There are several types of finishes that can be used in a project, according to the use that will be given to the space where you will place these finishes is how you should determine which is the most suitable.

Among the most common finishes for floors or wall coverings we have ceramic and porcelain, these two materials are very similar and sometimes difficult to differentiate. That is why today we will talk more in detail about these materials and what is the most appropriate use for each one.

CERAMICS:

It is a product that is mostly composed of reddish clay, which is placed a glazed or matte finish on top. It has medium or low resistance to impact and temperature changes, and is also highly fragile to breakage, which reduces its useful life.

Ceramic has a high level of water absorption, due to the temperature at which this product is manufactured, making it a more suitable product for indoor use. At the moment of installation, it is important to take into account that with ceramic tiles it is recommended to use larger size ties (3mm-5mm) since the edges are rounded and not rectified.

Due to its fragility, it is possible to find ceramic tiles in small sizes and up to a maximum of 50-60 cm, because of this we can see that ceramic tiles are widely used in bathroom and kitchen finishes. In terms of weight and hardness, due to the type of manufacture, ceramics are lighter and easier to cut with simple cutters, facilitating the installation and reducing the time of execution in the projects.

With respect to the finish, ceramic tile can be a little more porous and the details look more artificial, but compared to other materials there is a variety of colors and textures and its prices are quite economical, as well as the glues for its placement.

PORCELAIN TILE:

It is a product manufactured by mixing different materials and minerals exposed to high temperatures giving it a grayish or whitish finish. The temperature to which it is exposed gives this material high resistance and durability, as well as low water absorption, making it an ideal material for exterior and high traffic spaces.

Due to their low absorption levels, the materials used for their installation are different from the conventional and more expensive ones. For its manipulation it is necessary that the workmanship is experienced. Special cutting tools such as polishers and diamond discs are necessary due to its high hardness and greater thickness.

The edges of porcelain tile are mostly straight, thus reducing the number of joints and in some cases, when the pieces have a rectification certificate, it can be placed without spacers, giving more delicacy and elegance to the finishes.

Thanks to its special and characteristic manufacture, it allows to count on presentation of diverse sizes that go from 60 cm to large pieces of 2 to 3 meters. By having finer and more detailed finishes, porcelain tile allows for a more accurate resemblance to natural materials such as wood, stone or marble. Likewise, its finishes are more durable and have a longer useful life.

In view of the above, it is to be expected that the price of porcelain tile will be higher, compared to ceramic, so it is advisable to analyze the use that will be given to it, the conditions to which it will be exposed and above all the budget we have for its acquisition.

Both materials can be found in specialized stores and hardware stores, likewise these stores can give you options and recommendations if you are still not sure which one you need for your project.

We hope this blog has been of your interest, remember that if you need more advice, do not hesitate to contact us, in aRRquitectos we have professional experts in finishes available to help you.