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Ceramic vs. porcelain tile: what's the difference?

Porcelain and ceramic tile share many similarities, but they have different strengths.

• Ceramic tile is made from natural clay and fired at high temperatures. It's durable, affordable, and available in a wide variety of styles, making it ideal for many residential floors and walls.
• Porcelain tile is denser and fired at even higher temperatures, making it more resistant to moisture, wear, and heavy traffic. It's an excellent option for bathrooms, kitchens, mudrooms, and other demanding spaces.

We'll help you compare both materials and recommend the best option for your project.

Choosing between glazed and unglazed tile

Choosing the right finish is just as important as selecting the material.

• Glazed tile has a protective coating that adds color, pattern, and stain resistance. It's easy to clean and available in finishes ranging from glossy to matte.
• Unglazed tile has no surface coating, giving it a more natural appearance and additional slip resistance. It's often selected for rustic designs, commercial spaces, and some outdoor applications.

What tile size should you choose?

Tile size plays a big role in the overall look of a room.

Large-format tiles create a clean, modern appearance with fewer grout lines, helping many spaces feel larger and more open. Smaller tiles are ideal for shower floors, backsplashes, and decorative accents where additional detail is desired.

Choosing the right size depends on the room, layout, and design style you're trying to achieve.

Which tile shape fits your style?

Tile comes in a wide variety of shapes that can dramatically change the personality of your space.

Popular options include classic square tiles, rectangular plank tiles, subway tile, hexagons, penny rounds, and other geometric designs. Different tile installation patterns, such as herringbone or stacked layouts, can also create a completely different visual effect.

We'll help you select a shape and layout that complements your home's style.

How do you choose the right tile color?

Color sets the tone for your entire room.

Light colors like white, cream, and soft gray create an open, airy feel, while darker shades add depth and contrast. Warm beige and brown tones create a welcoming atmosphere, while wood-look and natural stone-look tile provide timeless style with the durability of porcelain or ceramic.

Whether you prefer modern, traditional, or farmhouse design, we'll help you find a color that ties your space together.

Where can tile be installed?

Tile isn't limited to floors. Its durability and moisture resistance make it one of the most versatile surfaces in your home.

Tile works beautifully in:

• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Laundry rooms
• Mudrooms
• Entryways
• Hallways
• Living areas
• Shower walls
• Shower floors
• Kitchen backsplashes
• Accent walls
• Fireplace surrounds

Whether you're updating a single room or creating a cohesive design throughout your home, tile offers endless possibilities.

How do you clean and maintain tile flooring?

Keeping tile flooring looking its best is simple.

Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit, then damp mop using a manufacturer-approved cleaner. Wipe up spills promptly and avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage grout or certain finishes.

Grout may benefit from occasional deep cleaning and periodic sealing, depending on the product. Adding entry mats and felt furniture pads also helps protect your floors and keep them looking new.

With routine care, tile flooring can provide decades of dependable performance.

Frequently asked questions about tile flooring

Is porcelain tile better than ceramic tile?

Porcelain tile is denser and more water-resistant, while ceramic tile is often more affordable. The best choice depends on where the tile will be installed.

Is tile flooring waterproof?

Porcelain tile and many ceramic tiles are highly water-resistant. Professional tile installation and properly sealed grout help protect the floor system from moisture.

Can tile be installed on walls?

Yes. Tile is commonly used for shower walls, backsplashes, fireplace surrounds, and decorative accent walls.

Does tile flooring increase home value?

Quality tile flooring is a desirable home upgrade because it's durable, attractive, and built to last.

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