of types that can amaze the imagination with an abundance of colors, patterns and textures. This makes it possible to choose a harmonious option for any style and color scheme of the interior.

This is an impressive list of the advantages of ceramic tiles - the best proof that she deservedly owns the laurels of the best material for finishing the floor. As for the shortcomings, according to ceramic tile manufacturers, they simply do not exist. But in fairness, one point should be noted: in rooms with heavy pedestrian traffic, the pattern on the tiles may eventually be erased and, under mechanical impact, the tiles may crack and split.

Porcelain stoneware

This is a new generation material. It was developed in Italy relatively recently - a little over 30 years ago. In its composition, porcelain stoneware is practically no different from tiles. But the manufacturing techniques of these two materials are different. The main difference lies in the fact that in the manufacture of porcelain stoneware, coloring pigments are added directly to the raw mix, which allows you to get a tile that is colored throughout its thickness. Whereas, ceramics are colored only on the surface in the form of a decorative enamel layer.

Thanks to this feature, it is very easy to distinguish porcelain stoneware from ceramic tiles. Just look at the side cut. The first one will have a uniform color and texture, the second one will have only the outer surface painted.

It is the uniformity of color throughout the thickness and exemplary strength that determines the exceptional wear resistance of porcelain stoneware flooring and is its main advantage. In addition, the following advantages of this finishing material can be noted:

• exemplary hardness;
• almost zero hygroscopicity;
• truly phenomenal durability;
• absolute environmental safety;
• excellent frost resistance.

The disadvantages of the material include:

• impressive weight, which can complicate the process of transportation and installation;
• complexity in processing - porcelain stoneware is more difficult to cut and process than ceramic tiles;
• more expensive price;
• a relatively small assortment of species, patterns and colors.

Which of the two materials to choose?

And so, porcelain stoneware or floor tiles, which is better? The key point in choosing between these materials is the operating conditions of the future flooring. For facing the floor of unheated rooms and open loggias and terraces, porcelain stoneware is the best solution. Tiles are less resistant to temperature contrasts and adverse climatic factors. A beautiful tile is well suited for the kitchen and bathroom, which can give the interior of these rooms a special charm. For rooms with high pedestrian traffic, the best option would be wear-resistant and durable porcelain stoneware.

Experts do not recommend using glossy tiles as flooring for passers-by and baths. In the first case, their mirror surface can be scratched by sand brought in from the street with shoes and the floor will quickly lose its luxurious shine. In the second, a slippery glossy surface can cause falls and injuries.