Porcelain, Ceramic and Glass: Making Sense of Kitchen Tile Materials

From flooring to backsplashes to countertops, your kitchen is full of surfaces just waiting to be decorated with tile. Because it comes in such a wide variety of shapes, colors, and sizes, tile is incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into any style. However, one of the most important decisions to make when selecting kitchen tile is to determine which kind of tile to use. Figuring out whether you need ceramic, porcelain or glass is the first step in creating a finished product you’ll love.

Ceramic

Many homeowners choose ceramic for their kitchen tile for its versatility. Since ceramic tiles come in such a wide range of shapes and colors, you can find options to work for whatever style you want to achieve. The decorative glaze applied to ceramic makes it easy to wipe down, so this material is an excellent choice for kitchen counters and backsplashes that are vulnerable to cooking messes.

Porcelain

For no fuss installation and maintenance, porcelain tiles cannot be beat. This classic material can be used on just about any kitchen surface because it holds up well to both spills and impact. There are even varieties of porcelain tiles designed to imitate more expensive or less durable materials like slate, hardwood and marble, so you can use it to create a long lasting and stylish flooring that doesn’t break the bank.

Glass

Glass is another highly customizable type of kitchen tile and is a popular choice for intricate backsplashes. The aesthetic appeal of glass tiles doesn’t come without a cost, however. Installation of this beautiful material is more difficult than its porcelain or ceramic counterparts, so most homeowners are better off hiring a professional to make sure the tile goes on neatly and securely.

Choosing tile can be one of the most exciting parts of designing or remodeling your kitchen, but completing a project with the wrong kind of material could turn your dream kitchen into a nightmare down the road. Don’t hesitate to consult with a professional to identify the kitchen tile that will give your space the look and functionality you want.