You've probably noticed that tile comes in what seems like a million styles, colors, shapes and finishes. With so many options to choose from, it can get overwhelming when deciding what's best for your home or business. Porcelain tile has become a popular choice due to its durability and aesthetic, but should you go with unglazed or glazed? Both have their pros and cons when it comes to appearance, maintenance and performance. In this article, we'll break down the key differences between unglazed and glazed porcelain to help you determine which is better suited for your space and needs. 

We'll look at how they compare in terms of look, feel, cleaning requirements, slip resistance and more. We'll also provide tips for choosing the right tile for specific rooms and touch on grout considerations. Let's dive in so you can make the most informed decision when choosing your porcelain tiles!
 

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An Overview of Unglazed vs Glazed Porcelain Tiles

Durability

Glazed porcelain tiles have a glass coating that makes them very durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and water damage. Unglazed porcelain tiles lack this coating, so they tend to be slightly less durable, especially to staining and scratches. However, unglazed porcelain tiles are still quite durable compared to other flooring options.

Appearance

Glazed porcelain tiles have a glossy, shiny appearance due to the glass coating. They come in a wide range of colors and styles. Unglazed porcelain tiles have an authentic, natural stone-like appearance. They are not as vibrant or glossy as glazed tiles but offer an understated, earthy look. Unglazed porcelain tiles showcase the natural tones and textures of the porcelain material.
 

Slip Resistance

Unglazed porcelain tiles typically offer better slip resistance than glazed porcelain tiles due to their natural, textured surface. The glass coating on glazed tiles can be quite slippery, especially when wet. For high-traffic commercial areas or outdoor applications, unglazed porcelain tiles may be a safer choice. However, glazed porcelain tiles can also be slip-resistant if they have a textured surface.
 

Price

Glazed porcelain tiles tend to be slightly more expensive than unglazed porcelain tiles. The glass coating and firing process required to produce glazed tiles adds to the overall cost. However, both glazed and unglazed porcelain tiles typically offer good value for the money to other premium flooring and cladding materials.

At the end of the day, the choice between glazed and unglazed porcelain tiles depends on your priorities and needs. If you need a high-gloss floor or wall surface that is highly resistant, go for glazed porcelain tiles. If you want an understated natural stone look, you would go for the unglazed tiles. Whichever way you look at it, porcelain is great.

Key Differences Between Unglazed and Glazed Porcelain Tiles

Glazed and unglazed porcelain tiles each have their pros and cons. To decide which is right for your space, consider the following key differences.

Appearance and Texture

Unglazed porcelain tiles give a raw stone-like feel, revealing slight color variations within the tiles and patterns. On the other hand, being impervious, glazed body porcelain tiles contain a glass coating resulting in the ultra-smooth glossy surface and uniform color that's vibrant. Glazed porcelain tiles are used in heavy-traffic commercial areas with hard-wearing activities and in lobbies. Unglazed porcelain gives a rustic look in residential areas.
 

Stain and Water Resistance

Porcelain tiles, with their glass coat, harbor an impervious, stain-resistant surface that is also highly water-resistant. Unglazed porcelains will tend to stain over time; most take in liquids, but they are still tougher and less maintenance-intensive than natural stone. If the most desirable feature is the best stain or water resistance, then glazed porcelain is better.
 

Slip Resistance

The unglazed tiles normally feel rough due to their porcelain nature and provide more resistance to slipping. Glazed porcelain tiles can be slippery mostly when wet. By installing unglazed porcelain in kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, the resistivity of slipping is heightened. Glazed porcelain tiles that are slippery need to be fixed with strips of slip-fighting or mats.
 

Maintenance

Otherwise, unglazed and glazed porcelain tiles are almost maintenance-free and easy to clean. The textured surface of unglazed porcelain tiles may require a little extra sweeping or mopping more frequently for the prevention of accumulation of dirt and grime. An occasional application of a sealant on unglazed porcelain tiles is also recommended for maintaining prevention from staining although they are non-porous. Therefore, cleaning of glazed porcelain tiles is possible by simply wiping it with a damp cloth to retain its new fresh look.

But what is sure is that both unglazed and glazed porcelain tiles are fabulous materials suitable for the home. Learn the key differences so you can choose the style that fits your design needs—and your life. Design a space that you'll love for years to come!

Which Is Better for Your Home or Business - Pros and Cons of Each Type

Unglazed Porcelain Tiles

Stone-look Tiles: Porcelain tiles have a stone-like look to them. The porcelain tiles have no glaze, so they come in matte finishing in their raw state. They resist stains, scratches, and moisture; they're tough and impervious. They are mostly recommended for application in high-traffic commercial use, like in lobbies, hallways, and bathroom floors. The raw surface is most likely to be porous and unsealed; hence, it might show footprints and, if not sealed, may allow stains. They will also require more regular cleaning.

Glazed Porcelain Tiles

These tiles are non-permeable because of the glossiness of the coating. These tiles are naturally stain- and water-repellent and are easy to clean, making them apt for households with kids and commercial premises. The glaze might chip or scratch over time, and it may require resealing. In terms of being slippery, glazed tiles are too slippery, especially when exposed to wetness, which could be very dangerous, probably common with high traffic or outdoor areas.

But really, glazed versus unglazed porcelain is going to have their own set of pros and cons for either bushel. For most actual homes and businesses, glazed could mean more low-maintenance, whereas unglazed would obviously give a natural, non slip texture. Consider where you want to put your tiles, how much traffic, and how much use is going to be—now the best one. With their durability and broad range of styles, either type of porcelain tile can supply you with a beautiful, long-lasting surface to enjoy.

Conclusion

So there you have it. Unglazed and glazed porcelain tiles have their own pros and cons. Which of them is better for use in your residence or business really depends on your priorities. If slip resistance is a must, then unglazed scores more points. For easy cleaning and the resistance to stains, though, glazed porcelain is your best bet. With that in mind, you'll be just fine with any type you choose, as long as you know what you're getting yourself into. Just do your homework, look at all the options, and select the tile that suits your goals, lifestyle and space. 

Now, with the right amount of preparation and care, years of use become slightly more possible with porcelain. Whether your preference is the understated look of unglazed or the shiny sophistication of glazed, the end result is still a versatile and durable choice in ceramic tiles. Now that you're armed with the facts, you can pick the perfect porcelain tile with confidence. Happy tiling!