Comfort Home Renovation is a one-stop service provider for renovation and electrical. Our wide range of services includes interior design, in-house carpentry and direct renovation services, We have our own trained workers in tiling and masonry works, painting, electrical, hacking, plumbing and more. Backed by years of experience, we strive to understand our customers' needs and deliver the BEST.

With the rising trend of greater storage and functional home designs, we have a team of space planners to build your happy home. We also work with various commercial and industrial partners in perfecting the ideal working space.

If you’re in the midst of renovating your home, you’ve probably found yourself overwhelmed by the different tile options. While it’s tempting to just consider aesthetics, you'll also want to consider the type of tile you’re choosing. Many homeowners in Singapore go immediately for homogeneous tiles, which is really a specific type of porcelain tile, but there are other options out there that might work better for you. Essentially, you have two main types of tile to choose from: ceramic and porcelain. So which one truly suits your vibe? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences to help you make the right choice when you hit up the tile shop.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:900/1200;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/10d1c6c6-dbd5-437e-bf30-073f9dc4f3cc-blob" width="900" height="1200"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/knock-knock-studio">Knock Knock Studio</a>&nbsp;<h3>How they are made</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Made from a more refined clay and other materials that are mixed to form a very fine consistency, &nbsp;and later pressed under extreme pressure. Fired at a higher temperature for an extended period. Result: Less porous, denser tile.&nbsp;</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Made from a less refined clay, sand and other raw materials, and fired at a lower temperature. Result: More porous, less dense tile.&nbsp;</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>Durability&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Tougher and can handle heavy foot traffic, great for busy areas of the home like the kitchen and foyer, great for those with kids or pets.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Less tough and lighter, and therefore more suited for walls rather than floors. More likely to crack when a heavy object is dropped on it.</li></ul>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:800/1200;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/b0f7d95b-9bdd-4ce3-8188-2a6d381091ea-blob" width="800" height="1200"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/comfort-home-renovation">Comfort Home Interior&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;<h3>Ease of installation</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Because of their density, cutting them incorrectly can lead to breakage or rough edges, leading to more tile wastage.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Easier to install. They are much easier to cut or drill into since they are softer, so if you have intricate designs or you would like to DIY, they are a more suitable choice.</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>Water absorption &nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Absorbs less water (less than 0.5%), making it perfect for wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and even balconies.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Absorbs more water (up to 3-7%), which means it can be more prone to staining and moisture damage over time. While it’s fine for walls and drier areas, it’s not ideal for consistently wet zones. Also, if your home faces the sea or is near the coast, I would definitely recommend going for porcelain tiles.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:800/1200;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/97d26674-c272-4b97-a018-69dbb64389ef-blob" width="800" height="1200"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/__typeface/">Typeface</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<blockquote>Searching for an interior designer for your home renovation? You've come to the right place. Just fill out the form <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/get-free-quote">here</a> and we'll connect you with up to 6 recommended firms that fit your needs perfectly.</blockquote>&nbsp;<h3>Appearance</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: There are many types of porcelain tiles to choose from, but they generally fall into three main categories: glazed porcelain tiles, unglazed porcelain tiles (also known as homogeneous tiles), and inkjet porcelain tiles. If you're looking for a tile that closely resembles marble or wood, inkjet porcelain tiles are the way to go, as they offer a more realistic appearance. Homogeneous tiles can be quite handy if you accidentally crack one, since the design runs through the entire tile, including the surface. Glazed porcelain tiles are a popular (and common) option, featuring a surface layer with an additional glaze that showcases the tile’s pattern and design.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: The surface of a ceramic tile feels different from the rest of the tile and is usually a bit more powdery on the back. Thanks to modern technology, ceramic tiles can often mimic the look of porcelain tiles, though their performance does set them apart. If you like the handmade, vintage look, ceramic tiles are a good option.</li></ul>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1464/976;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/14858ecd-dad3-471c-9f64-b674ef73ae56-blob" width="1464" height="976"></figure>Image: <a href="https://malford.com.sg/">Malford</a>&nbsp;<h3>Cost</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Pricier, but their durability may make them more valuable in the long term. Prices usually start from around S$3 psf.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Generally the more budget-friendly option. Ceramic tiles start from around S$1.5 psf.</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>Maintenance</h3><ul><li>Porcelain Tiles: Require less maintenance because they’re more resistant to stains and moisture. Plus they hold up to scratches and scuffs better.</li><li>Ceramic Tiles: Might need more frequent cleaning due to their higher porosity. They’re more prone to absorbing spills.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:800/1200;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/43881234-275b-4305-86ea-37d136afb02b-blob" width="800" height="1200"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/fifth-avenue-interior">Fifth Avenue Interior</a>&nbsp;

What's the Difference Between Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles? 

