Porcelain Tiling

Porcelain tiles, like ceramic tiles are manufactured and fired at high temperature, but unlike ceramic tiles they are made from porcelain clays which are denser and more durable than ceramic clays, therefore making them extremely hard wearing and ideal for areas of high traffic and outdoor use. Generally porcelain tiles are 'full-bodied' and classed as vitrified as they carry the same composite material throughout the entire tile so the same colour and pattern will be seen on the cut edges. Porcelain tiles generally come in 3 finishes; matt/natural finish, glazed and polished. Over the years polished finishes have become more popular than glazed finishes, but the process leaves the finish with thousands of tiny micropores that will absorb stains which can be extremely difficult to remove, so sealing the tile edges before installation and further sealing of the tile surface before and after grouting is recommended otherwise the grout and other substances may stain the tiles. Also they tend to be heavier than ceramic tiles of the same size so the correct adhesive should be used for fixing them and because of their density they can be difficult to cut and drill without the correct tools. However, the finished result will be stunning and give many years of service.