Does Porcelain Tile Break Easily? (7 Shocking Truths!)

I’m Mike, a flooring contractor with over 15 years of experience.

I’ve seen it all when it comes to flooring – the good, the bad, and the downright ugly.

And today, I want to tackle a topic that I get asked about all the time: porcelain tile.

Porcelain tile has taken the home design world by storm, and for good reason.

It’s beautiful, versatile, and supposedly tough as nails. But is it really indestructible?

That’s what we’re going to find out.

Get ready to have your perceptions challenged, because I’m about to reveal 7 shocking truths about porcelain tile that you probably didn’t know.

Section 1: Understanding Porcelain Tile

1. Definition and Composition:

So, what exactly is porcelain tile?

Well, it’s a type of ceramic tile, but it’s made using finer clay and fired at much higher temperatures (typically above 2,300 degrees Fahrenheit).

This process results in a tile that’s denser, less porous, and much more durable than standard ceramic tile.

Think of it like this: ceramic tile is like a regular cookie, while porcelain tile is like a biscotti – harder, denser, and less likely to crumble.

The main ingredients in porcelain tile are:

• Fine-grain clays: These provide the base structure.
• Feldspar: This acts as a fluxing agent, helping the materials fuse together during firing.
• Silica: This adds strength and hardness.
• Other minerals: These can be added to achieve specific colors and textures.

The manufacturing process is pretty intense.

The raw materials are ground into a fine powder, mixed with water to form a slurry, and then pressed into shape under enormous pressure.

After that, the tiles are fired in a kiln at those super-high temperatures I mentioned earlier.

This vitrification process is what gives porcelain tile its signature strength and low water absorption rate (less than 0.5%, according to the American Society for Testing and Materials, ASTM).

2. Common Uses of Porcelain Tile:

Because of its durability and water resistance, porcelain tile is incredibly versatile.

I’ve installed it in just about every room of the house, and even outdoors.

Here are some of the most common applications:

• Floors: Porcelain is a fantastic choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, and hallways.
• Walls: It’s a great option for backsplashes, shower walls, and accent walls.
• Countertops: While less common, porcelain slabs are gaining popularity as a countertop material due to their stain resistance and durability.
• Outdoor spaces: Porcelain pavers are perfect for patios, walkways, and pool decks because they can withstand the elements.

I’ve even seen it used in commercial settings like restaurants, retail stores, and offices.

Its ability to handle heavy foot traffic and resist stains makes it a real workhorse.

Section 2: The Myth of Indestructibility

3. Debunking the Myth:

Okay, let’s get to the heart of the matter.

Here’s the first shocking truth: while porcelain tile is incredibly durable, it is not indestructible.

I know, I know – it’s a tough pill to swallow.

We’ve all heard the claims that porcelain tile can withstand anything.

But trust me, I’ve seen plenty of broken porcelain tiles in my day.

The reality is that porcelain tile can break under certain circumstances.

Think about it: even diamonds can be shattered with enough force!

Some common scenarios where porcelain tile can break include:

• Heavy impacts: Dropping a heavy object like a cast iron skillet or a hammer on a porcelain tile can definitely cause it to crack or chip.
• Improper installation: This is a big one. If the tile isn’t properly supported by the substrate or if the mortar bed is uneven, it can be more vulnerable to breakage.
• Extreme temperature changes: Rapid temperature fluctuations can cause the tile to expand and contract, which can lead to stress cracks.

4. Types of Breakage:

So, what does a broken porcelain tile actually look like?

Well, there are a few different types of breakage that I’ve encountered over the years:

• Chipping: This is when a small piece of tile breaks off, usually along an edge or corner. It’s often caused by impacts or abrasion.
• Cracking: This is when a line or fissure appears on the surface of the tile. Cracks can be caused by stress, impact, or temperature changes.
• Shattering: This is the most dramatic type of breakage, where the tile completely breaks into multiple pieces. It’s usually caused by a very strong impact.

Let me share a quick story.

I once got a call from a homeowner who had just renovated their kitchen.

They had installed beautiful porcelain tile flooring, but a week later, they noticed a large crack running across one of the tiles.

I went over to inspect it, and it turned out that the contractor hadn’t properly leveled the subfloor before installing the tile.

As a result, the tile was under constant stress, and eventually, it cracked.

That’s why proper installation is so crucial!

Section 3: Factors Influencing Durability

5. Quality Matters:

Here’s the second shocking truth: not all porcelain tiles are created equal.

Just like with any product, there’s a wide range of quality levels available.

The quality of the materials, the manufacturing process, and the water absorption rate all play a role in determining a tile’s strength and durability.

Higher-quality porcelain tiles are typically made with finer clays, pressed at higher pressures, and fired at more consistent temperatures.

They also tend to have lower water absorption rates, which makes them more resistant to cracking and staining.

According to the Tile Council of North America (TCNA), porcelain tiles should have a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less to be considered true porcelain.

So, how can you tell if a porcelain tile is high quality?