Instead of rushing to buy all the latest fancy gadgets for your new kitchen, it's best to start with the basics. If you're new to cooking, take some time to experiment and figure out which appliances you really (REALLY) need and whether cooking is something you truly enjoy, or if dabao-ing is more your style. It's better to avoid ending up with expensive kitchen gadgets that will just end up collecting dust at the back of your cabinets.I've outlined here a few kitchen appliances that can be helpful for your first home, along with tips on what to consider when purchasing them.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h4>Microwave Oven OR Toaster Oven OR Air Fryer for reheating foods</h4>&nbsp;If you're not a fan of eating leftovers or just prefer reheating on the stove, feel free to skip this entire section. However, if you do rely on reheating food, consider investing in a microwave oven, toaster oven, or air fryer for added convenience.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:810/1080;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/8e52f673-f302-4328-ad50-dd112c55bbcc-blob" width="810" height="1080"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/anhans-interior-design">Anhans Interior Design</a>&nbsp;Want to keep leftovers moist? Like reheating liquids e.g. soup? A microwave oven should be your go-to. Microwave ovens are also pretty multifunctional nowadays. Some can grill and steam on top of reheating foods.For a crispier texture for your food however, you may want to go for a toaster oven or an air fryer instead. The toaster oven is also a more budget option to built-in ovens, which aren’t absolutely necessary unless you are an avid baker or if you love to roast foods or cook them in the oven frequently (see last section of article). I’ve also used an air fryer in lieu of a built-in oven often—they are surprisingly awesome for cooking salmon.&nbsp;<h4>Rice Cooker for cooking rice or one-pot meals</h4>&nbsp;With rice a staple in many households in Singapore, a rice cooker should be considered part of your kitchen appliance starter kit. They are also super convenient for whipping up quick one-pot rice meals on hectic weekdays—just toss in all your ingredients with the rice and let the cooker do the work. Some people even use them for making congee and soups.&nbsp;When you’re in the market for a rice cooker, you'll find some that are more budget-friendly and simple, just focused on cooking rice without any extra bells and whistles. These usually come with just the ‘cook’ and ‘keep warm’ functions. With these rice cookers, you'll need to pay more attention to the water to rice ratio or you’ll be very acquainted with burnt rice.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:864/1080;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/976d3a5b-2179-4c7b-9706-e765f4df8e7f-blob" width="864" height="1080"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/couple-abode">Couple Abode</a>Then there are rice cookers that come with fancy buttons, different cooking programmes for various types of rice, and even play a little jingle when your rice is ready. While these models still require the right water to rice ratio, they are a bit more forgiving thanks to their programmed settings. Ones that will adjust temperature and time to account for the differences are commonly known as “fuzzy logic” rice cookers. In my experience testing a few different models, I’ve noticed that these fancier rice cookers tend to take a bit longer to cook as well.&nbsp;Another thing to look out for is the material for the inner pot. A non-stick coating would be useful for clean-up; just make sure you use a wooden rice paddle to scoop rice to avoid scratching the surface. If you are worried about the effects of the non-stick coating, there are ones in the market that carry stainless steel inner pots. These have a higher tendency of sticking (so make sure your ratios are accurate!), but they are able to cook the rice faster and a bit more evenly.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h4>Hob for general cooking</h4>&nbsp;A hob is a no-brainer in your first kitchen. With a hob, you'll be able to do a whole multitude of cooking, from steaming and boiling to reheating or grilling. That also means eliminating the need for multiple appliances.When deciding between an induction hob and a gas hob, it really comes down to personal preference. Induction hobs heat up your pan quickly and are easy to clean due to their flat surface, but they require cookware with a magnetic base. Gas hobs offer more versatility for cooking a variety of meals and are a better option if you like to slow-boil soups.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1080/720;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/2236c2f1-bc22-4ddb-8462-edf8cb5a2a36-blob" width="1080" height="720"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/the-interior-maison">The Interior Maison</a>&nbsp;The 2-burner or 3-burner question. From my own experience, a 2-burner should do the trick for most home cooks unless you’re really good at juggling multiple dishes at once. With a 3-burner hob, things can also get a bit tight (unless you get a hob with a larger width) so you might have to use smaller pots and pans to make sure everything fits in at once.In terms of size, opt for a smaller width (50-70 cm) if you have a small kitchen. Larger ones (more than 90 cm) work better for those with more countertop space. Never underestimate the need for necessary landing space e.g. for food prep, setting down hot dishes!