Tile Information

Sourced from all over the world, porcelain tile has come to be recognized as a decorative, reliable and versatile option for a variety of household and commercial applications. This hardy tile offers unique practical benefits as well as a classy and refined look. Take a look here at why you should consider porcelain tile.

Porcelain tile is a subset of ceramic tile, which is becoming better and better known. It shares the elegant nature of china earthenware with ceramics noted durability and hardness Characterized by its dense body which renders it very moisture resistant, porcelain tile is often used in bathrooms where high moisture levels are a matter of course, and is the most recommended variety of ceramic tile for these types of areas. In addition to its attractive look and durability, porcelain tile can be used as either flooring tile or wall tile. There are also many glazes and colours that can be added according to your design requirements. Varieties of porcelain tile are available in glazed and non-glazed styles much like other types of ceramic tile, the glazed tile being a little bit easier to keep clean, and unglazed tiles offering a slip resistant quality that may make them more suitable in for use in certain areas.

Low water absorption rate of porcelain tile

Porcelain tile is made from a specific type of clay which has a lower water absorption rate (less than 0.5%) than many varieties of ceramic tile. This allows the porcelain tile to be used in places where it is important that the tile not be affected by overt wetness. Porcelain tile is tough, often resistant to frost as well, although some types of porcelain tile are more adept at this than others. It’s always a good idea to read manufacturers instructions to make sure that the type of porcelain tile you get is suitable for varying outdoor climate factors. In any case, porcelain tile has a long track record in areas where moisture resistance, slip resistance (in the case of unglazed porcelain tile specifically) and hypoallergenic surfaces are paramount.

Porcelain tile: very hard

Porcelain tile is baked at higher temperatures in the kiln, more so than many types of ceramic tile; the higher the temperature, the harder the tile. A good idea with regard to foot traffic issues is to double check the hardness rating (PEI rating) that measures types of ceramic tile, to make sure that your porcelain tile is suitable for the amount of foot traffic you are expecting. This rating varies between each type of porcelain tile, so its best to confirm this information before you buy.
Given the hardy nature of porcelain tile, the tiles may prove to be harder to cut than most ceramic tile. There are several types of saws and other cutting implements that are specifically designed for cutting through such hard surfaces. Porcelain tile often is shipped after it has undergone a process of calibration, and will minimize the need for any on-site cutting for the purpose of a level installation. In this sense, quality porcelain tile is manufactured with the idea that installation should be relatively easy, assuming a certain level of experience. Once you have installed your porcelain tile, it will prove to be an extremely wear resistant surface, just because it is such a hard material.

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