Porcelain tiles are widely regarded as one of the most durable floor tiles available today. Known for their strength, elegance, and versatility, they are a popular choice for modern flooring solutions in homes, commercial spaces, and outdoor areas. Yet, despite being classified as long lasting tiles, porcelain tiles can sometimes crack—often leaving homeowners and builders confused.

If porcelain tiles are so strong, why do they crack?

The answer lies not in the tile alone, but in installation practices, surface preparation, and usage conditions. At HVERSE, we believe that understanding the why is just as important as knowing the how. This guide breaks down the main causes of porcelain tile cracking and, more importantly, how to avoid it.

Understanding Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are manufactured using refined clay fired at extremely high temperatures. This process results in low water absorption tiles with a dense, compact body. Compared to ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles are:

• More resistant to moisture

• Highly stain resistant tiles

• Suitable for heavy traffic flooring

• Effective as indoor outdoor tiles

Because of these properties, porcelain tiles are commonly used in living areas, kitchens, bathrooms, corridors, terraces, and commercial spaces.

However, strength does not make them immune to cracking.

Common Reasons Why Porcelain Tiles Crack

1. Poor Subfloor Preparation

One of the leading causes of cracking is an uneven or unstable subfloor. Porcelain tiles are rigid by nature and do not flex. If the surface beneath them has:

• Voids or hollow spots

• Uneven levels

• Weak screed or curing issues

the tile absorbs stress over time, eventually leading to cracks.

Key Insight: Even the most scratch resistant tiles can fail if the base beneath them is compromised.

2. Incorrect Tile Adhesive or Application

Porcelain tiles require high-quality, polymer-modified adhesives designed for dense materials. Using low-grade mortar or applying adhesive incorrectly (such as spot fixing instead of full-bed fixing) can create air pockets beneath the tile.

These hollow areas become pressure points, especially in heavy traffic flooring, causing tiles to crack under load.

3. Lack of Expansion Joints

Tiles expand and contract due to temperature changes. Without proper expansion joints:

• Stress builds up

• Tiles push against each other

• Cracks appear, often diagonally

This issue is especially common in large areas and indoor outdoor tiles exposed to sunlight and weather variations.

4. Excessive Load or Impact

While porcelain tiles are designed to withstand daily use, they are not indestructible. Dropping heavy objects, placing point loads (like metal furniture legs without pads), or using them in areas not designed for such loads can cause surface or structural cracks.

This is often mistaken as a tile defect, when in reality, it’s a usage mismatch.

5. Structural Movement

Buildings naturally settle over time. If the structure moves due to foundation shifts or vibrations, tiles installed without flexibility measures can crack. This is more common in new buildings where the structure has not fully stabilized.

6. Poor Installation Practices

Rushed installations, improper leveling, incorrect spacing, or ignoring manufacturer guidelines can all contribute to premature tile failure. Porcelain tiles demand precision—any shortcut increases the risk of cracking.

How to Avoid Cracks in Porcelain Tiles

1. Ensure a Strong, Level Subfloor

Before installation, the subfloor should be:

• Fully cured

• Structurally sound

• Level and clean

For best results, a professional screed or leveling compound should be used. This creates a stable foundation that supports the tile evenly, preserving its status as one of the most long lasting tiles available.

2. Use the Right Adhesive

Always use adhesives specifically designed for porcelain tiles. Full-bed adhesive application ensures:

• Uniform load distribution

• No hollow spots

• Improved durability

This is essential for maintaining porcelain tiles as true durable floor tiles.

3. Install Expansion Joints Properly

Expansion joints should be placed:

• Around room perimeters

• Between large tiled areas

• At structural joints

These joints absorb movement and prevent stress buildup, especially in modern flooring solutions designed for large, seamless spaces.

4. Choose the Right Tile for the Right Space

Not all porcelain tiles are identical. Consider:

• Thickness

• PEI rating (wear resistance)

• Slip resistance

For high-footfall areas, select tiles specifically designed for heavy traffic flooring. For outdoor areas, ensure tiles are frost-resistant and suitable as indoor outdoor tiles.

5. Use Skilled Installers

Even premium tiles can fail if installed incorrectly. Skilled installers understand spacing, leveling, adhesive coverage, and curing times—critical factors in preventing cracks.

At HVERSE, we always emphasize that tile performance is a combination of product quality and professional installation.

6. Protect Tiles After Installation

Avoid heavy loads or furniture placement immediately after installation. Allow adequate curing time so adhesives and grout can reach full strength.

Are Cracks Always Visible?

Not always. Hairline cracks may develop beneath the surface due to stress and only become visible later. This is why preventive measures are far more effective than post-installation fixes.

Why Porcelain Tiles Are Still a Smart Choice

Despite the possibility of cracking under poor conditions, porcelain tiles remain one of the most reliable modern flooring solutions available today. When installed correctly, they offer:

• Exceptional durability

• Low maintenance

• High resistance to stains and scratches

• Long-term performance in both residential and commercial spaces

Their reputation as stain resistant tiles and low water absorption tiles makes them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor applications.

Final Thoughts

Cracking in porcelain tiles is rarely due to the tile itself. In most cases, it’s the result of improper installation, poor surface preparation, or incorrect usage. With the right planning, materials, and expertise, porcelain tiles can deliver decades of performance without issues.

At HVERSE, we believe flooring is an investment—not just in design, but in durability. By understanding why porcelain tiles crack and how to avoid it, you ensure your space benefits from truly long lasting tiles that stand the test of time.