What’s the Perfect Tile – Terracotta or Porcelain?
By HOUSPECT Building and Pest Inspections|October 25, 2017
When building, or renovating a home, there is many options available when it comes to the furnishings of your new home. Whilst timber is a popular choice amongst homeowners, tiles of many kinds are also popular due to their durability and ease of cleaning.
With many different tile options available, we have compared Terracotta and Porcelain Tiles below.
Terracotta Tile:
Terracotta is Italian for “cooked earth” and is a type of ceramic that is heated by firing in a kiln and then cooled. The clay it is made from contains iron which gives the Terracotta it’s colour, usually a red-brown, but can vary as much as pink, grey and even at times yellow.
Whilst Terracotta is not naturally waterproof, once it has been heated and then cooled, a post firing glaze is added. Once tiles are laid, a seal is usually applied for added reassurance to ensure that the tiles do not absorb any water.
Besides the lovely colour that Terracotta offers, there is many advantages for using such a tile. Terracotta tiles are strong, durable, fire resistance and are made from natural non toxic materials or chemicals. If you’re considering Terracotta as your roof tiles, you will also benefit from noise reduction.
Keeping Terracotta clean can be a little difficult, its important to ensure that you don’t scratch the surface. You can remove light dirt and grime with warm water and a soft brush. There is no need to use soap as this can leave a residue on the tiles, however steam cleaning is very effective in removing heavier marked tiles.
There isn’t many disadvantages to Terracotta tiles, the main thing to consider is that Terracotta is quite porous, therefore it must be treated properly if it’s going to be used around water (Correct sealing is a must).
Porcelain Tile:
Porcelain tiles are made from a finer, denser clay that is fired at higher temperatures. Usually, porcelain tiles are quite resistant when it comes to scratches and stains and are quite durable. It can easily endure high foot traffic and is a popular choice in both residential and commercial locations.
Whilst it is considered a durable tile, over time, wear and tear can be noticed. They are easy to maintain and keep clean with warm soapy water, and don’t need as much care as Terracotta tiles.
Porcelain tiles are less likely to absorb moisture as they are considered a dense tile, this is especially a positive for a colder climate where moisture is likely as the tiles will not crack.
Porcelain tiles are available in many styles which is also a big draw card, they can be made to look like granite, slate, marble, wood or even limestone to suit all home decors.
Realistically, you can’t go wrong with either terracotta or porcelain. It’s important when choosing furnishings that you choose something that is durable, meets budget and fits within the style of your home. Think about how long you plan on being in your home, if it’s a stepping stone or a ‘forever home’ and also consider choosing a tile that will give good resale value.
With many different tile options available, we have compared Terracotta and Porcelain Tiles below.
Terracotta Tile:
Terracotta is Italian for “cooked earth” and is a type of ceramic that is heated by firing in a kiln and then cooled. The clay it is made from contains iron which gives the Terracotta it’s colour, usually a red-brown, but can vary as much as pink, grey and even at times yellow.
Whilst Terracotta is not naturally waterproof, once it has been heated and then cooled, a post firing glaze is added. Once tiles are laid, a seal is usually applied for added reassurance to ensure that the tiles do not absorb any water.
Besides the lovely colour that Terracotta offers, there is many advantages for using such a tile. Terracotta tiles are strong, durable, fire resistance and are made from natural non toxic materials or chemicals. If you’re considering Terracotta as your roof tiles, you will also benefit from noise reduction.
Keeping Terracotta clean can be a little difficult, its important to ensure that you don’t scratch the surface. You can remove light dirt and grime with warm water and a soft brush. There is no need to use soap as this can leave a residue on the tiles, however steam cleaning is very effective in removing heavier marked tiles.
There isn’t many disadvantages to Terracotta tiles, the main thing to consider is that Terracotta is quite porous, therefore it must be treated properly if it’s going to be used around water (Correct sealing is a must).
Porcelain Tile:
Porcelain tiles are made from a finer, denser clay that is fired at higher temperatures. Usually, porcelain tiles are quite resistant when it comes to scratches and stains and are quite durable. It can easily endure high foot traffic and is a popular choice in both residential and commercial locations.
Whilst it is considered a durable tile, over time, wear and tear can be noticed. They are easy to maintain and keep clean with warm soapy water, and don’t need as much care as Terracotta tiles.
Porcelain tiles are less likely to absorb moisture as they are considered a dense tile, this is especially a positive for a colder climate where moisture is likely as the tiles will not crack.
Porcelain tiles are available in many styles which is also a big draw card, they can be made to look like granite, slate, marble, wood or even limestone to suit all home decors.
Realistically, you can’t go wrong with either terracotta or porcelain. It’s important when choosing furnishings that you choose something that is durable, meets budget and fits within the style of your home. Think about how long you plan on being in your home, if it’s a stepping stone or a ‘forever home’ and also consider choosing a tile that will give good resale value.
