Tile is the premier choice for kitchens and bathrooms in Athens, GA, due to its moisture resistance. But when you are ready to select, you face the fundamental choice: Ceramic vs. Porcelain.
Both are excellent, but they have key differences that affect performance and price. Carpets Unlimited, your complete flooring source since 1996, helps you decide which material is best for your unique needs.
Porcelain Tile: The Ultimate Performer
Porcelain is made from a finer, denser clay mixture than ceramic, and it is fired at much higher temperatures. This makes it the tougher, less porous option.
Pros: It has a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%, making it nearly waterproof. It is denser, harder, and more durable, making it highly resistant to scratching, cracking, and chipping. It is the best choice for heavy-traffic areas and any space where high humidity or standing water is a risk.
Cons: It is heavier, more expensive, and more difficult for installers to cut.
Best Use: High-traffic kitchens, master bathrooms, large commercial spaces.
Ceramic Tile: The Versatile Value
Ceramic tile is made from a coarser clay and is fired at lower temperatures. It is the more traditional and generally more affordable option.
Pros: It is softer, making it easier for installers to cut and install (which can lower labour costs). It comes in a vast range of colours, patterns, and sizes.
Cons: It is more porous than porcelain (higher water absorption rate) and is slightly less durable, making it a bit more susceptible to chipping in high-impact areas.
Best Use: Walls, backsplashes, light-traffic guest bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
Find Your Perfect Tile Flooring at Carpets Unlimited in Athens, GA
Both ceramic and porcelain tiles offer incredible style and add lasting value to your home. The choice ultimately depends on the specific demands of the room.
Visit our Mohawk Color Center® at Carpets Unlimited to explore these durable, high-fashion options and pick up your Consumer Style Guide. As a family and veteran-owned business, we ensure you receive professional advice and installation to match the quality of your chosen tile.
