We had picked a ceramic tile that was 1.20 a sq. ft. and ended up going with a porcelain tile that was 2.70 a sq. ft. . Is it really that much better?
Because they are fired at a higher temperature than ceramic tile, the manufacturers want us to believe they are more durable, have a higher breaking point and are tougher than granite. They also claim that it adds higher value to your home than ceramic tile does. Aestically, the advantage I see to porceline tile is more realistic replication of stone because of the way the color is all of the way through each piece consistently thus it just looks more like real stone than ceramic tile does. (And, I have even been fooled!)
When it comes to installing ceramic or porcelain tile in a shower, porcelain tile low absorption's rate make it a little bit better. It's low absorption rate also means the tile’s surface absorbs very little moisture, so spills that might otherwise leave a stain are easily wiped up with a damp cloth. Water and a mild soap are all that’s required for regular cleaning. - See more at:
Not really, I mean ceramic is more easy to break when not installed, but if installed correctly thay both stand strong and durable. to be honest with you, about 20 years ago all they used to use was ceramic and to this day I still remove that same ceramic tiles and boy do I struggle. I think its just a better way for companies to make more money. if you paid $2.70 thats not a bad deal, thats actually good. make sure your installer uses thinset(which is the bonding mortar)with acrylic additive, it bonds the tile a to the floor very well. (home depot sells versabond, good stuff.)
