What Is a Porcelain Tile?
Porcelain tiles are made with white clay, sand, and feldspar. They are fired at a higher temperature than ceramic tiles, making them harder and denser, with a lower absorption rate and less tendency to chip, crack, or stain. These tiles are known for their versatility and come in a wide variety of finishes, from wood-effect to natural stone and even marble. Porcelain tiles are less expensive than natural stone and easy to cut into different shapes and sizes, making them a popular choice with designers undertaking bespoke home renovation projects. If you require durable and beautiful tiling that won’t blow your budget, porcelain could be a great choice.
What Are Porcelain Tiles Best Used For?
Because they are crafted from clay rather than natural stone, porcelain tiles are more likely to chip or break than, say, a granite alternative. However, because they are fired at extremely high temperatures and often glazed for extra protection, porcelain tiles can still be a great choice for many different home decor applications. Porcelain flooring tiles have become particularly popular over the last few years and are often used in high-footfall areas such as hallways and kitchens; they are great for this purpose due to being hardwearing and moisture resistant.Porcelain is also a good option for exterior decoration, as they can endure all weather conditions and withstand freezing temperatures or damp without cracking or staining.
Porcelain gives you a wood, stone, or marble effect look for a fraction of the price, and it’s easy to cut into small, unusually shaped tiles. This makes it a good option for bespoke kitchen backsplashes, focal points on fireplace surrounds, or even wall features.
Which Finishes Are Available for Porcelain Tiles?
Stone & Tile Shoppe stocks porcelain tiles in a variety of different finishes to suit your design aesthetic, including:
- Polished: A high-shine, and scratch and stain-resistant finish that is ideal for use in bathrooms or for kitchen splashbacks
- Matte: Wood effect porcelain tiles are perfect in a matte finish, as this evokes the natural grain of the plank and creates a warm, rustic feel
- Semi-Polished: These tiles provide a more realistic replication of the look achieved by certain natural stones, with their soft, subtle shine
- Unpolished: The perfect finish for a truly natural look, unpolished porcelain tiles evoke the feel of rougher stones like granite while having a slip-resistant surface that makes them ideal for flooring.
How Do I Choose the Right Porcelain Tile for My Project?
Offering an affordable way to evoke the look of natural stones and woods, porcelain tiles are durable, versatile, and a very popular choice for home and commercial renovation projects. If you aren’t sure which tile is right for your project, give our experts a call and we’ll be happy to help. Call us on 877-426-1500 or email sales@stoneandtileshoppe.com.
