Ceramic and porcelain tile flooring: the difference

It's important to know that there are many types of ceramic tiles. They each have their characteristics that make some better for specific installations than others; for example, some might be better as a floor tile, while some might be for wall use only. When you are remodeling, it’s vital to read labels thoroughly and speak in detail with the experts at the tile shop about the renovation. The right or wrong tile can seriously impact your project.

You’ll never go wrong with porcelain tile

A type of ceramic, porcelain is made of a non-porous clay, together with sand and glass. It's fired at higher temperatures than most ceramics, and that's important because it results in an ultra-durable and dense tile that's ideal for heavily trafficked floors in busy rooms. It's completely waterproof and can be used indoors or out with the ability to withstand any weather condition.

It also comes in countless colors and patterns and is often the preferred choice for wood or stone look tile. It's a large format tile, and the tile store will explain just how special it is that it's a through-body color. This is great as a floor tile indoors or out and on walls and shower/tub surrounds.

Ceramic tile: not just the 4 X 4 squares

Although those highly designed, glazed squares are what we often see on backsplashes, countertops, shower walls, and fireplace surrounds, they are also great for indoor moderately traffic floors. Other ceramics include mosaics, the tiny, durable, and often-glass coated decorative tiles that are now trending in bathrooms. Terra cottas are ideal for heavily trafficked floors with their beautiful reddish color, especially in rustic atmospheres. Listellos are bands of border tiles that are used as accents.  Subway tiles are often used on backsplashes but can be used on indoor, low traffic floors like the bedroom.

"You shouldn't have to wait to improve your home" is our motto, and that's why we can accommodate anyone who can't wait to get beautiful floors. Come in for a design consultation and to schedule your free in-home estimate for your tile flooring upgrade. Tim Hogan's Dalton GA Carpet Outlet has two locations: Fort Worth & Grapevine, TX, and we service Southlake & Haltom City.