What’s the Difference Between Full-Body and Glazed Porcelain Tiles?
When choosing porcelain tiles in Surrey for your home or business, one of the most important decisions is selecting between full-body and glazed porcelain tiles. Both options offer durability, elegance, and versatility, but they have distinct differences that can impact your space’s aesthetics, maintenance, and longevity.
At Paradigm Surfaces, we provide a wide selection of high-quality porcelain tiles in Surrey to suit every design preference and functional need. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between full-body and glazed porcelain tiles to help you make the best choice.
What Are Full-Body Porcelain Tiles?
Full-body porcelain tiles are made from a single layer of clay that is uniformly colored and textured throughout. This means that the color and pattern run consistently from the surface to the tile’s core.
Key Features of Full-Body Porcelain Tiles:
✔ Highly durable – Ideal for high-traffic areas.
✔ Scratch-resistant – Minor scratches or chips are less noticeable.
✔ Slip-resistant – Often used in outdoor areas, kitchens, and commercial spaces.
✔ Matte or textured finish – Provides a more natural, understated look.
👉 Best Used For: Entryways, hallways, commercial spaces, industrial settings, and areas that require high durability.
What Are Glazed Porcelain Tiles?
Glazed porcelain tiles have a protective glaze applied to the surface, which gives them a glossy, matte, or textured finish. The glaze layer can feature intricate patterns, colors, or designs that aren’t possible with full-body tiles.
Key Features of Glazed Porcelain Tiles:
✔ Vibrant colors and patterns – More design flexibility.
✔ Easy to clean – The glaze prevents moisture absorption and stains.
✔ Glossy and polished finishes available – Adds elegance and brightness to spaces.
✔ Protective coating – Offers added resistance to water and spills.
👉 Best Used For: Bathrooms, kitchens, accent walls, and decorative flooring where aesthetics are a priority.
Full-Body vs. Glazed Porcelain Tiles: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Full-Body Porcelain Tiles | Glazed Porcelain Tiles |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Extremely durable | Durable but surface glaze may wear over time |
| Scratch Resistance | Scratches are less visible | Scratches may be more noticeable if the glaze is chipped |
| Design Variety | Limited to natural textures | Wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes |
| Slip Resistance | Often more slip-resistant | Glossy versions can be slippery when wet |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance | Easier to clean, but may show scratches over time |
| Best For | High-traffic areas, commercial spaces, and outdoor settings | Kitchens, bathrooms, walls, and decorative areas |
Which Type of Porcelain Tile Should You Choose?
The choice between full-body and glazed porcelain tiles in Surrey depends on where you’re installing them and your design preferences:
✔ For high-traffic areas or commercial spaces: Full-body porcelain tiles are ideal due to their durability and resistance to wear.
✔ For stylish interiors and decorative designs: Glazed porcelain tiles offer more variety in colors, patterns, and finishes, making them perfect for home interiors.
✔ For outdoor spaces or wet areas: Full-body tiles are slip-resistant, making them a better choice for patios, pool areas, and commercial entryways.
Find the Perfect Porcelain Tiles in Surrey at Paradigm Surfaces!
Whether you need full-body porcelain tiles for durability or glazed porcelain tiles for stunning designs, Paradigm Surfaces has the perfect solution for your project.