Do Porcelain Tiles Crack Easily?

This can be an important question to ask if you’re thinking about installing this flooring option in your house. The good news is that no, they generally don’t crack easily, but there are some things you should know before making your final decision.

Reasons why you should use porcelain tiles

Although ceramic and stone tile are more traditional than porcelain tiles, there are some advantages to using porcelain. The most obvious is that it has a much tougher surface than either of those two types of tile, so it’s less likely to crack in response to foot traffic or physical impact. Because it is made with a type of clay that is baked at high temperatures (around 1,300 degrees), it also tends to be very strong and durable.

How do they compare to other tiles?

On first sight, porcelain tiles look similar to other ceramic tiles. However, they are quite different when it comes to their strength and durability. The truth is that these tiles aren’t as strong as other ceramic options on today’s market.

Tile manufacturers actually produce porcelain tile in a way that makes them much more brittle than many of their counterparts. If you want an extremely durable surface, don’t opt for these flooring options.

How long do they last?

The answer is that it depends. The most important factor is your local climate. A porous tile like porcelain (or clay, or stone) will last considerably longer if you live in a dry, arid climate than if you live in an area with high humidity or regular rain showers.

You can expect tiles to last from twenty to forty years under typical conditions, but in a very dry environment, they may last for as long as sixty years or more.