Porcelain Tiles –
a Flooring Stand-Out
When looking for the most durable tile for your flooring, a good choice is often porcelain. Porcelain is one of the toughest floor tiles that you can buy on the market. These hard, dense tiles can withstand stress, making them a great choice in both homes and commercial environments. A common misconception is that porcelain and ceramic tile are one and the same. Although they do share some characteristics, the two are actually quite different.
Porcelain tiles typically feature a more polished look, offering a sheen to the floor. These tiles are impervious to water, making them a popular choice for a bathroom or other high-moisture area. Porcelain tiles tout a less than 0.5% moisture absorption rate, making this an optimal flooring choice in areas that are bound to see water.
One unique characteristic of porcelain tiles is that they are fire resistant. Under normal circumstances, porcelain does not burn. Porcelain tile flooring can actually restrict flames if a fire does break out.
Low Maintenance, Stain-Resistant Tile
Porcelain is one of the most resilient choices in flooring and can withstand areas with high foot traffic. It is easy to clean and a great solution for a kid-friendly flooring option. For the most part, porcelain tiles are scratch-resistant and prevent mold and mildew growth.
There are a variety of porcelain tile designs available to choose from, some of which can actually look like natural stones such as granite or limestone.
Porcelain tiles can be used for interior and exterior flooring. They are frost resistant, making them able to withstand even the cold and snow of New England’s winters. Despite their shiny appearance, the glaze on porcelain tiles actually contains an abrasive grit, giving this flooring a slip-resistant attribute.
While more costly than their ceramic counterparts, porcelain tiles can last and look great for decades if properly cared for, making this type of flooring a true investment.