Porcelain and ceramic tile are made from fired clay-based materials, but porcelain must meet defined water-absorption criteria. Porcelain is commonly selected for demanding floors, exterior applications, wet areas, and high-traffic spaces because of its density and broad range of commercial formats. Nonporcelain ceramic tile is often used on walls and in lighter-duty applications, although some ceramic floor tiles are commercially rated. The word porcelain does not automatically mean every product is suitable for every location. Slip resistance, breaking strength, abrasion resistance, thickness, edge condition, size, installation system, and maintenance must also be considered. The tile manufacturer's use classification and technical data should determine whether the product is appropriate for the project.
Key considerations
- commercial porcelain vs ceramic tile, porcelain tile commercial use, ceramic tile commercial flooring
- porcelain tile, ceramic tile, commercial tile
- water resistance, heavy traffic, abrasion resistance
- dense body, multiple formats, commercial classifications