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Porcelain Tiles

Many people treat porcelain and ceramic tiles as being pretty much the same. They do, in fact, both come from the same ceramic family, are made for much the same materials and have a similar manufacturing process. But there are subtle differences that often make porcelain tiles the best choice for many situations.
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Why Porcelain Tiles are Superior

It is true that porcelain tiles can be slightly more expensive than ceramic versions. That’s because they go through a more extensive manufacturing process and that gives them certain advantages over ceramics.

Porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles look very similar, are installed in the same way and have mainly common uses. Both types of tile are made from clay that contains materials such as quartz, silicone and feldspar. However, for porcelain, the clay is much less coarse and tends to have a higher ratio of fine kaolin clay with some additives.

Porcelain tiles are fired at a higher temperature than ceramics, generally 2,200-2,500 degrees Fahrenheit against 1,650 degrees Fahrenheit for ceramic tiles. The result is that porcelain tiles are much harder, more durable and are able to withstand heavy foot traffic. That means they’re generally suitable for use as floor tiles as well as wall tiles while ceramics are normally only used for the latter.

H1: Porcelain Tiles from Melbourne — often the Best Choice

Because they are less dense than porcelain, ceramic tiles are more likely to crack and break. Additionally, they tend to be of different colour below the surface so that chips and cracks become clearly visible. Porcelain tiles, by contrast, have the same colour all the way through so chips are less obvious.

One of the main features of porcelain tiles as opposed to ceramic is that they have extremely low water absorption and so are perfect for use in kitchens and bathrooms where there is a lot of moisture. In order to be classified as porcelain, tiles must have an absorption rate of no greater than 0.5% and so are also ideal for exterior use.

Ceramic tiles are generally glazed to improve water resistance although this is not necessary for porcelain. This means you can obtain polished porcelain tiles for a shiny appearance or matte versions that are anti-slip and so more suitable for use on floors. Glazed ceramic tile however, are more prone to slips due to their shiny surface.

The Most Versatile of Tiles

In general, although porcelain tiles may be marginally more expensive, they are invariably a better investment. They’re more durable, water and heat resistant, easily cleaned and come in a wide range of patterns, colours and finishes. This even includes tiles that resemble wood and natural stone.

You can use porcelain tiles almost anywhere — indoors and outdoors, in wet or hot conditions, on walls, countertops and floors. Before buying porcelain floor tiles in Melbourne, however, you should check our extensive range for suitability. Floor tiles are generally thicker than those for use on walls and will be rated for use on floors.

All our tiles have guidance as to their features, use and particular suitability. If you have any doubts, get in touch and we’ll help you make the right choice because we want you to be totally satisfied with your purchase.
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3 products
  • Glen White Terrazzo Look Porcelain Tile
    Glen White Terrazzo Look Porcelain Tile - Yeomans Bagno Ceramiche
    Vendor
    Yeomans Bagno Ceramiche
    Regular price
    $49.00
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    $49.00
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  • Kierrastone White Stone Look Porcelain Tile
    Joslyn White Stone Look Porcelain Tile - Yeomans Bagno Ceramiche
    Vendor
    Yeomans Bagno & Ceramiche
    Regular price
    $55.00
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    $55.00
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  • Carrington White Stone Look Porcelain Tile
    Marlow White Stone Look Porcelain Tile - Yeomans Bagno Ceramiche
    Vendor
    Yeomans Bagno & Ceramiche
    Regular price
    $44.95
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    $44.95
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