Porcelain tiles are a popular choice for modern homes and commercial spaces alike. Known for their durability, low maintenance, and versatile designs, these tiles combine practicality with style. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about porcelain tiles, from their composition and uses to installation tips and maintenance.

What Are Porcelain Tiles?

Porcelain tiles are made from refined clay, typically kaolin, combined with feldspar and quartz, then fired at extremely high temperatures. This process produces a dense, durable tile with low porosity. Through vitrification, porcelain becomes almost glass-like, making it resistant to moisture, stains, and wear.

Available in a wide range of finishes, from natural stone looks to polished marble effects, porcelain tiles offer both strength and design flexibility. Large-format tiles, such as 120x120cm, are increasingly popular in contemporary interiors, while 60x60cm formats remain a reliable choice for everyday use.

Porcelain vs. Ceramic – What’s the Difference?

At first glance, porcelain and ceramic tiles may look similar, but their performance differs:

• Porcelain Tiles: Denser, stronger, and highly moisture-resistant. Ideal for high-traffic areas and spaces exposed to water.

• Ceramic Tiles: More porous and easier to cut, suitable for smaller DIY projects or areas with light use.

Porcelain tiles also mimic natural materials like marble, stone, and concrete without the high maintenance or sealing required for real stone.

Where Can You Use Porcelain Tiles?

Porcelain tiles are versatile and suitable for almost any space in your home or commercial area.

Kitchens

Porcelain works beautifully on both floors and walls. It stands up to spills, foot traffic, and heavy appliances. Stone, marble, or textured concrete finishes can elevate your kitchen design while remaining practical and easy to clean.

Bathrooms

Porcelain’s moisture resistance makes it perfect for floors, walls, and showers. Large-format tiles minimize grout lines, creating a seamless, modern look. Matte finishes provide extra slip resistance in wet zones.

Hallways, Entranceways, and Utility Rooms

These high-traffic areas benefit from porcelain’s strength and wear resistance. Use patterned tiles or larger formats, like 60x120cm, to add visual interest while keeping maintenance simple.

Walls

Porcelain tiles can enhance feature walls in living rooms, bathrooms, or behind fireplaces. They’re also ideal for utility rooms, cloakrooms, or pantries because of their easy-to-clean surfaces.

Outdoors

Slip-resistant porcelain tiles can be installed on patios, balconies, and pathways. Outdoor tiles are usually thicker (around 20mm), but even thinner options can perform well when installed properly on a solid base. They’re resistant to frost and UV rays, making them suitable for changing weather conditions.

Popular Porcelain Tile Styles

Porcelain tiles come in a wide variety of looks to suit any interior style.

• Concrete-Look Tiles: Neutral and modern, perfect for open-plan areas and utility spaces.

• Marble-Effect Tiles: Elegant and low-maintenance, replicating natural veining and shine.

• Stone-Look Tiles: Textured and warm, ideal for relaxed yet sophisticated spaces.

• Wood-Effect Tiles: Timber-like appearance with waterproof and scratch-resistant benefits.

• Patterned Tiles: Bold designs for floors or feature walls, combining style with practicality.

Durability and Maintenance

Porcelain tiles are incredibly durable, scratch-resistant, and ideal for high-traffic areas. Their low porosity makes them resistant to water, stains, frost, and UV exposure. Cleaning is easy: sweep or vacuum regularly and mop with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner. Most glazed or polished tiles do not require sealing. For tough stains, diluted tile-safe cleaners work well.

Cost of Porcelain Tiles

Tile prices depend on size, style, and finish:

• Standard indoor tiles (60x60cm): $30–£40/ft²

• Mid-range marble or stone-look tiles: $35–£50/m²

• Premium large-format or outdoor tiles: $60+/m²

Remember to include installation materials adhesive, grout, and trims in your budget.

Installing Porcelain Tiles

Proper installation ensures long-lasting performance:

• Use a level surface and flexible cement-based adhesive rated for porcelain.

• Cut tiles with a wet tile saw and diamond blade for precision.

• Choose the right grout: standard for dry areas, water-resistant or epoxy for wet zones.

• Outdoors, ensure a solid base and full-bed adhesive for durability.

FAQs About Porcelain Tiles

Are porcelain tiles slippery when wet?
Depends on the finish—matte and textured tiles offer better grip than polished surfaces.

Do porcelain tiles fade in the sun?
No. They are UV-resistant and suitable for sun-exposed areas.

Do porcelain tiles need sealing?
Most do not. Low porosity eliminates the need for sealing, but grout lines may benefit from occasional sealing.

Can porcelain tiles be used with underfloor heating?
Yes, they conduct heat well and are compatible with both electric and water-based systems.

What’s the difference between glazed and full-body porcelain?
Glazed tiles have a surface layer for design; full-body porcelain has consistent color and texture throughout, making chips less noticeable.

How do you cut or drill porcelain tiles?
Use a wet tile saw with a diamond blade for cutting and a diamond-tipped drill bit at low speed for drilling. Keep the area cool with water.

How do you clean outdoor porcelain tiles?
Sweep regularly, deep clean with a tile-safe patio cleaner and stiff brush, rinse thoroughly, and avoid acid-based products.