Over the past few years, porcelain stoneware has gained a reputation for being one of the most innovative and versatile materials in the construction sector and interior-design world.
Today porcelain stoneware is the ultimate choice for both residential and business projects due to cutting-edge manufacturing techniques that guarantee not only that it is extremely hard-wearing but also that it can be personalised in endless different ways.
Enhanced by eco-sustainable production processes and vanguard digital solutions, the latest on-trend products are revolutionising the very concept of flooring, delivering aesthetics, functionality and superb levels of technical performance. So, let’s take a closer look at this remarkable material and its features
Porcelain stoneware: a pioneering product
Porcelain stoneware is made by firing a mixture of lean clay and other natural elements at extremely high temperatures. This sintering process gives the material a compact structure, low porosity and a low water-absorption coefficient (less than 0.5%), as defined by UNI EN standard 14411. These hi-tech properties mean that not only is it waterproof but also exceptionally resistant to chemicals, abrasion, temperature changes and frost. Clearly, this translates into a highly durable product that withstands the test of time.
Technological innovation & digital printing
Recent developments in the digital-printing field have opened up new perspectives for porcelain stoneware; it can now be made to look convincingly like a series of natural materials, such as wood, stone, marble and concrete. This new technology allows manufacturers to create textures, marbling, graining and finishes that were once the preserve of natural materials. Now, customers get the beauty of nature and the technical advantages of stoneware. Digital printing can now achieve such levels of accuracy that premium-quality personalised solutions are available, providing architects and designers with unprecedented creative freedom and allowing them to transform settings into unique elegant spaces.
Technical aspects and format variety
One of the strengths of porcelain stoneware is the scope it provides and the broad range of formats and finishes that can cater for any project requirements:
Formats and Dimensions
Porcelain stoneware tiles are available in a great number of sizes, from a classic 60×60 cm to larger cuts like 120×120 cm which are in vogue now; there are even rectangular shapes (for instance 120×60 cm) as well as hexagonal and irregular options. The chosen format depends entirely on the area to be floored and the desired aesthetic outcome: bigger sizes contribute to a sense of continuity and spaciousness, while smaller ones are ideal for non-standard layouts or projects that envisage decorative patterning on the ground.
Thicknesses and Finishes
The thickness of porcelain stoneware flooring can be varied to suit particular needs, and will prove to be more than stout enough for high foot-traffic areas or outdoor surfaces. There is a variety of finishes: glossy, satin-effect or matt, all of which reflect the light to a different extent and contribute to defining the atmosphere of the setting. There are even non-slip versions – a huge advantage for outdoor areas or damp rooms (bathrooms and kitchens) where a safe footing is crucial.
Resistance and Durability
In addition its low porosity, porcelain stoneware boasts outstanding mechanical resistance, often certified by special rating systems, such as the PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) scale which attests its suitability for use in environments prone to high foot traffic. Its resistance to wear and tear makes it an ideal candidate for residential and commercial projects where heavy-duty use and mechanical stress are the order of the day.
Distinguishing characteristics and advantages
Porcelain stoneware offers numerous advantages, putting it in a league of its own compared to other types of flooring:
Aesthetics and Colour Resistance
Advanced digital-printing techniques enable stoneware to perfectly reproduce the appearance of natural materials without any discolouration or fading over time. Colour stability is a key consideration for premises flooded with strong sunlight or subject to changeable weather.
Simple maintenance and efficient cleaning
A stoneware surface is easy to wipe down and requires no special stain-removal procedures. Its ability to stand up to chemical attack and resist liquid penetration means less frequent maintenance. Basically, customers enjoy impeccable looks with minimum effort.
Versatile potential
Porcelain stoneware will lend itself to any setting, whether it be outdoor or indoor. It is commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, lounges and even on business premises like restaurants and offices being suitable for heavy-duty use and able to withstand weathering. It can also be laid on top of existing flooring, which makes it an ideal solution for refurbishments and renovation work.
Efficiency and rapid installation
Before porcelain stoneware is laid, the chosen surface must be carefully prepared. Specific good-quality primers, adhesives or cement mortar must be used, but once this has been done, you can rely on the stoneware surface to outperform and last for a long time. Modern laying techniques guarantee impeccable results with even grouting lines and tile joints designed to soak up minor structural movements.
Applications and innovative solutions
The sheer versatility of porcelain stoneware makes it suitable for myriad applications:
Indoor settings
Once typically the preferred solution for kitchens and bathrooms, stoneware is now being increasingly used in living rooms, bedrooms and on business premises. As modern tiles can emulate the appearance of wood grain or marbling, they provide a chic alternative to parquet slats or natural marble floors; and they also offer the additional advantage of low maintenance and greater durability.
Outdoor spaces
Being impervious to water and frost-resistant, porcelain stoneware is ideal for terraces, balconies, gardens and garden footpaths. The non-slip versions will ward off the danger of accidental skidding while providing a curated aesthetic and uniform surface outside as well.
Commercial solutions and high-traffic requirements
Stores, shopping arcades and areas open to the public all call for materials that will stand up to heavy-duty loads. With its high mechanical resistance and ability to keep looking good over time, porcelain stoneware is often the best choice in these cases because it strikes a perfect balance between functionality and fine design.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
An acute awareness of the importance of sustainability has led porcelain stoneware manufacturers to invest in eco-friendly production processes. Modern methods allow for low energy consumption and a reduced impact on the environment without any loss in high-quality standards. Some companies use recycled materials in the clay mixtures, mitigating the environmental footprint of the product even more. Furthermore, extreme durability and low maintenance requirements further boost the environmental virtuousness of stoneware because there is less need for tile replacement or repair work.
The superstar status of porcelain stoneware on the flooring landscape stems from burgeoning levels of interest in innovation and respect for the environment. It ticks all the right boxes and is set to contribute to a future where functionality and aesthetics come together harmoniously to create visually impactful and top-end settings.
At DOMOTEX, sector professionals will have the chance to learn about the latest developments in the field of flooring and find out about cutting-edge solutions that meet the needs of a constantly evolving sport.
