A porcelain tile could be described as a glorified ceramic. Both materials start out as clay, but the difference lies in the manufacturing process where porcelain is fired at a far higher temperature and with greater pressure. It is also made from a more refined and purified clay, resulting in a superior tile which is stronger, with a harder and more water-resistant surface.

Starting with the good, the trusty porcelain tile is an excellent flooring choice. It is highly durable and resistant to most heavy impact stresses, making it suitable for high-traffic areas, much more so than the standard ceramic tile. Porcelain is an extremely dense material which is resistant to water penetration and staining. Generally, a porcelain tile will last for decades and has extremely low maintenance - it's easy to clean and does not require sealing.