Pier Blue Porcelain Tile | Floor and Decor (2024)

FAQs

Does porcelain tile increase home value? ›

It can improve your house's appearance, make your floor more resistant to spills, and even make cleaning easier. When done right, it also increases your home's value!

Porcelain tile is one of the hardest materials available, harder even than natural stones, including granite. Porcelain is inherently scratch resistant and may even be called scratch-proof, though ceramic knives may cause damage.

Porcelain and ceramic tiles, made from clay materials, are fired at high temperatures. Achieving these high temperatures (which create denser, more durable products) is challenging and therefore contributes to higher costs.

A high-quality porcelain is often thicker – ⅜” to ½” thick in many cases, making it more durable. And whether a porcelain tile is glazed or not, steps are often taken to ensure a superior finish. This is why good quality porcelain can so closely resemble natural stone or even wood.

Although porcelain tile is extremely durable, it does occasionally chip, particularly around the edges. This may not be noticeable with through-body composition, but it is a concern. Porcelain tile is typically more expensive than ceramic and other popular flooring materials.

Porcelain tile is a slightly more durable tile flooring because it's fired at a higher temperature, making it stain and scratch-resistant. Like ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles can last 60 years or more with proper care. Keeping the grout clean is essential to keep the flooring long-term.

Porcelain floor tile is harder and denser. It's useful in high-traffic areas such as kitchens, mudrooms, hallways and living areas. Ceramic floor tiles can be more comfortable to walk on than porcelain tiles.

The slip resistance or anti slip levels of porcelain tiles is determined by their surface texture and finish. Contrary to what you have heard, not all porcelain tiles are really slippy when they are wet.

Use Sealant, Not Wax

Using wax on porcelain tiles might seem like the logical choice to protect them; however, wax is not the route you should choose.

Porcelain's high-temperature manufacturing process results in a dense, hard, and compact material that's extremely durable. In general, porcelain tiles and slabs are durable and won't crack, break, or chip when installed properly.

Is it better to use porcelain or ceramic tile? ›

For high-traffic or outdoor areas, porcelain will usually be the better choice because of its durability and moisture resistance. For areas with lighter foot traffic or projects where budget is a concern, ceramic tiles offer a cost-effective and attractive option.

What is the best grade of porcelain tile? Grade 5! Grade 5 porcelain tiles make up the top porcelain tile grade rating and are the toughest type of tile available, making them perfect for areas with heavy foot traffic and where durability is key.

Tile Thickness

The vast majority of porcelain tiles are 6mm to 10mm thick and a tile in this range will serve most purposes. Wall tiles typically range from 6 to 10mm thick. Mosaics and decorative wall products also range from 6 to 10mm thick to make combining them easier.

Hardwood flooring tends to have the highest return on investment. Refinishing hardwood and replacing old carpets are the best value-adds before a home sale.

Porcelain is more costly than ceramic, but more affordable than natural stone. While its durability can be beneficial, it can also make the tile trickier to install. The tile is extremely hard to cut through, requiring specialty tools.

Porcelain tile durability is at a high level because it is produced at higher temperatures and pressure. It is made from high-quality components that are highly resistant to scratches and stains, appealing to many business owners and those running rental properties if they need flooring in high-traffic areas.