Porcelain Floor & Wall Tiles: A Guide for Homeowners

If you are looking for a versatile, durable and stylish flooring or wall covering option for your home, you might want to consider porcelain tiles. Porcelain tiles are a type of ceramic tiles that are made from a refined clay mixture and fired at very high temperatures. This makes them harder, denser and more resistant to moisture, stains, scratches and wear than ordinary ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles come in a wide range of colours, sizes, shapes, finishes and designs, so you can create any look you want for your indoor or outdoor spaces. In this blog post, we will explain everything you need to know about porcelain tiles, including their pros and cons, how they are made, how they can be used and installed in your home.

The Pros and Cons of Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles have many advantages over other types of flooring or wall covering materials. Some of the benefits of porcelain tiles are:

They are very durable and can last for decades with proper care and maintenance.
They are easy to clean and maintain, as they do not absorb dirt, dust, bacteria or odours.
They are water-resistant and frost-resistant, making them suitable for wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and outdoor spaces.
They are fire-resistant and do not emit toxic fumes when exposed to high temperatures.
They are environmentally friendly and recyclable, as they are made from natural materials and do not contain harmful chemicals or glues.

However, porcelain tiles also have some drawbacks that you should be aware of before choosing them for your home. Some of the disadvantages of porcelain tiles are:

They are more expensive than other types of ceramic tiles or natural stone tiles.
They are heavier and harder than other types of tiles, which means they require more skill and equipment to cut, drill and install.
They can be slippery when wet, especially if they have a polished or glossy finish.
They can be cold and hard underfoot, which may not be comfortable for some people.

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How Porcelain Tiles Are Made

Porcelain tiles are made from a mixture of fine clay, sand, feldspar and other minerals that are shaped into tiles and fired at very high temperatures (around 1200°C) in a kiln. This process makes the tiles vitrified, which means they become glass-like and non-porous. Porcelain tiles can be either glazed or unglazed. Glazed porcelain tiles have a layer of coloured or patterned liquid glass applied on the surface before firing, which gives them a shiny or matte finish and protects them from stains and scratches. Unglazed porcelain tiles do not have any coating on the surface, which means they have the same colour and texture throughout the tile body. Unglazed porcelain tiles are more resistant to wear and abrasion than glazed ones, but they may require sealing to prevent staining.

How Porcelain Tiles Can Be Used and Installed in Your Home

Porcelain tiles can be used for both flooring and wall covering applications in your home. They can also be used for countertops, backsplashes, fireplaces, showers, bathtubs and outdoor areas such as patios, pools and gardens. Porcelain tiles can create different styles and moods depending on their colour, size, shape, finish and design. For example, you can use large-format porcelain tiles with a minimalist or contemporary design to create a spacious and sleek look; or you can use small mosaic porcelain tiles with a colourful or geometric design to create a vibrant and playful look.

Porcelain tiles can be installed over various types of substrates such as concrete, plywood, cement board or existing tiles. However, you need to make sure that the substrate is levelled, clean, dry and stable before installing the porcelain tiles. You also need to use the right type of adhesive, grout and tools for installing porcelain tiles. For example, you need to use a special porcelain tile cutter or a wet saw to cut the tiles; you need to use a flexible adhesive that can withstand temperature changes; you need to use a non-sanded grout that can fill the narrow joints between the tiles; and you need to use spacers, trowels, levels and other tools to ensure proper alignment and spacing of the tiles.

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Installing porcelain tiles can be a challenging and time-consuming task that requires skill and experience. Therefore, it is advisable to hire a professional tile installer who can do the job correctly and efficiently. However, if you decide to install porcelain tiles yourself, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and take safety precautions such as wearing gloves, goggles and masks.

Summary

Porcelain tiles are a great option for homeowners who want a flooring or wall covering material that is durable, easy to maintain, water-resistant, fire-resistant and environmentally friendly. Porcelain tiles also offer a wide range of colours, sizes, shapes, finishes and designs that can suit any style and taste. However, porcelain tiles also have some drawbacks such as being expensive, heavy, hard and slippery. Therefore, you should weigh the pros and cons of porcelain tiles before choosing them for your home. You should also consult a professional tile installer who can help you select the best porcelain tiles for your home and install them properly and safely.

How Flooring Discount Can Assist You:

Whether you're renovating or starting a new project from scratch, Flooring Discount is here to guide you in finding the perfect flooring solution. We offer a wide range of options, from budget-friendly choices to high-end products, catering to all budgets. Our extensive collection features various flooring types, including laminate, vinyl, and hardwood, available in contemporary and traditional styles, colours, and patterns.

Thanks to advancements in design and manufacturing techniques, our laminate, vinyl, and hardwood ranges closely replicate the natural beauty of wood, stone, and marble, providing a stunning aesthetic without the additional cost. You can achieve the desired look and feel for your home while staying within your budget.

If you require any assistance or advice regarding bathroom flooring, we are here to help. Reach out to us today to discuss your next project, obtain a quote, or order some samples. Our knowledgeable team is ready to provide guidance and support every step of the way.

To contact us, simply click here to use our convenient contact form on the website or give us a call at 01442 949992. We look forward to assisting you with your flooring needs.