is porcelain tile heat resistant? what to know

understanding porcelain tile heat resistance

heat resistance, especially as it pertains to tile, can be a complicated topic. you might be weighing a tile’s heat resistance for an outdoor application, for example, asking how the tile will respond when exposed to harsh sunlight for extended periods of time. or, you might be choosing a floor tile that’s compatible with radiant heating. then there’s tile for fireplace surrounds, stove backsplashes, and other heat-prone areas.

just ahead, we’re exploring all of these situations, including what gives porcelain tile its exceptional heat resistance in the first place.

are porcelain tiles heat resistant?

generally speaking, porcelain tiles are highly heat resistant due to how they are made. (we’ll get to that in a moment.) this makes them suitable for installation around fireplaces, stoves, and other high-heat areas.

that said, it’s always best to check a tile’s material guidelines if you will be installing the tile in a high-heat area. these guidelines will specify important details such as whether the tile can be exposed to direct heat.

what makes porcelain tile heat resistant?

remember when we said that porcelain tile is actually a subset of ceramic tile? the key difference is that porcelain is crafted from a finer, denser clay than other types of ceramic tile. it’s also fired in the kiln for longer and at higher temperatures (as in, often above 2,200°F).

this process makes the resulting tile denser and less porous, giving it durability against water, stains, scratches, UV exposure, and — as you might expect — heat.

long-term durability of porcelain tile in high-heat applications

as you consider how porcelain tile will fare in a high-heat area over time, keep in mind that there are different types of heat to consider.

a tile may have thermal stability, for example, withstanding high temperatures without cracking or breaking. it may also be thermal shock resistant, taking on sudden changes in temperature without damage. then there are other factors, like whether the tile is radiant heating compatible.

a tile’s technical specifications should detail these specific use-cases. as long as a particular type of tile is rated for the application you have in mind — and you follow the tile’s maintenance guidelines — you can expect to enjoy your tile for many years.

does porcelain tile get hot in the sun?

porcelain tile is naturally heat resistant, so it generally keeps its cool after prolonged exposure to intense sunlight. so if you’re having tile installed on an outdoor patio you’ll be walking barefoot on, porcelain tile could be an excellent choice.

of course, heat resistance will vary from tile to tile. dark-colored porcelain tiles may absorb more heat compared to light-colored tiles, for example.

do porcelain pavers get hot?

again, porcelain is famously heat resistant, making it a popular choice for outdoor areas that will see sunlight. the same applies to porcelain pavers, which are made specifically for weathering the elements.

the same rules apply here. darker tiles generally absorb more sunlight, while lighter tiles reflect more sunlight.

is it safe to use porcelain tiles for fireplace and woodstove surrounds?

yes, it is safe to use porcelain tiles for your fireplace and woodstove surrounds. in fact, this is one of the most common uses for porcelain tile.

porcelain tile can withstand high temperatures without cracking, warping, or discoloration. it is also non-combustible, meaning it does catch fire or burn. as always though, be sure to check a tile’s technical specs and material guidelines before selecting it for your project.

can porcelain tiles be used in the kitchen?

of course! porcelain tile is exceptionally durable. it can take on not only heat but also water, spills, and stains without showing major signs of wear and tear. so if you’re looking for a tile to go near the stove, behind the sink, or elsewhere, porcelain could be an ideal choice.

our watermark collection has graced many kitchen backsplashes — and our penny rounds would make for a beautiful (and unexpected) wall detail or flooring.

the heat resistance of porcelain tile vs ceramic tile

in general, porcelain tile is more heat resistant than other types of ceramic tile. again, this goes back to how the tile is made. because porcelain is formed from finer clay and fired in the kiln at higher temperatures, it is denser and less porous than other types of ceramic tile.

this isn’t to say that ceramic tile isn’t heat resistant — quite the contrary, in fact. our classic white subway tile, for example, can be installed on a stove backsplash or fireplace surround, two areas that see regular heat exposure.

expert tips for high-temperature applications

choosing tile for a high-temperature application is higher stakes than choosing tile for, say, a decorative accent wall. here are a few tips to keep in mind as you navigate your options.

choosing the right porcelain tiles

choosing the right tile for your project is a lot easier said than done — especially when it comes to porcelain tile, which is available in a vast array of shades, colors, and finishes. our first piece of guidance is this: follow your personal taste and aesthetic, rather than leaning on what you think you “should” do. this is your home, after all.

once you’ve narrowed down your options, check the tiles’ technical specs to make sure the tile will be suitable for the project you have in mind.

installation best practices

we’ve said it many times: your installation is only as good as your installer. so, partner with a good contractor when it comes time to have your porcelain tile installed. this is especially important when installing tile in an area that will be exposed to extreme heat. the right installer can take the precautions necessary to ensure you get a safe and long-lasting installation.

maintenance tips

how you maintain your porcelain tile largely depends on how it is finished. if the tile is glazed and has a glossy finish, for example, it will be easier to clean on an everyday basis thanks to the smooth surface. moreover, the tile won’t need to be sealed — you’ll only have the grouting to think about.

if, on the other hand, your tile is unglazed, maintenance will be a little more involved. even still, a mild neutral cleaner and a soft sponge are usually sufficient for more spills and stains. unglazed porcelain tile may have more involved sealing recommendations, as well. always check the tile’s material guidelines for the most accurate maintenance information.