Porcelain Tiles
Made from porcelain clays and are fired at a much higher temperature, which makes them even more dense and durable than non porcelain tiles. True porcelain tiles have a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%, giving them frost resistance. Some porcelain tiles are glazed with color like ceramic tiles. Others are "full bodied" which means the tile carries its color throughout it's entire thickness making them impervious to wear and appropriate for high traffic areas. Most porcelain tiles today have a PEI rating of 5 or suitable for heavy duty traffic.

Ceramic Tiles
Non porcelain tiles are usually made from white or red clay. are fired in a kiln and coated ina glaze that gives it color. They work for both floor and wall applications but are usually softer and easier to cut than porcelain tile. They carry a PEI rating of 0 to 3 or light to medium traffic. Non porcelain tiles are good for light to moderate traffic but are more prone to chipping, scratches & wear than porcelain tiles.

PEI Rating
This is the most common abrasion resistance test that can be encountered when shopping for tile. The Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) developed this test. Tiles are tested using their method and are given a rating for surface abrasion resistance. The following indicate the rating and their meaning:

Coefficient of Friction
A measurement of slip resistance. Different standards apply to dry areas or those exposed to water or grease. Tiles with a slip resistant rating of 0.5 or better should work well in most "dry" indoor residential applications. Excellent choices for bathrooms is a tile floor with slip resistant ratings of 0.6 or greater since they may become wet.

• New latex modified mortars and grouts provide better strength while also allowing greater flexibility. Sealing of grout can be done after it has cured. This will help it to resist staining.
• LATICRETE SpectraLOCK Grout is an epoxy based grout that utilizes a revolutionary breakthrough in technology. Its unique cross-linking system performs like an epoxy with respect to color uniformity, durability, and stain resistance and it is easy to use like a portland cement base grout.
• Epoxy grouts: Epoxy grout is quite different from cementitious grout and epoxy emulsion grout. Made from epoxy resins and a filler powder, the grout is extremely hard, durable, and nearly stain proof.

You may want to consider heating your tile floor
Yes, heated floor systems are available for under ceramic tile floors. What a great way to rid your floor of the cold on your bare feet in the middle of winter. Heated areas can cover entire floors or just certain areas. Please ask our sales staff about this option and be one step closer to a more comfortable home.