Pro Tip: Porcelain vs. Ceramic

Which tile should you pick, and why?

Tile is tile, right? The short answer is yes. However, when trying to decide between porcelain and ceramic tiles, there are a few quick facts and tips you should know.

FACTS:

• Porcelain is harder than ceramic and typically costs more
• Ceramic usually costs less and has a top layer of glazing
• Porcelain has the same color throughout the tile - so if it chips, it's not so noticeable
  
• Ceramic has a top layer glazing, and if it chips, the different colored clay layer below shows, and is very noticeable
• Both Porcelain and Ceramic tiles are made of clay
• Both Porcelain and Ceramic tiles are suitable throughout the home in hot climates like the Cayman Islands, Southern United States, and the rest of the Caribbean.

PRO TIP:

If you are planning to install the tiles yourself, it's probably a better idea to buy ceramic, because they are easier to work with and standard tile cutting tools will work fine. Porcelain however, is hard and will not cooperate nicely with standard tools and additional equipment may be required.

Conversely, if you are planning to have a professional install the tiles, then buy porcelain if your budget permits!