&nbsp;<h4>Hood for those who cook every day</h4>&nbsp;Confession: I’ve actually managed fine without a kitchen hood by using a powerful fan to clear out the smoke and grease. However, having a kitchen hood can be a worthwhile investment for your first kitchen, especially if your space is poorly ventilated or you tend to cook a lot of meals that emit a lot of grease and smoke.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1080/724;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/f327d9d3-7469-4c00-bd4e-535cace6753a-blob" width="1080" height="724"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/space-factor">Space Factor</a>&nbsp;What to look out for when shopping for a kitchen hood? Consider their air extraction rates, which are typically measured in cfm (cubic feet per minute) or m³/h (cubic meter per hour). You’ll need a strong hood with extraction rate of over 350 cfm or above 600 m³/h if you do heavy cooking.There are basically two different kinds of kitchen hoods to pick from: ductless and ducted. Ductless hoods, also known as recirculating hoods, use carbon filters to get rid of odours and smoke before circulating clean air back into the kitchen. Ducted hoods, on the other hand, filter air and push it outside through a ducted piping system, making them more efficient.&nbsp;&nbsp;<blockquote>In search of an interior designer for your dream kitchen? Just fill out the form <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/get-free-quote">here</a> and we'll connect you with up to 5 recommended firms that fit your needs perfectly.</blockquote>&nbsp;<h4>Water Dispenser OR Electric Kettle for hot water</h4>&nbsp;If you're someone who always needs hot water on demand, a water dispenser will be a useful appliance to add to your arsenal. But if you're okay with waiting a few minutes or don't always need hot drinks, then an electric kettle (usually much cheaper) will work just fine.&nbsp;Some water dispensers even have specific water temperature settings, which can make it a lot more convenient to brew coffees or teas that need a particular temperature. Green teas for instance work best with water temperatures at around 80 deg C.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:720/1080;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/dc6cdf85-23ff-48e0-9c60-8537829aa0d3-blob" width="720" height="1080"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/chengyi-interior-design">Chengyi Interior Design</a>The downsides of having a water dispenser is the need for more frequent maintenance and the constant need to keep it plugged in (may lead to more electricity usage). You'll have to remember to change the filters every few months (usually between 6 to 12 months), depending on how often you use it. Plus, they can be a bit bulky and take up more space compared to traditional kettles.When you're shopping for a water dispenser, it's important to consider whether you prefer a tankless option that connects directly to your water supply or a model with a tank that needs manual refilling when it runs low. Don't forget to check for self-cleaning options to make maintaining your appliance easier, and look for child-safety features if you have little ones at home.&nbsp;<h4>Blender OR Immersion Blender OR Food Processor for food prep</h4>&nbsp;When deciding between a blender, immersion blender, or food processor, consider your cooking habits.&nbsp;Blenders and immersion blenders are great for making smoothies, soups and purees, with immersion blenders being easier to clean and more space-efficient. Some immersion blenders also come with various attachments like a whisk, which may be useful if you are thinking of whipping cream for baked goods.Food processors are great for grating, shredding, and chopping food, with some also able to make purees (though not as smoothly as a blender) and kneading dough. The downside is that food processors can have several parts to wash, so they can be a hassle during cleanup. If you have a smaller household or don't cook often, I recommend skipping the food processor and just use a knife for everything.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:720/1080;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/2b7058b9-c186-4a47-b2a7-028d2155329e-blob" width="720" height="1080"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/emie-design">Emie Design</a>There are multifunctional appliances out there that can do the work of both a blender and a food processor, but personally, I find them to be a little too expensive and big. And to be honest, we probably wouldn't even use all of their features enough to make it worth the money. When you're starting out in the kitchen, it really is best to just keep things simple and stick to the basics.&nbsp;<h4>Dishwasher for saving time during clean-up</h4>&nbsp;If you're not a fan of washing dishes by hand, you might want to think about getting a dishwasher. Growing up seeing my grandmothers and mother wash their dishes by hand had me believing that a dishwasher isn’t exactly clean and is a waste of water and electricity. But as I've delved a little bit into how a dishwasher works, I've found that's not necessarily the case.&nbsp;In fact, dishwashers often utilise temperatures higher than room temperature depending on the setting you use, with some going up to 70 deg C to allow for better sanitisation. Some models can even be a more water-efficient option compared to handwashing, especially if you are washing dishes under a running tap.