Porcelain and ceramic tiles are two of the most popular choices for floors and walls, but understanding the distinctions between them can help you pick the perfect material for your project. With so many styles, colors, and performance differences, understanding which tile suits your project is key. Whether you’re retiling a bathroom, renovating a kitchen backsplash, or refreshing your entryway, knowing how each tile type performs will guide you to the best decision.
L&L Flooring stands out in Nashville as the ultimate choice for homeowners and businesses who demand top-tier flooring and flawless installation. As a locally owned company with decades of combined industry experience, we offer an extensive selection of premium materials, from porcelain and ceramic tile to hardwood and natural stone, backed by personalized showroom and in-home consultations to match your style and needs. With flexible financing options, hands-on design support, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, L&L Flooring makes transforming your Nashville home both effortless and rewarding.
What is Ceramic Tile?
Ceramic tile is made from a mixture of red or white clay, other minerals, and water-based glazes, then shaped and fired at lower temperatures than porcelain tile. This makes it slightly more porous, and best for indoor use where there is minimal moisture.
Ceramic tile advantages:
- Affordability: Because of its low firing temperature, ceramic is often more budget-friendly than other tiling options.
- Easy Cutting: Because ceramic cuts easily and evenly, it’s simpler to trim for mosaics or rounded grout lines.
- Design Flexibility: Available in countless colors, patterns, and finishes from glossy to matte. Ceramic tiles also allow for intricate motifs by implementing hand-painting and decals.
Contact L&L Flooring to view our expansive tile gallery and receive a free design consultation.
What is Porcelain Tile?
Porcelain tile is made from a finer, more purified clay and is fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tile. This makes porcelain denser, less porous, and more durable than other tiling options.
Porcelain tile advantages:
- Strength: Porcelain’s density and durability make it perfect for busy areas. It can withstand heavy foot traffic and resist chips and cracks better than most ceramic tiles.
- Water Resistance: Porcelain tiles have an extremely low absorption rate, making it perfect for bathrooms, outdoor patios, or any areas that are frequently exposed to moisture.
- Design Flexibility: Just like ceramic, porcelain tiles come in a wide variety of finishes. They can even include textured surfaces for improved slip resistance.
Key Differences
When you compare porcelain and ceramic tiles at a tile store, a few crucial differences stand out:
- Cost: Porcelain typically commands a higher price point than ceramic tile, but due to its low absorption rate and strength, it can yield better long-term value.
- Installation Requirements: Ceramic tile is often easier to install than porcelain tile. Porcelain often requires a flatter substrate and specialized tools to cut due to its hardness, while ceramic tiles can be more forgiving and flexible during installation.
- Applications: Porcelain tiles thrive in any room or environment, including outdoors. It is perfect for any place prone to moisture, unlike ceramic tiles, which perform best in dry, indoor conditions.
Visit L&L Flooring, your Nashville tile store, to compare samples and get professional design advice. Visit our website or call us at (615) 844-3434 to schedule an estimate today!
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance extends the life and appearance of both porcelain and ceramic tiles:
- Routine Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove loose dirt. Follow up with mild, pH-neutral cleaners and a soft, damp towel to avoid damaging grout lines. Avoid acidic or abrasive products that can dull finishes.
- Grout Sealing: Reapplying grout sealant annually on ceramic tiles prevents moisture infiltration and staining. For porcelain tiles, this may only be necessary every other year.
- Stain Removal: Wiping spills immediately is important to protecting your tiles from acidic substances that can cause wear and tear. For stubborn stains, using a paste of baking soda and water can lift grease or discoloration without damaging the tile itself.
- Professional Maintenance: If you notice any chipping, cracking, or simply cannot remove a stain, it is best to contact the professionals at L&L Flooring for expert advice and deep cleaning.
Find Your Perfect Tile at L&L Flooring
At L&L Flooring, we’re proud to be Nashville’s go-to tile store for high-quality flooring and expert installation. Within our expansive Nashville tile store, we offer designer tile displays, sample take-homes, and color matching examples so that you can make an informed decision before committing to a complete flooring transformation. Our dedicated team ensures every project, from classic ceramic backsplashes to durable outdoor porcelain patios, meets your style and performance needs. Partner with L&L Flooring today to transform your home or business with superior flooring solutions in Nashville, Franklin, Hendersonville, and surrounding areas!
Ready to transform your floors? Contact L&L Flooring today and experience why homeowners and businesses across Nashville trust us for all their flooring needs. Visit us online or call us at (615) 844-3434 to get your free estimate today.