What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles?

Porcelain is a type of ceramic, so there are similarities and differences between the two clay-based materials. You can't go wrong by installing either kind of durable tile flooring in a kitchen, bathroom, mudroom, or other moisture-prone areas. Both materials can be placed on a floor or wall, so design possibilities are endless. Nielsen Bros & Sons provides a large assortment of tile, and we make it easy for you to view what we have to offer. We have showrooms in three locations: Bellevue, Auburn, and Lynnwood, Washington. We also boast a mobile showroom that can bring the flooring to your home.

Ceramic tiles

Ceramic tiles are made of a coarse natural earthen clay that is hardened in a high-temperature kiln. Standard sizes vary from 2 x 2 to 24 x 24. Tiles, which present a clean-line appearance, tend to come in neutral-toned solid colors or simple patterns. While ceramic is porous, glazed ceramic repels water well. This flooring material is less costly than porcelain.

Porcelain tiles

Porcelain tile is made of refined kaolin clay and hardened at higher temperatures than ceramic tile. With this composition, porcelain is harder and denser than ceramic. It is also inherently waterproof. Tile size varies from mosaic to large format, and designs are colorful and varied. Some porcelain tile designs mimic hardwood and stone flooring.

Tile installation in the Seattle area

Tile installation is a job that is best left to the pros. In particular, it takes skill and special tools to cut porcelain, which is brittle and dense. Ceramic and porcelain tiles adhere to the cement board, and then the joints between the tiles are filled with grout. The installation team at Nielsen Bros & Sons can handle any tile project. We have been serving the Seattle, Washington area for over 70 years, including Tacoma, Edmonds, and Bothell. Visit our tile store in Lynnwood, Washington, or in Bellevue or Auburn, to get your project started.