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:878/1080;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/5cf2c9ff-6a2b-40d5-a795-eb1ad22b0b3b-blob" width="878" height="1080"></figure>Design: Right Angle Studio&nbsp;When it comes to choosing a dishwasher, there are different types to consider. If you live in a small condo or HDB, a countertop dishwasher could be a great choice. It's also convenient if you plan to get a dishwasher after your home renovation as it doesn't need installation.Integrated dishwashers are ideal for those who prefer a seamless look in their kitchen, as they blend in with the cabinets, while freestanding dishwashers (like the one seen in the image) can stand alone and are a good option for those who don't want to make too many changes to their existing cabinets.Most dishwashers come in standard 60-cm widths, and has around 12-15 place settings . For reference, one place setting is usually made up of about 10 items or what one person would use in a meal (large plate, small plate, bowl, cup, saucer, and a set of cutleries). Smaller countertop/portable dishwashers are typically around 40-45 cm in width, and have a smaller capacity of around 3 to 6 place settings.Besides the standard cleaning programme, other useful programmes to look out for include a delicate setting or a specific programme just for glassware as well as drying functions. For the drying features, I recommend looking out for ones that make use of residual or natural air in order to save a bit of electricity.&nbsp;<h4>Refrigerator for food storage</h4>&nbsp;Just like the hob, the refrigerator is an obvious appliance in your starter kit. Things to consider? Essentially, your grocery and cooking habits as well as household size. If you're not a frequent cook or don’t bulk buy or stock up on groceries for the week, then there’s no need to splurge on a large fridge that takes up too much space. What about a case for a bigger fridge? Maybe you like to food prep to save time, or you have a habit of freezing food.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:1080/812;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/308a8012-5b2b-47cb-9d13-3a0247077197-blob" width="1080" height="812"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/fineline-design">Fineline Design</a>&nbsp;There are a few types of refrigerators to consider. For those with smaller kitchens, the top-freezer or bottom-freezer will likely be the most obvious choices. Top-freezer refrigerators are typically cheaper, although you may find it a bit more inconvenient to access items in the refrigerator. This is a great choice for those who tend to use the freezer a bit more. Bottom-freezer models are better for folks who like access to the fridge section a bit more.Larger kitchens or households who cook often can look at side-by-side refrigerators or the french door as they are typically larger and have various compartments allowing for better organisation. Access to both the fridge and freezer is easy for the side-by-side, while the french door refrigerator tends to have a very generous fridge section with a bottom drawer dedicated to the freezer section.&nbsp;<h4>Maybe: Built-in Oven for bakers or home cooks that already use the oven a lot</h4>&nbsp;Investing in a built-in oven is a relatively big decision. I've seen many homeowners buy one and then never actually use it. Before committing to purchasing an oven, it's important to think about whether you'll actually use it. An oven that sits unused for a while can sometimes cause the power to trip when you finally decide to turn it on.If you’re just planning on reheating, keeping food warm or the occasional baked pasta, you might want to consider getting a microwave, toaster oven (no installation needed), or an air fryer instead (see the first point).Built-in ovens are big capacity after all, so think about whether you'll be making food or baked goods in large sheet pans, roasting entire chickens, or baking multiple dishes at once. They are also great for preparing meals for a large family or hosting gatherings.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:719/1080;" src="https://d213h1b7vxzzl3.cloudfront.net/editor/8c9d1457-a5d0-4bbd-a233-322a04bda870-blob" width="719" height="1080"></figure>Design: <a href="https://www.renonation.sg/professional/comfort-home-renovation">Comfort Home Interior</a>&nbsp;Most built-in ovens come in standard widths of around 60 cm, but their capacities can vary. Rather than relying on numbers alone, head down to the store and see how much space the inner cavity actually has. The inner cavity of an oven can be very different despite similar capacities in their specs because of how manufacturers design their ovens. For larger households, there are built-in ovens with 90-cm widths, while compact kitchens can look out for ovens with 45-cm widths.If you have a bit more renovation budget to spare, consider if you'll want to splurge on a self-cleaning oven to help with kitchen cleanup. Pyrolytic ovens are a common type of self-cleaning oven. They come with a feature that lets you run the oven at a very high temperature to burn off any food spills or grease during the cooking process. These leftover food bits get turn into ash, which you can then easily wipe away with a cloth when the cleaning cycle is finished and the oven has cooled down.&nbsp;Another type of self-cleaning oven are catalytic ovens that are less expensive. These come with liners on the inside that are chemically treated to absorb grease automatically. Through high heat (above 200 deg C), oxidation takes place, letting the grease residue burn off or soften over time, thus making it easier to wipe down the oven after use. Depending on your level of maintenance, the liners may need to be replaced when the chemical treatment wears off or gets damaged.

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