Here are a few things to look for:

• PEI rating: This rating (Porcelain Enamel Institute) indicates a tile’s resistance to abrasion. A higher PEI rating means the tile is more durable and suitable for high-traffic areas. Look for a PEI rating of 3 or higher for floors.
• Water absorption rate: As I mentioned earlier, look for a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less.
• Rectified edges: Tiles with rectified (precisely cut) edges tend to be more consistent in size and shape, which can make for a smoother, more durable installation.
• Visual inspection: Examine the tile closely for any imperfections, such as cracks, chips, or uneven glazing.

6. Installation Impact:

This leads me to the third shocking truth: even the strongest porcelain tile can break if it’s not installed correctly.

I cannot stress this enough.

Proper installation is absolutely essential for ensuring the longevity and durability of your porcelain tile flooring.

Here are some of the key factors that can affect the outcome:

• Substrate preparation: The substrate (the surface underneath the tile) must be clean, level, and stable. Any cracks or imperfections in the substrate can telegraph through to the tile and cause it to crack.
• Underlayment: Using a proper underlayment can help to cushion the tile and prevent it from cracking due to movement in the subfloor.
• Mortar: Choosing the right type of mortar is crucial for creating a strong bond between the tile and the substrate.
• Grout: Grout fills the spaces between the tiles and helps to distribute weight evenly. It also prevents water from seeping underneath the tiles.
• Installer expertise: Hiring a qualified and experienced tile installer is one of the best investments you can make. A skilled installer will know how to properly prepare the substrate, choose the right materials, and install the tile correctly.

I’ve seen so many cases where beautiful, expensive porcelain tile was ruined by a shoddy installation.

Don’t let that happen to you!

Section 4: Maintenance and Care

7. Wear and Tear:

Now, let’s talk about maintenance.

Here’s the fourth shocking truth: while porcelain is resistant to stains and moisture, it can still suffer from wear and tear over time.

Think about it – even the most durable materials will eventually show signs of use if they’re subjected to constant wear and tear.

Heavy furniture, constant foot traffic, and improper cleaning methods can all contribute to surface wear and potential breakage.

For example, dragging heavy furniture across a porcelain tile floor can scratch the surface.

Using abrasive cleaners can dull the finish and make the tile more susceptible to staining.

And neglecting to clean up spills promptly can lead to permanent stains.

8. Preventative Measures:

So, what can you do to protect your porcelain tile flooring from wear and tear?

Here’s the fifth shocking truth: maintaining porcelain tiles can significantly extend their lifespan.

A little bit of preventative maintenance can go a long way.

Here are some tips:

• Regular cleaning: Sweep or vacuum your porcelain tile floor regularly to remove dirt and debris. Mop with a neutral pH cleaner to remove stains and grime.
• Protective pads: Place felt pads under the legs of heavy furniture to prevent scratching.
• Doormats: Use doormats at entrances to trap dirt and moisture before they can get onto your porcelain tile floor.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners: Don’t use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or steel wool on your porcelain tile floor. These can scratch the surface.
• Clean up spills promptly: Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining.
• Re-seal grout: Re-seal your grout every year or two to prevent it from becoming stained and discolored.

Section 5: Environmental Factors

9. Temperature and Humidity:

Let’s move on to environmental factors.

Here’s the sixth shocking truth: extreme temperature changes can affect porcelain tiles.

Porcelain tile expands and contracts slightly with changes in temperature.

In most cases, this isn’t a problem.

But if the temperature changes are too extreme or too rapid, it can put stress on the tile and cause it to crack.

This is especially true in areas with harsh winters, where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically.

Exposure to freezing temperatures and high humidity can also lead to problems.

If water gets into the grout lines and freezes, it can expand and put pressure on the tiles, causing them to crack or come loose.

10. Impact of Heavy Objects:

Finally, let’s talk about heavy objects.

Here’s the seventh shocking truth: the weight and type of objects placed on porcelain tiles can lead to breakage.

Porcelain tile is strong, but it’s not invincible.

If you place a very heavy object on a porcelain tile floor, it can put stress on the tile and cause it to crack.

This is especially true if the weight is concentrated on a small area.

For example, placing a heavy appliance like a refrigerator or a washing machine directly on a porcelain tile floor without any support can cause the tile to crack.

The type of object also matters.

Sharp, pointed objects can be more likely to damage porcelain tile than flat, smooth objects.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it – the seven shocking truths about porcelain tile durability.

Let’s recap:

1. Porcelain tile is durable, but not indestructible.
2. Not all porcelain tiles are created equal.
3. Even the strongest tile can break if not installed correctly.
4. Porcelain can still suffer from wear and tear.
5. Maintaining porcelain extends its lifespan.
6. Extreme temperature changes can affect tiles.
7. Heavy objects can lead to breakage.

I hope this article has helped to shed some light on the realities of porcelain tile durability.

While porcelain tile is a fantastic flooring option, it’s important to understand its limitations and take steps to protect it from damage.

By choosing high-quality tile, ensuring proper installation, and following a regular maintenance routine, you can enjoy the beauty and durability of porcelain tile for many years to come.

Call to Action:

Now, I want to hear from you!

Have you had any experiences with broken porcelain tile?

What are your tips for keeping porcelain tile looking its best?

Share your thoughts and questions in the comments section below.

Let’s start a conversation and learn from each other!

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