when choosing shower wall tile, understanding the distinctions between porcelain and ceramic is crucial. both materials are popular choices for shower walls, but they have unique characteristics that set them apart.
porcelain tile is denser and less porous than ceramic, making it more water-resistant and durable. this quality makes porcelain an excellent choice for shower wall applications where moisture resistance is paramount. ceramic tile, while still a solid option, is slightly more porous and may require more frequent sealing, and it’s more prone to chipping than porcelain, but it’s less slippery when wet than porcelain is.
both porcelain and ceramic tiles offer a wide range of colors, patterns and textures. however, porcelain often provides more sophisticated designs and can mimic natural materials like stone or wood more realistically. ceramic tiles typically offer more vibrant color options.
ceramic tiles are generally easier to install and cut for custom designs, making them a popular choice for DIY projects (but we always recommend hiring a pro). porcelain, being denser, can be more challenging to work with. when it comes to grouting, both materials require similar techniques, but porcelain's lower porosity may result in easier long-term maintenance.