Porcelain stoneware is a relatively recent invention. After its inception, it became so popular that many manufacturers began their own developments in this area. Thanks to this, there is now a huge range of porcelain stoneware finishing materials on the market, and it is in great demand among designers. Having become familiar with some of the nuances in handling it, the material can be easily used in interior solutions.
Porcelain stoneware is an excellent finishing material
To use porcelain stoneware in the best way, you need to know at least a little about its properties and applications. This will allow you to avoid big mistakes and problems both during installation and in subsequent operation. First of all, it should be understood that it has nothing to do with natural stone. Porcelain stoneware tiles are made by analogy with ordinary ceramic tiles, only for this, several specific types of clay with modifying additives are used. It also differs in the nature of the surface, for example, polished porcelain stoneware has a perfectly smooth mirror surface and is most often used for decorative wall cladding, since ugly scratches will quickly appear on the floor on it. In contrast, structured porcelain stoneware has a textured surface and creates the effect of rough, untreated masonry.
Initially, porcelain stoneware was developed for industrial enterprises, therefore it has several extremely valuable qualities in everyday life. It is inert to water and aggressive detergents, fungus does not form on it, and it is extremely easy to care for. In addition, thanks to the efforts of numerous designers, porcelain stoneware tiles are extremely diverse. If you wish, you can easily choose a design that is stylized even for a certain type of tree. There are, of course, some peculiarities. The main one is high fragility, like ceramic tiles. This requires strict adherence to the laying technology.
Bathroom and toilet
This is the best place to apply porcelain stoneware tiles. Correctly laid, it can easily support a lot of weight, so even a huge antique bathtub can be placed on it. If you provide for the presence of good waterproofing in the bathroom, it will be possible not to think about its subsequent repair for a long time. No plaque builds up on porcelain stoneware, and you can wash it even with the most caustic detergent.
In the wide range offered, it is easy to find rough floor tiles, this is what makes it a durable anti-slip coating. The walls are tiled with smooth tiles, for this you can use marble effect porcelain stoneware. All technological holes in the tile are easily cut with a special tool.
Kitchen
Here, porcelain stoneware will also be simply irreplaceable, especially on the floor. Everything that can only fall on the floor during the cooking process is then easily washed off. The tile is strong enough to withstand kitchen furniture and appliances that won't dent or crack. Walls are usually not fully clad, but limited to areas that are adjacent to worktops and a stovetop. This will allow you to wash off any dirt, besides, porcelain stoneware is not afraid of sudden temperature changes.
Living room
In the living room, porcelain stoneware is mainly used only for the floor. The exception is structured tiles, which partially or completely decorate the walls, if this is combined with the style being created. In any other case, there is a great risk of turning the living space into an uncomfortable museum. It should also be borne in mind that porcelain stoneware is a cold material, so it will not be possible to walk on it barefoot. It must either be covered with carpets, or the "warm floor" system must be pre-installed.
Bedroom
This is the most non-trivial use of porcelain stoneware, many still believe that the bedroom will turn out to be cold and uncomfortable. For a bedroom, you can choose a tile imitating a tree, and one of the best options is an imitation of artistic parquet. Combined with underfloor heating and proper installation, the result is a hygienic floor covering that is very easy to maintain. Of course, according to tactile sensations it will be a stone, but visually there will be nothing to complain about.