Shopping for tiles can be difficult as the industry jargons can be pretty confusing. Often, one is asked to look for a homogeneous tile for their home. But what exactly is a homogeneous tile?

Quick definition:

Homogeneous tiles are a type of porcelain tile (full body porcelain tile).

There are two main tile categories: Porcelain and Ceramic. Porcelain tile is denser and less porous than a ceramic tile. This would mean porcelain tiles are much more durable and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The extra density is a result of a slightly different manufacturing process. Ceramic tile usually features a white or red body.

Hence, ceramic tiles are only recommended for interior walls and floors, or areas with light foot traffic. Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, are gaining popularity due to its flexibility in application. It is the choice for floors that anticipate heavier traffic such as kitchen floors, hallways and even car porches as they are relatively more resistant to scratching and chipping.

There are many types of porcelain tile but the two common types that are seen in the Hafary showroom are full body porcelain and glazed porcelain.

Full body porcelain (homogeneous): the colours of homogeneous tiles run uniformly through its entire thickness. Homogeneous tile will not expose a clay base when chipped.

Glazed porcelain tiles (meaning a glazing on top of the tile surface) may or may not have the same coloration from top to bottom because of the top glazed layer.