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Varieties of porcelain stoneware: making the right choice

Porcelain stoneware is one of the most popular flooring materials around, and for good reason – it’s durable, easy to clean and comes in a wide variety of styles and designs. When selecting a porcelain stoneware, there are several varieties to consider: full-bodied, double-fired, digital print, glazed, and unglazed. Each type has distinct advantages, such as scratch and stain resistance, along with different aesthetics, from glossy to matte finishes. Other factors include maintenance requirements, cost, and texture. But the most important factor is making a choice that fits the individual’s lifestyle and suits the desired look. In summary, porcelain stoneware is an ideal choice for floor and wall covering, offering a range of varieties that provide powerful performance and chic design.

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If you didn’t know, then porcelain stoneware, considered one of the most modern finishing materials, was invented at the beginning of the twentieth century! It has not lost its relevance at all, it is in stable demand. Our tips site will tell you what the main varieties of porcelain stoneware exist, what you can choose.

Varieties of porcelain stoneware: making the right choice

Despite the name, there is no granite in porcelain stoneware. Press powder, from which this finishing material is made by semi-dry pressing and firing, includes kaolins (chamotte), white-burning clays, floodplains (field pegmatites and spars), quartz sand and water.

Of course, porcelain stoneware tiles can be of very different sizes – from large panels 120×360 centimeters for facing facades, up to 5×5 centimeters – practically mosaics – for finishing kitchen aprons and other small surfaces. Thickness can vary from 3 millimeters to 3 centimeters.

Porcelain stoneware tiles

Externally, porcelain stoneware can also be very different. It perfectly imitates natural materials, including stone, wood and even leather. So the choice is great. But we are interested in four main types of porcelain stoneware, which differ in manufacturing technology, strength and appearance..

Unpolished porcelain stoneware

Actually, this is pure porcelain stoneware, without further processing. The cheapest, because it just burns. At the same time, it is the most wear-resistant and hard. The surface is matt, rough, which makes this material the ideal choice for flooring. However, unpolished porcelain stoneware is also used for wall decoration. The micropores of the material are almost completely closed, they can be used anywhere, including for lining swimming pools and creating a platform around them – it is not afraid of moisture.

Unpolished porcelain stoneware

Semi-polished porcelain stoneware

This material is already undergoing the process of polishing the top layer, but partially. Only uneven areas are processed. As a result, polishing is adjacent to a matte surface, creating a very interesting, spectacular texture. Semi-polished porcelain stoneware is practically non-slip, therefore it is also ideal for decorating the floor in the kitchen, in the hallway, in the bathroom, on the veranda and on the terrace.

Semi-polished porcelain stoneware

Polished porcelain stoneware

Very effective, but less hard. After firing, the top layer is cut off and then polished. The required color depth and noticeable shine and gloss are achieved. If polished porcelain stoneware is laid on the steps of a staircase, special notches are made on it so that the surface is not so slippery. It is not recommended to use polished porcelain stoneware outdoors and around the pool – moisture will make it even more slippery, there is a risk of injury. Another disadvantage is that it is difficult to care for such a shiny surface, after washing the floor or walls, streaks may remain, you will have to rub everything dry. After laying, the tiles are cleaned with special means, it is advisable to regularly apply mastic on it for additional protection, because cutting off the top layer baked during firing makes it more susceptible to dirt and mechanical stress.

Polished porcelain stoneware

Polished porcelain stoneware

Glazed porcelain stoneware

The most beautiful, but at the same time the least resistant. Behaves on floors and walls almost like regular tiles. It is used only indoors, not suitable for outdoor conditions and premises with high traffic. The layer of glaze that is applied over the material will wear off over time. But the colors are very rich, any imitations are available, any patterns and ornaments.

Glazed porcelain stoneware

By the way, when laying on walls, the disadvantages of glazed porcelain stoneware are partially leveled, it is less exposed to mechanical stress. How to lay porcelain stoneware on the walls, the portal wrote in detail.

Glazed porcelain stoneware

We state: if high durability of porcelain stoneware is important for you, and you want to save money, choose the unpolished version. It is best used outdoors. And if for you the aesthetic, decorative effect is in the first place, the cladding will be carried out inside the house – you need polished or glazed porcelain stoneware.

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Comments: 3
  1. Tatum

    What are the factors to consider when choosing the appropriate variety of porcelain stoneware for different purposes?

    Reply
  2. Jaxon Anderson

    What are the key factors to consider when choosing porcelain stoneware? Do different varieties have specific advantages or disadvantages?

    Reply
    1. Nova Kelley

      When choosing porcelain stoneware, there are several key factors to consider. Firstly, consider the intended use of the material – whether it will be used for flooring, wall cladding, or outdoor applications. It’s important to look at the porosity and water absorption rate, as these factors will determine the material’s durability and resistance to stains and frost. Also, consider the technical characteristics such as hardness, slip resistance, and thermal shock resistance.

      Different varieties of porcelain stoneware have specific advantages and disadvantages. For example, full-body porcelain tiles are extremely durable and have consistent color throughout, making them ideal for heavy traffic areas. Glazed porcelain tiles, on the other hand, have a protective layer that adds design options but may be prone to chipping. Polished porcelain tiles offer a glossy finish but can be slippery when wet.

      In conclusion, when choosing porcelain stoneware, consider the intended use, technical characteristics, and the specific advantages and disadvantages of different varieties to ensure you select the best option for your needs.

      Reply
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