The juxtaposition of porcelain versus cork flooring reveals two very different materials. This makes things interesting when someone asks, “Which is better for my project?”
Porcelain flooring is the more expensive big brother of ceramic tile. It is difficult to install but provides a hard, durable material that comes in many styles and finishes.
Cork flooring on the other hand is a natural, renewable material that is easy to install. The visual impact is striking and unique. Cork provides a noticeable soft feel. That allows you to stand on it comfortably for extended periods.
One is hard, the other soft, but there is more to know. So, let’s spotlight some key aspects of these two interesting floor products and learn more about when and where you might use cork or porcelain flooring.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Porcelain Tile | Cork | |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Made from kaolin clay | Cork |
| Material Cost | More expensive than ceramic $3 - 6 for materials $12 - 15 including installation labor costs 25% more | $1 - 7 installed (floating floors cost $4 - 8) |
| Use | Common in kitchens and bathrooms, not ideal for areas with frequent impact | Great for playrooms, provides a soft, comfortable surface for walking and standing |
| Installation | Needs a special thin-set, takes more effort to install | Can be glued, snapped together with tongue-and-groove, or stuck on with a peel-and-stick method |
| Cleaning | Simple to clean, can be sanitized easily | Easy to maintain, naturally resistant to mold and rot due to suberin, hypoallergenic |
| Fire | Fireproof | Fire-resistant |
| Radient Flooring? | Yes | Yes |
| Subfloor | Heavy, needs a strong subfloor for support, installation is harder because of weight, surface must be level and smooth | Can be placed on uneven surfaces, can go on top of existing flooring like linoleum or wood, can also act as an underlayment for ceramic, wood, or stone |
| Footfall | Feels cold and hard when walked on | Naturally warm underfoot |
| Sound | Noisy | Absorbs sound, making it quieter |
| Finish | - Can resemble wood, steel, marble, granite, bamboo, or cork Glazed: Glass coating adds shine and texture glazed with glass or Unglazed: Comes in natural, polished, honed, textured/structured, or slip-resistant finishes | - Limited color choices, may have an uneven look - Sealed with wax, polyurethane, or commercial-grade finishes |
| Water Resistance | Resists moisture better than ceramic, a melted glass coating can make it waterproof | Must be sealed and resealed every five years, water exposure can cause swelling, curling, warping, or discoloration, but refinishing is possible |
| Stains | Hard to stain, especially when glazed, but grout lines need sealing and resealing | Absorbs stains easily, especially from oils or spills, may not be ideal for busy kitchens |
| Misc. | No standard labeling | Harvesting does not damage trees, hides small scratches, provides insulation |
| Durability | - Strong, dense, suitable for commercial use, can crack from impact - Rated in five classes (1 for walls, 2-3 for light use, 4 for medium use, 5 for heavy use) | - Punctures easily, not ideal for homes with pets - Heavy furniture can leave dents, best to use felt pads under chairs and cabinets |
| Fades? | No | Yes |
| Below Grade? | Yes | No |
| Flooring Guide | Tile Flooring Guide | Cork Flooring Guide |
Porcelain vs Cork Flooring: A Comparison Across 7 Factors
1. Composition
Cork
Cork comes from nature and is carefully removed from the bark of cork oak trees in the Mediterranean region. The process does not damage the trees, as they grow back a fresh layer of cork every nine years.
Wine corks are cut first, and the leftover material is reused to create flooring products. This makes cork a sustainable resource—something not all flooring types can boast.
Cork flooring is available in a few standard styles, including peel-and-stick, tongue and groove, and plain tiles that need contact cement for installation. The best choice depends on how you plan to use it.
Porcelain
Porcelain belongs to a special group of ceramics made under high pressure and extreme heat. The final product is glassy and dense with very low water absorption. It usually absorbs less than 0.5% of water, which is much better than the 4% found in standard ceramic flooring. These features make porcelain highly durable and suitable for wet areas, including outdoor spaces.
The exact composition changes from one product to another. Since there are no strict labeling rules in the industry, identifying genuine porcelain tile can be tricky. Still, a durability rating system exists to help buyers pick the right option for their needs. (Check the Durability section for details on this grading system.)
