Non-Porcelain Ceramic Tiles: With a significantly higher water absorption rate of around 4%, non-porcelain ceramic tiles are much more prone to wear and chipping than porcelain tiles. Because of this porosity, the top surface of a ceramic tile is typically sealed with a glaze that also determines the tile’s finished color, design and texture.

Ceramic tiles are only suitable for light traffic areas as they are much less resilient than porcelain tiles. In addition, ceramic is only suitable for interior applications since it absorbs too much water to be durable in exterior applications. This is especially important in areas where the temperature drops below freezing, as the tile will not be able to withstand such extreme fluctuations. Ceramic tiles can be sold individually or mounted onto mesh sheets.