Which Tile Should I Use for My Shower, Ceramic or Porcelain?

When you’re choosing shower tile, porcelain and ceramic are two of the most popular options. These tiles are the preferred choices for shower installations due to their wide range of colors, patterns and styles, as well as their affordability and durability.

Ceramic vs. Porcelain Shower Tile

You can use either of these popular tile options for a shower installation, but they're far from interchangeable. The right choice depends on your budget, style and how often you use the shower. While both porcelain and ceramic are fired clay, porcelain is made using finer clay and is fired at a higher temperature. Here’s how they compare for everyday shower use: 

• Strength and durability: Porcelain shower tiles are denser and harder than standard ceramic tiles, making them a strong choice for long-term value. They're also more resistant to chipping, cracking and breaking.
• Water resistance: While porcelain is a type of ceramic, it has a low water absorption rate of under 0.5%. Standard ceramic shower tiles have higher porosity and absorption rates, so proper installation and placement matter in wet areas.
• Cost and installation: Ceramic tiles, because they are usually easier to produce, are more budget-friendly upfront. Porcelain tiles also have higher installation costs since they're harder and require specialized tools. However, porcelain offers greater longevity than ceramic, making it more cost-effective in the long term.
• Cleaning and maintenance: Because ceramic tile is generally more porous than porcelain, it takes in grime and soap scum, meaning it needs more intensive cleaning than porcelain tiles. Porcelain tiles need less maintenance overall.
• Designs and colors: Although both porcelain and ceramic shower tiles are available in diverse styles and colors, porcelain tiles tend toward premium material designs like marble-look or wood-look products. Ceramic tiles are often available in more colors and patterns, but don't generally offer the same luxury designs.

When to Use Ceramic Shower Tile

Ceramic shower tiles are the ideal solution for:

• Budget-conscious shower installations, where short-term affordability outweighs long-term value.
• Spaces where simple patterns are preferred, or where you want to match a basic existing aesthetic.
• Shower walls, when paired with porcelain shower tiles for the floor, since they won't remain submerged.
• Guest bathrooms and other bathrooms that see occasional, rather than daily, use.
• Indoor bathrooms where rain and the elements are less of a concern.
• Spacious bathrooms that need a large number of tiles.

When to Use Porcelain Shower Tile

Porcelain shower tile can be used anywhere in your shower installation, but it's exceptionally well-suited to:

• Value-conscious shower installations that prioritize longevity and durability over short-term costs.
• Showers where the look of marble or wood is ideal to complement a premium design style. 
• Shower floors, in a mixed-tile installation, since they're durable enough to withstand pooling water.
• Family bathrooms that see regular daily use, making longevity and water resistance a top priority.
• Open-air outdoor bathroom designs where rain, grime and other factors are a concern.
• Smaller bathrooms where you can use fewer higher-quality tiles.

Find Your Ideal Shower Tile Today

Ready to compare shower tile options for your style, space and budget? Turn to Carpet & Tile Mart for reliable service and hands-on guidance. Visit a store near you or contact us to discuss your needs.