2. Finish and Shape
Cork
When first introduced, cork came in twelve-inch square tiles in shades of brown. But today, cork manufacturers stain and dye cork flooring to provide many different colors and appearances. They even print some products to look like hardwood.
It is a “natural” product and the particles of cork can have a significant impact on the finished look. Manufacturers vary the size of the particles, and the translucency of the applied color, to intentionally create one-of-a-kind grains to the finish.
Some products are supplied with a sealer to protect the cork from water, or you may have to apply a sealer on site. But either way, you will find that most products will require you to reapply a sealant every five years.
Other products may have a wax finish. Wax provides a nice shine, and imparts spill, scratch, and stain resistance. However, you will need to reapply wax every six to twelve months.
Another finish option is polyurethane, a clear coating that protects cork and provides stain and water protection. But it is more susceptible to scratching. And it needs to be reapplied every five to seven years.
Special commercial-grade coatings are available that add stain resistance and make surfaces strong enough for heavy foot traffic. These coatings are usually applied on-site and may not be easy for DIY enthusiasts to handle.
The other aspect of the finished look of cork is its shape. It is easy to cut into endless shapes, which can provide a distinctive, high-end look in your space. Combining creative shapes with different colors of cork, designers like the visual impact this product can make.
Porcelain
Porcelain comes in a wide range of styles and colors. It can even be made to resemble materials like marble, granite, steel, wood, bamboo, or cork. To better understand porcelain finishes, it helps to divide them into two main types: glazed and unglazed.
Some porcelain tiles have a colored glass layer on top, while others get an inkjet design before being covered with a clear glass coating. This glass layer makes glazed porcelain highly stain-resistant, though it can be slippery when wet.
Since the color or design sits on the surface of glazed porcelain, any chips or scratches will stand out when the base layer underneath becomes visible.
Since the color or design sits on the surface of glazed porcelain, any chips or scratches will stand out when the base layer underneath becomes visible.
Unglazed porcelain has color and patterns running through the entire tile, making scratches and small chips less noticeable. It also allows manufacturers to add surface textures that mimic wood or concrete while improving slip resistance. The surface can also be polished or honed for a smooth finish with different levels of shine.
Porcelain manufacturers provide “tiles” in many shapes; square tiles, planks, octagons, the options are too numerous to list them all here. Some of the shapes are necessary when porcelain is used to imitate another material, like hardwood, and can have a large impact on the overall visual impact of a room.
3. Installation
Cork
Installation is one of the major differences between cork and porcelain. One of the easiest options is peel-and-stick cork, which is great for DIY projects. However, in damp spaces like bathrooms or basements below ground level, these tiles may not hold up well. In such cases, you might need to use a cork floating floor or attach the tiles with contact adhesive. (Also Read: Best Flooring For Bathrooms, Best Flooring for Basements)
Cork flooring comes in different types, each needing a specific installation method. You should choose the best type for your space and how much moisture it gets.
Cutting cork is simple—you can use a utility knife or most saws that cut wood. This makes it an easy option for DIYers. In contrast, cutting porcelain requires a special masonry saw with a high-quality diamond blade. It also creates a lot of noise and dust.
Since cork is a natural product that comes from trees, it reacts to its surroundings like hardwood flooring. Before installation, you should let it adjust to the environment by opening the boxes and leaving them in the space for at least three days.
It is also common to apply a protective coating or sealer after installation. This helps cover and seal the seams between pieces. The type of finish you use affects how well the cork is protected. (For more details, see the section above about cork finishes.)
Porcelain
Porcelain is strong and long-lasting, but that makes it more difficult to install compared to other ceramic tiles.
Cutting porcelain is challenging because it is dense and can break or chip easily. Also, since it is harder than other types of ceramic, you need specific adhesives to set it properly. Your subfloor also needs careful preparation. Because of these factors, installing porcelain is an advanced DIY project, and many people prefer to hire a professional.
Some porcelain tiles are “rectified,” meaning their edges are trimmed after firing in a kiln. This makes every tile exactly the same size with edges free from imperfections, allowing for very thin seams between them. This reduces the amount of grout needed and makes the grout lines less noticeable.
