Porcelain tile is denser, less porous, and more durable than ceramic tile, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas and outdoor applications. Most porcelain tiles carry a higher PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating, indicating superior resistance to wear. Ceramic tile is slightly softer and easier to cut, making it a versatile and cost-effective option for indoor projects with lighter to moderate foot traffic.

For more details on performance, installation, and application recommendations, refer to the available product and technical reports for each series.

For kitchen floors, porcelain tile is the best choice due to its durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance. MSI's porcelain collections offer:

Best Options for Kitchens:

• Large format porcelain (24"+ tiles) for fewer grout lines and easier cleaning
• Matte or textured finishes for slip resistance
• Through-body porcelain to hide wear in high-traffic areas

Top MSI Kitchen Collections:

• Stile^® Porcelain Slabs for seamless countertops and floors
• Marble-look porcelain for luxury appearance without maintenance
• Wood-look porcelain for warmth with waterproof performance

For bathrooms, choose porcelain tile for superior water resistance and durability. MSI offers specialized bathroom solutions:

Best for Bathroom Floors:

• Slip-resistant porcelain with DCOF rating of 0.42+
• Large format tiles (reduces grout lines and maintenance)
• Textured surfaces for wet area safety

Best for Bathroom Walls:

• AquaLume^® Porcelain Panels for seamless shower walls
• Glazed porcelain for easy cleaning
• Subway and mosaic styles for classic appeal

Why Choose MSI for Bathrooms:

• Low water absorption ('<'0.5%)
• Stain and scratch resistance
• No sealing required on glazed surfaces

The PEI rating (Porcelain Enamel Institute rating) measures a tile’s resistance to surface wear. Ratings range from 1 (light residential use, such as walls) to 5 (heavy commercial use, ideal for malls or airports). For most residential floors, a PEI rating of 3 or higher is recommended. For outdoor porcelain tile and pavers, a PEI rating of 3 or 4 is typically suitable, depending on foot traffic and application. High-traffic indoor areas should use tiles rated 4 or 5 for maximum durability. For project-specific guidance, check the available PEI and technical performance reports provided for each collection.

Porcelain tile is the most durable option for high-traffic commercial and residential spaces. Look for these specifications:

Durability Features:

• PEI Rating 4-5 (heavy to extra heavy traffic)
• Breaking strength 250+ lbs
• Low water absorption ('<'0.5%)
• Through-body construction (wear doesn't show)

Best MSI Collections for High Traffic:

• Commercial-rated porcelain lines
• Large format tiles (fewer grout lines = less maintenance)
• Rectified edges for tight grout lines

MSI's Arterra^® Porcelain Pavers are specifically engineered for outdoor use and offer the best performance:

Why Arterra^® is Best for Outdoors:

• Freeze-thaw resistant (won't crack in winter)
• Fade resistant colors that last for decades
• Slip-resistant surfaces for safety
• No sealing required (low maintenance)
• 20mm thickness for pedestal or sand-set installation

Rectified tiles are mechanically cut to exact dimensions with perfectly straight edges, allowing for thinner grout lines and a seamless, modern look. Non-rectified tiles have slightly irregular edges due to traditional firing methods, requiring wider grout joints for installation and offering a more classic appearance.

• Polished tiles have a glossy, reflective surface that enhances color depth and creates a luxurious look, but they may be more slippery in wet areas.
• Matte tiles provide a soft, non-reflective finish with better slip resistance, making them ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces.
• Semi-polished (Lappato) tiles offer a balance between the two, with a subtle sheen that highlights the texture while maintaining practicality.

Absolutely. Both porcelain and ceramic tiles can be used for flooring, walls, and backsplashes. Large-format tiles are especially popular for walls, creating a seamless and modern look. Always check the PEI rating to ensure the tile is suitable for floor traffic.

Porcelain slabs, such as Stile®, are large-format surfaces ideal for countertops, flooring, and wall applications, offering a sleek and modern aesthetic. Panels, like AquaLume™, are designed for seamless wall and shower installations, reducing grout lines and simplifying maintenance.

Tile size dramatically affects the look and feel of your space. Here's how to choose:

Small Spaces (under 100 sq ft):

• Large format tiles (24"+ or slabs) make spaces appear larger
• Fewer grout lines create seamless look
• Light colors enhance spacious feeling

Large Spaces (over 200 sq ft):

• Any size works - choose based on design preference
• Extra large formats (48"+ or slabs) create dramatic impact
• Mixed sizes can define different areas

Best MSI Size Options:

• Slabs: 63"x126" for ultimate seamless look
• Large format: 24"x48", 32"x32", 12"x48"
• Standard: 12"x24", 18"x18", 6"x24"
• Mosaic: 2"x2" up to 4"x4" for accents

Both tile types are low maintenance, requiring only routine sweeping and mopping with a mild detergent. Unlike natural stone, porcelain and ceramic do not require sealing, though grout lines may benefit from periodic sealing to prevent staining.

Yes. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are made from natural materials and are often manufactured using eco-friendly processes. Their long lifespan and durability also reduce the need for frequent replacements, making them a sustainable flooring choice.