If you’re in the midst of renovating your home, you’ve probably found yourself overwhelmed by the different tile options. While it’s tempting to just consider aesthetics, you'll also want to consider the type of tile you’re choosing. Many homeowners in Singapore go immediately for homogeneous tiles, which is really a specific type of porcelain tile, but there are other options out there that might work better for you. Essentially, you have two main types of tile to choose from: ceramic and porcelain. So which one truly suits your vibe? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences to help you make the right choice when you hit up the tile shop.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:900/1200;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/10d1c6c6-dbd5-437e-bf30-073f9dc4f3cc-blob" width="900" height="1200"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/knock-knock-studio">Knock Knock Studio</a>&nbsp;<h3>How they are made</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Made from a more refined clay and other materials that are mixed to form a very fine consistency, &nbsp;and later pressed under extreme pressure. Fired at a higher temperature for an extended period. Result: Less porous, denser tile.&nbsp;</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Made from a less refined clay, sand and other raw materials, and fired at a lower temperature. Result: More porous, less dense tile.&nbsp;</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>Durability&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Tougher and can handle heavy foot traffic, great for busy areas of the home like the kitchen and foyer, great for those with kids or pets.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Less tough and lighter, and therefore more suited for walls rather than floors. More likely to crack when a heavy object is dropped on it.</li></ul>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:800/1200;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/b0f7d95b-9bdd-4ce3-8188-2a6d381091ea-blob" width="800" height="1200"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/comfort-home-renovation">Comfort Home Interior&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;<h3>Ease of installation</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Because of their density, cutting them incorrectly can lead to breakage or rough edges, leading to more tile wastage.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Easier to install. They are much easier to cut or drill into since they are softer, so if you have intricate designs or you would like to DIY, they are a more suitable choice.</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>Water absorption &nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Absorbs less water (less than 0.5%), making it perfect for wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and even balconies.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Absorbs more water (up to 3-7%), which means it can be more prone to staining and moisture damage over time. While it’s fine for walls and drier areas, it’s not ideal for consistently wet zones. Also, if your home faces the sea or is near the coast, I would definitely recommend going for porcelain tiles.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:800/1200;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/97d26674-c272-4b97-a018-69dbb64389ef-blob" width="800" height="1200"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/__typeface/">Typeface</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<blockquote>Searching for an interior designer for your home renovation? You've come to the right place. Just fill out the form <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/get-free-quote">here</a> and we'll connect you with up to 6 recommended firms that fit your needs perfectly.</blockquote>&nbsp;<h3>Appearance</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: There are many types of porcelain tiles to choose from, but they generally fall into three main categories: glazed porcelain tiles, unglazed porcelain tiles (also known as homogeneous tiles), and inkjet porcelain tiles. If you're looking for a tile that closely resembles marble or wood, inkjet porcelain tiles are the way to go, as they offer a more realistic appearance. Homogeneous tiles can be quite handy if you accidentally crack one, since the design runs through the entire tile, including the surface. Glazed porcelain tiles are a popular (and common) option, featuring a surface layer with an additional glaze that showcases the tile’s pattern and design.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: The surface of a ceramic tile feels different from the rest of the tile and is usually a bit more powdery on the back. Thanks to modern technology, ceramic tiles can often mimic the look of porcelain tiles, though their performance does set them apart. If you like the handmade, vintage look, ceramic tiles are a good option.</li></ul>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1464/976;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/14858ecd-dad3-471c-9f64-b674ef73ae56-blob" width="1464" height="976"></figure>Image: <a href="https://malford.com.sg/">Malford</a>&nbsp;<h3>Cost</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Pricier, but their durability may make them more valuable in the long term. Prices usually start from around S$3 psf.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Generally the more budget-friendly option. Ceramic tiles start from around S$1.5 psf.</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>Maintenance</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Require less maintenance because they’re more resistant to stains and moisture. Plus they hold up to scratches and scuffs better.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Might need more frequent cleaning due to their higher porosity. They’re more prone to absorbing spills.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:800/1200;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/43881234-275b-4305-86ea-37d136afb02b-blob" width="800" height="1200"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/fifth-avenue-interior">Fifth Avenue Interior</a>&nbsp;

What's the Difference Between Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles?

We are here to help!