Grout is a weak point in porcelain flooring. While thin joints limit the amount of grout used, some installations include epoxy grout for added strength.
Another helpful step is sealing the floor after installation. While the sealer may slightly improve the tile itself, the biggest benefit is for the grout. It helps resist water and stains, making the floor easier to maintain.
4. Durability
Cork
Cork is not hard like porcelain, but it is surprisingly durable. With the right finish you can use it in high traffic areas, from residential to commercial offices, stores, schools, and gyms.
Cork has benefits that porcelain lacks, especially its softness, which improves safety in playrooms and reduces noise from rolling mail carts in offices.
In kitchens, cork’s gentle surface makes it easier to stand for long cooking sessions. (Also Read: Best Flooring for Kitchens) If a can of vegetables falls, it won’t crack the cork like it might with porcelain tiles. However, cork is vulnerable to sharp objects, so knives or other pointed items can cause damage.
There are a few other durability concerns. Heavy furniture legs can leave dents, and pets may scratch the surface (Also Read: Best Flooring for Pets). Sunlight also causes cork to fade, so it may not be ideal for areas with constant sun exposure. If installed below ground level, extra steps are needed to handle moisture from concrete slabs.
One advantage of cork is that you can sand and refinish it to extend its life. However, floating cork floors have a laminated design, so refinishing may not be possible. If some tiles become worn, you can replace them. (Also Read: Laminate Flooring: Reviews, Best Brands & Pros vs. Cons)
Refinishing an entire cork floor restores its fresh look. The process takes effort, but it helps the floor last much longer.
Porcelain
Porcelain is a tough, durable, and stain-resistant option for flooring.
However, not everyone knows that it comes in five durability levels. A rating of one is meant for walls only, while two and three work well for areas with light foot traffic. A level four rating suits spaces with medium to high traffic, and level five is best for heavy use. Always pick the right porcelain type based on how much wear and foot traffic the area will get.
Porcelain has a strong reputation for holding up well in busy areas, but it has two weaknesses. First, it is brittle, so if you drop something heavy, the tile may crack or break. Fixing it means removing and replacing the broken tile, which takes time and effort.
Second, the grout is made from a different material and is harder to keep clean. It can stain, crack, or chip over time. Since grout is the weakest part of the floor, it should be sealed, and regular upkeep is necessary to keep it looking fresh. Sometimes, regrouting is needed to restore the floor’s appearance.
5. Cleaning
Glazed porcelain resists stains well and is easy to clean and maintain with regular sweeping and mopping. If you use a cleaner, make sure it will not damage the grout, as grout stains more easily and is harder to keep clean. (Also Read: How to Clean Tile Floors)
Many people find that mixing ¼ to ½ cup of vinegar with a gallon of water works well as a porcelain tile cleaner. Some even add a scent to leave behind a fresh smell. To clean the floor, vacuum with a tile-safe vacuum, mop using the cleaning mixture, scrub with a soft brush if needed, rinse with clean water, and dry with a cotton or microfiber towel. (Also Read: Best Vacuum for Tile Floors, Best Tile Mops)
Sealed cork flooring is simple to clean. Regular sweeping or vacuuming with a wood-safe vacuum helps prevent scratches and wear from dirt and debris. A damp or dry mop works well for cleaning, but too much water should be avoided. (Also Read: Best Hardwood Flooring Mops)
One benefit of cork is that it is hypoallergenic and contains a natural chemical called suberin, which stops mold from growing and repels insects. This means you will not have to use strong chemicals for disinfecting or mold removal.
If a cleaning product is necessary, choose one that is pH-balanced and safe for cork or wood. Stay away from ammonia or harsh, abrasive cleaners.
Unfinished cork can stain easily when exposed to oil-based substances, so spills should be wiped up right away. In areas where spills happen often, applying a protective finish, such as polyurethane, can help improve cork’s resistance to stains.
6. Cost
The cost of porcelain tiles differs widely since the final price depends on the tile type and the chosen pattern. High-quality tiles arranged in a complex design cost more than mid-range tiles placed in a simple, straight-line layout.
