While porcelain has a history that goes back centuries – it was developed by the Chinese during the Yuan dynasty in the fourteenth century – it has become an increasingly popular material for a multitude of surfaces in the home. In other words, it’s by no means a modern material, but it’s a relative newcomer as a surfacing material. From indoor and outdoor floor tiles and wall tiles, to kitchen benches and bathroom vanities, porcelain is proving its power. Here are several ways to take advantage of the possibilities of porcelain in your home.
Indoor floor tiles
Porcelain floor tiles are denser and harder wearing than ceramic tiles due to the pressing and firing process. Porcelain is fired at higher temperatures and uses a more refined clay mixture than traditional ceramic tiles. This means the finish is harder and the material denser, giving a more sophisticated and long-lasting finish that is ideal for high-traffic areas. An additional bonus is that porcelain tiles tend to be stain resistant and therefore low-maintenance.
Porcelain is also less porous than ceramic tiles – generally with a water absorption rate of 0.5 per cent or less – which makes it suitable for wet areas.
Porcelain is also less porous than ceramic tiles – generally with a water absorption rate of 0.5 per cent or less – which makes it suitable for wet areas.
Porcelain can be manufactured to take on a variety of looks including timber, travertine, limestone and marble, as pictured here.
Outdoor floor tiles
All the reasons that make porcelain tiles a great choice for indoor flooring also apply outdoors. They have high slip-resistance, which makes the paving suitable for areas around swimming pools. It’s also a durable material that won’t crack under freezing-cold temperatures.
Wall tiles
Bathroom walls can also benefit from porcelain tiles as they are non-porous. This makes them hygienic and easy to clean and maintain, even in shower areas.
Porcelain wall tiles are a versatile option, available in a wide variety of finishes, colours and sizes. From soft and natural hues to matt and gloss finishes, or Italian marble-look tiles (as pictured), there is no doubt porcelain is a sophisticated choice.
Decorative tiles
Porcelain tiles can be used as a decorative feature in bathrooms and kitchens on floors, walls and splash backs. These glazed porcelain tiles have a patchwork of motifs that add pattern, dimension and shape to the bathroom wall and floor.
Splashback
Since porcelain can be produced in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, it can also be used for vertical surfaces such as a kitchen splashback. Porcelain tiles can be used for a more decorative splashback, or choose a slab option for a more seamless look.
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