{"id":4339,"date":"2021-02-03T20:45:47","date_gmt":"2021-02-03T20:45:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tilebar.com\/learn\/?p=4339"},"modified":"2024-01-25T08:57:28","modified_gmt":"2024-01-25T08:57:28","slug":"the-power-of-porcelain-tiles-choosing-a-tile-based-on-performance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tilebar.com\/learn\/the-power-of-porcelain-tiles-choosing-a-tile-based-on-performance\/","title":{"rendered":"The Power of Porcelain Tiles: Choosing a Tile Based on Performance"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

There are many reasons why a person chooses a tile. At the top of that list, you will find, what it looks like, followed by price, availability, and whether it is the right type of tile for the installation. All these factors play a role in tile selection, but once you like the look of a tile, how can you determine if it is the right tile for your project? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most important factor to consider when choosing a tile is its use. To determine this use, just ask: Where is the tile going to be installed? A backsplash will need to be cleanable, while a shower floor will need to have slip resistance. A family room will want an impact-resistant construction, while an exterior wall will need to weather the elements. The location of your tile, and subsequently what tile you choose for that location, will determine how well the tile will perform. This performance is the key to your tile installation\u2019s success. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now that you know performance is important, you can easily find options that work for your space. There are two types of tile that are the most common: ceramic and porcelain. Both have a multitude of looks, options, and price ranges, but when you compare the two based on performance, there is a clear winner. (Want to see a comparison? Check out: Porcelain vs Ceramic Tiles: What\u2019s the Difference<\/a>?). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Porcelain tile delivers the durability and versatility that can meet the demands of everyday life. It is harder, denser, and more stain-resistant than ceramic and can be installed in a multitude of areas, both interior and exterior. This makes porcelain the most sensible, performance-driven choice for most of your tile projects. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s explore why porcelain is the smart choice for projects where performance matters: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Durability<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Porcelain tiles are known for their ability to withstand heavy wear and tear. Not only are they the top choice for most commercial spaces like airports, lobbies, and other high traffic areas, but they are also becoming more popular in residential settings. Family life, including kids and pets, can ask a lot of a floor or wall surface, and porcelain delivers years of performance while maintaining its original appearance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For a greater ability to withstand heavy traffic, look at double-loaded porcelain<\/strong>. These tiles have not one, but two layers of porcelain, that are baked together longer and pressed together harder than a regular porcelain tile, offering a higher level of durability. Take a look at the NewTech Bianco 12×24\u201d Double Loaded Matte Porcelain Tile<\/a> for an example. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Offering a fashion-forward look to a tech-forward tile, the NewTech Collection can be used for residential spaces<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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The NewTech is a double-loaded porcelain tile that’s also perfect for commercial spaces with high-traffic areas<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Stain Resistance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Porcelain tiles offer incredible stain resistance thanks to their non-porous construction. Spills and other messes are no match for the easily cleanable surface. This makes porcelain a great option for kitchen floors, backsplashes (if you’re deciding on a backsplash, read this first<\/a>), and anywhere else where food or other messy activities are found. Also, make sure to select a grout that is also easily cleanable. Check out: Guide to Types of Grout & How to Choose<\/a> to find the perfect complement to your tile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cleanliness and Hygiene<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The same non-porous properties of porcelain that help with stain resistance also make it an excellent choice for areas that require a higher level of hygienic cleanliness. Already the tile of choice in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, assisted living facilities, and clinics, it is also a great option for keeping your space clean and free of unwanted bacteria and germs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Color Performance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The construction of many porcelain tiles makes them more resistant to damage, but accidents do happen. When a tile experiences a scratch or chip in its finish, there are a few different options that help porcelain tiles camouflage these issues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n