Tile material terminology may be confusing at times. In general, most tiles commonly known as "ceramic tiles" can really be split into two different tile material groups - Porcelain and Ceramic (non-porcelain) tiles.
Ceramic tile starts their life as red or white clay which is then shaped into tiles and is fired in a kiln up to 2500° F. The higher the temperature, the stronger the tile will be. By its very nature, ceramic tile is porous. So a glaze must be applied to the tile and then the tile is fired again to harden the glaze. Sometimes, the glaze is applied before the clay is fired for the first time. Glazing adds durability and the glaze may also add color and pattern to the tile. Ceramic tiles work well for moderate or light traffic. Ceramic tile may also be more prone to water absorption, are often not frost resistant and may show faster signs of wear than porcelain tiles.
Porcelain tile is made of porcelain clays which allow for more dense and resilient tile. Unlike ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles have lower water absorption qualities making then frost resistant. Glazed porcelain tiles, due to their high durability, may be used for any application from light traffic to heavy commercial traffic. Since porcelain tiles have the color and pattern rough the entire body of the tile, they are also resistant to ware and work for any application, including commercial and industrial applications. Porcelain tiles are often available in a variety of finishes - matte, unglazed and high gloss polished finish.
