Porcelain Tile

Porcelain is made from a denser, more refined clay mixture and fired at higher temperatures than ceramic, resulting in a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less. This makes porcelain harder, less porous, and better suited for wet areas and heavy foot traffic. Ceramic is slightly softer and easier to cut, making it a practical and cost-effective choice for dry wall applications and lighter-traffic rooms.

Yes. Frost-resistant porcelain with a slip-rated textured finish is one of the best outdoor flooring materials available. Look for tiles rated R10 or R11 for outdoor use. Many of our large format and stone-look porcelain tiles are suitable for patios, pool surrounds, and covered outdoor areas - check individual product pages for freeze-thaw ratings.

Larger tiles - 12×24 or 24×24 - can actually make a small bathroom feel bigger by reducing grout lines and creating a more continuous visual surface. Large format 24×48 porcelain floor tile works particularly well in open-plan bathrooms. A 12×24 laid vertically on walls paired with a 24×24 floor tile is one of the most effective combinations for compact spaces.

Rectified porcelain tiles have been mechanically cut to precise, uniform dimensions after firing. This allows for much tighter grout joints - as narrow as 1/16" - and is essential for large format installations where consistency across dozens of tiles is critical. All large format tiles in our collection are rectified.

Regular sweeping or vacuuming to remove grit, followed by mopping with a pH-neutral cleaner, is all that's needed. Avoid acidic cleaners on polished porcelain as they can dull the surface over time. Grout lines should be sealed periodically to prevent staining - porcelain itself does not require sealing.

In many cases yes, provided the existing floor is structurally sound, level, and firmly adhered. Key considerations are the added height (typically 3/8"-1/2" per layer) and door clearances. Use a high-quality polymer-modified thinset and consult a professional installer for over-tile applications.