What Is Ceramic Tile?

Ceramic tile is made from natural clay that's shaped and fired in a kiln, then typically finished with a glaze that gives it color, pattern, and surface protection. It's more porous than porcelain but generally more affordable and easier to cut, which is why it remains one of the most popular tile materials for walls, backsplashes, and lighter-use floors. This guide covers the different types of ceramic tile, where it performs best, and how it stacks up against porcelain. For quick definitions of related terms, see our full Tile Glossary.

What Is Ceramic Tile Made Of?

Ceramic tile is made from clay, sand, and water, fired at roughly 1,800-2,000°F, somewhat cooler than porcelain tile. Most ceramic tile is finished with a glaze, a glass-like coating fused over the clay body (called the "bisque") that provides color and a protective surface.

Types of Ceramic Tile

• Glazed Ceramic Tile: The most common type, available in matte, glossy, textured, or hand-painted glazes.
• Unglazed Ceramic Tile: Left in its natural fired state, quarry tile is a well-known example, often used in utility spaces.
• Terracotta Tile: Unglazed ceramic made from red-orange clay, prized for its rustic character.
• Encaustic-Style Ceramic Tile: Modern ceramic printed to mimic traditional cement encaustic patterns at a lower cost.
• Subway Tile: Classic rectangular ceramic tile, widely used for backsplashes and shower walls.

Where Ceramic Tile Works Best

Ceramic's lighter weight and easier cutting make it a natural fit for kitchen backsplashes and other wall applications, as well as lower-traffic floors like powder rooms and guest bathrooms. It's generally not recommended for exterior installations or areas with constant heavy moisture, where porcelain tends to hold up better.

Ceramic Tile vs. Porcelain Tile

Both are technically ceramic products, but porcelain is fired hotter and pressed denser, giving it a lower water absorption rate (0.5% or less, versus 3% or more for standard ceramic). That makes porcelain more durable in wet or high-traffic areas, while ceramic tends to be more budget-friendly and easier to DIY.

Pros and Cons of Ceramic Tile

Pros: More affordable than porcelain, easier to cut and install, huge range of colors and patterns, lighter weight.

Cons: More porous, generally not suited for exterior or freeze-thaw environments, glaze can chip to reveal a different-colored bisque underneath.

The Bottom Line

Ceramic tile remains one of the most versatile, budget-friendly options for walls, backsplashes, and lighter-use floors. Explore Belk Tile's backsplash tile collection or browse the full Tile Glossary for more terms.