Oxford Tiles Help Center
Although they may look similar at first glance, there are a few key differences between the two most popular tiles, as seen below: Ceramic Tiles:
- Easier to cut as they are more flexible/softer than porcelain tiles.
- Easier to mould, hence the plethora of 'decor' and small form ceramic tiles.
- Usually cheaper than their porcelain counterparts.
- Easier to clean and maintain than natural stone.
Porcelain Tiles:
- Extremely low maintenance.
- More hard wearing than ceramic, and are perfect for high traffic areas.
- More brittle than ceramic tiles, making them more difficult to cut.
- More options for large format tiles, as porcelain has a smaller chance of breaking while in transit.
- Low porosity, meaning porcelain can be rated for outside use. Please note that not all porcelain is rates for outdoors use.
- On average more expensive than ceramic.
Overall there are benefits of both ceramic and porcelain tiles, but as a general rule of thumb porcelain tiles are better for high traffic areas and flooring (Hallways, bathrooms, kitchens etc.) while ceramic tiles are better for walls, for budget projects, and for small form/decor tiles.
For the most part yes, flooring tiles are perfectly suitable for walls, given that proper precautions are taken before tiling.
Both the weight and thickness of the tile need to be taken into account, as they may affect the final product.
If tile backer boards are used, such as our Aquaboard Eco magnesium backer boards, most floor tiles are suitable for walls as backer boards can hold upward of 100kg/m² with no issue.
For plaster skimmed walls or plasterboard has a maximum loading weight of around 20kg², so some heavier floor tiles will not be suitable.
Not to worry! We have an extensive range of suppliers across the globe, and over 1000 products to choose from from our bespoke catalogues!
Lead times vary for these as these tiles come directly from abroad, but usually range from between 3-5 weeks.
To learn more about this please either send us an email with the tile design you would like to be quoted on, or call us for further help.
Pricing on these products are based off individual orders, and are subject to change on a biweekly basis.
Our showroom and office are at the below address: 113 Wheatley Road
Garsington Oxford
OX44 9DR
We strive to deliver between 2-4 working days across the UK (excl. Ireland) with most products available on a next day delivery service. Out of stock products and special order products have an estimated lead time of 3-4 weeks