Overall, porcelain falls on the pricier side, costing about 10% to 25% more than regular ceramic tile. The total installation cost is often similar to that of an oak hardwood floor.
Cork flooring is more economical than porcelain when you consider cork is in the range of 30 to 50 percent less than its hard competitor. It is easier to install (cutting is easier, it is lighter in weight, no messy thin set, etc.) so there is a definite labor savings that shows when comparing prices ranges.
But keep in mind that for both materials, the colors and patterns used to create those striking, jaw-dropping floors will add to the installed cost.
Also Read: Tile Flooring Cost, Ceramic Tile Flooring Cost
7. Intangibles
With two very different materials, there are some things that are hard to classify. But some of this information might be meaningful to potential users, so we included it here as “intangibles.”
Cork is a natural insulator and does add R value to a floor. But the real advantage of this property is that it feels warm and natural to bare feet. One step with bare feet on a cold winter’s day, and you will appreciate the insulation value of cork. Also, you can use cork with radiant heat, just like porcelain. (Also Read: Heated Tile Flooring Cost)
Porcelain tile does not absorb much water, and this feature allows you to use it for exterior applications. For those “outdoor rooms” that are popular, porcelain would be a potential choice as a patio finish. No version of cork will work outdoors.
Cork contains suberin, a chemical that prevents mold growth and repels insects. Plus, cork naturally repels dust, hair, and other small particles. It is also hypoallergenic, so cork is easy on occupants with allergies or those who are sensitive to mold and dust. (Also Read: Best Vacuums for Allergies)
FAQ
The answer to this question depends on what you’re looking for and where you want to install the floors. Porcelain tiles are highly durable, won’t stain or scratch, aren’t slippery, and can stay in your home for many years. In addition, they’re excellent options for rooms exposed to water regularly, especially bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Cork is a beautiful flooring choice, but it punctures easily so it’s not suitable for high-traffic areas and homes with pets. It’s more affordable than porcelain tiles and warm under the feet; however, it stains easily.
Which is cheaper: porcelain or cork flooring?
In general, cork flooring is cheaper than porcelain. You can expect to pay between 30 and 50 percent less for cork flooring than you will for porcelain tiles for the same square footage. On average, one square foot of cork flooring costs between $1 and $7, a price that also includes the installation costs.
The average price for porcelain tiles is between $3 and $6 per square foot, but with installation costs you can expect to pay between $12 and $15 per square foot. The final price of your porcelain tile floor will depend on the pattern you choose, tile, brand, etc.
What adds more value: ceramic, porcelain, or cork flooring?
All three flooring choices will add value to your home; however, porcelain tiles are the most expensive ones, especially high-end options, and can stay in a home for more than 50 years. Ceramic tiles are also durable but aren’t as hard and as desirable as porcelain so they bring a slightly lower value. Cork is a natural flooring alternative; however, it isn’t as durable as tiles.
Cork keeps floors warm and adds “R value” to a floor because it’s an excellent insulator. It will keep your feet warm even when it’s cold outside.
What are the advantages of porcelain flooring?
Porcelain tiles are a very durable flooring alternative that can last for decades. These tiles come in many color and design variations, and you can find them at different price points. A huge advantage of porcelain flooring is that it’s resistant to scratching, stains, water, and frost.
Porcelain tiles are harder than ceramic, so they are an extremely durable option, ideal for high-traffic areas. These tiles are straightforward to maintain and don’t require much care, waxing, sealing, or expensive products. Porcelain floors won’t fade in time, and some of the latest designs are made to imitate wood.
The Verdict
Porcelain flooring is strong, dense, and long-lasting. It works well in busy areas, outdoor spaces, and damp environments. Plus, it has an attractive appearance.
On the downside, porcelain is costly, can be slippery when wet, and may chip or crack if hit hard. It is also tricky to install, which makes it challenging for some DIY enthusiasts.
Cork flooring has a distinct look and provides a soft, cushioned feel. It is warm underfoot and usually costs about one-third to half as much as a porcelain floor.
There is no need to seal or coat cork. However, sharp objects can pierce it, and it is not as water-resistant as porcelain. Still, some types of cork work in bathrooms if installed correctly.
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