First, porcelain tiles are better for heated floors than ceramic tiles.
Both porcelain and ceramic tiles have a high level of thermal conductivity, allowing them to heat up faster and retain heat for longer.
However, porcelain tiles are known to be more efficient at conducting and retaining heat due to their lower thermal resistance, providing more even and comfortable heating across the floor surface.
Additionally, porcelain tiles have superior water resistance and durability, making them a more suitable choice for outdoor and wet room applications (pretty handy in a kitchen too).
Therefore, when considering heated floors, porcelain tiles are the preferred option due to their efficiency in conducting and retaining heat and superior water resistance.
Ceramic vs Porcelain Tiles: What You Need to Know
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are very similar — so much so that many people don’t realise there’s a difference between the two.
It is essential to be aware of these differences when investing in a radiant floor heating solution. This will allow you to choose the best tiles for your heated floors.
As you consider porcelain and ceramic tiles for your floors, remember that both tiles are created with baked clay. However, ceramic tiles are made with darker clays, while porcelain tiles are created using white and strengthened with other materials, such as quartz or sand.
Ceramic tiles sometimes offer more versatility because their design is adhered to the surface, while any finish applied to a porcelain tile will seep through the materials.
Some facts to keep in mind about porcelain and ceramic tiles include:
| Tile Type | Absorption (Lower is Better) | Durability (Higher is Better) | Cost (Lower is Better) | Usage | Ease of Cutting (Higher is Better) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain Tiles | 2/10 (Low absorption rate) | 9/10 (High durability) | 9/10 (More expensive) | 8/10 (Indoor & outdoor use) | 4/10 (Relatively difficult to cut) |
| Ceramic Tiles | 6/10 (Higher absorption rate) | 7/10 (Good durability) | 6/10 (More affordable) | 6/10 (Primarily indoor use) | 8/10 (Easier to cut) |
Remember that tiles are only considered true porcelain if certified by an outside agency.
The agency will consider the absorption levels of the tile when determining if it upholds the standards of accurate porcelain material.
Porcelain vs Ceramic Tiles – Price Comparison
| Tile Type | Price Range per Square Foot (Uninstalled) | Average Cost to Install Heated Floor per Square Foot |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | $0.50 – $40.00 | $2.00 – $20.00 |
| Porcelain | $2.00 – $63.00+ | $2.75 – $27.50 |
