In architecture and interior design,
porcelain tile stands out as one of the most desired and versatile materials. With a sophisticated aesthetic and
exceptional resistance, it has been consolidating itself as the ideal choice for those seeking to combine beauty and functionality in their projects. The application of porcelain tile transcends the conventional and offers innovative solutions for various styles of projects.
Ceusa: a coleção Noturno traz porcelanatos escuros com nuances esbranquiçadas que dão movimento ao produto. Com peças no formato 120 x 120 cm, tem acabamento natural e antiderrapante. (Divulgação/CASACOR)
What is porcelain tile
Porcelain tile consists of a
ceramic of high resistance and durability, manufactured through advanced technological processes that involve
high-temperature firing. This process results in a piece with very low water absorption and high resistance to scratches and impacts, characteristics that make it ideal for high traffic areas.
What is the origin of this material?
The history of porcelain tile dates back to ancient China, when ceramic techniques were developed and refined over the centuries. However, the modern version of porcelain tile began to take shape in Italy at the end of the 20th century. By utilizing cutting-edge technologies, Italian industries managed to perfect the composition and manufacturing process, resulting in a more homogeneous and versatile material. From then on, porcelain tile began to be adopted worldwide, revolutionizing the coating segment.
CASACOR SÃO PAULO 2016. Praça Eliane - Alex Hanazaki. O desafio de equilibrar um produto industrializado e a natureza foi respondido com o bom uso de geometrismos. As formas de plantas nativas, como o pau-brasil, dialogam com os porcelanatos em diferentes tons que compõem brises nas laterais, com estruturas metálicas. O caminho flutuante no espelho d’água também foi revestido no material em tom mineral, que contrasta com os seixos negros no fundo. (Divulgação/CASACOR)
Types of porcelain tile and their characteristics
Porcelain tile can be classified into different types, each with specific characteristics that influence its application. The choice of type of porcelain tile depends on the project and the intended use, ensuring that the material fulfills its aesthetic and functional purpose in the best way. The best known are: - Technical porcelain: Offers high mechanical resistance and low water absorption, being ideal for high traffic areas.
- Enameled porcelain: Has a layer of glaze on the surface, allowing a wide variety of colors and prints.
- Polished porcelain: Undergoes a polishing process that gives intense shine, but can be slippery when wet.
- Satin porcelain: Has a more matte finish and soft to the touch, being an intermediate option between polished and natural.
- Structured porcelain: Has a non-slip texture, being ideal for external and wet areas.
Ceusa: a coleção Noturno traz porcelanatos escuros com nuances esbranquiçadas que dão movimento ao produto. Com peças no formato 120 x 120 cm, tem acabamento natural e antiderrapante. (Divulgação/CASACOR)
Sizes of porcelain tile
Porcelain tile is available in various sizes, allowing flexibility in the composition of projects. The main formats are: - Small formats (up to 60x60 cm): Ideal for smaller projects, creating a more detailed visual effect.
- Medium formats (between 60x60 cm and 90x90 cm): Versatile, being widely used in residential and commercial areas.
- Large formats (above 90x90 cm): Reduce the amount of joints, providing a continuous and sophisticated effect.
- Porcelain in strips (like 20x120 cm or 30x180 cm): Widely used to imitate wood and create a cozy look.
- Single slab porcelain (super formats above 120x240 cm): Perfect for countertops, panels, and facades, offering sophistication and fewer cuts
Hellen Pacheco Arquitetura e Design - Mediterrâneo em Mim. A procura por um lugar tranquilo, capaz de induzir ao recolhimento, fez a imaginação da designer de interiores Hellen Pacheco voar até as praias do Mar Mediterrâneo, inspiração para seu espaço de 47 m². Porém a referência ganhou uma interpretação cheia de brasilidade graças ao piso de porcelanato criado pela estilista carioca Isabela Capeto, que mistura diversos padrões geométricos. Louças e metais na cor ébano trazem o contraponto moderno. Nomes importantes do design nacional, como Roberta Banqueri e Zanini de Zanine, assinam o mobiliário. É a primeira participação da profissional na CASACOR. (André Mortatti/CASACOR)
Advantages and disadvantages of porcelain tile
Advantages
- High resistance to impacts and abrasion;
- Low porosity, reducing water absorption and facilitating cleaning;
- Variety of finishes, colors, and textures;
- Versatility of application in different projects;
- Extended durability, ensuring great cost-effectiveness over the long term.
Disadvantages
- Higher initial cost compared to other coatings;
- Need for specialized labor for installation;
- Some options, like polished porcelain, can be slippery when wet;
- Difficult to cut and adjust in renovations.
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[/caption> Different applications in decoration
In decoration, porcelain tile stands out for its ability to reproduce noble materials, such as wood, marble, polished concrete, and natural stones, with high fidelity. This allows creating sophisticated and cozy projects without the high maintenance costs and limitations of the original materials. Living room
Diogo Viana Arquitetos - Galeria dos Artesãos. Projeto da CASACOR Pernambuco 2022. (MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)
Porcelain tile can be used to cover floors and walls, creating a sophisticated project. Porcelain that imitates wood brings coziness, while marbled models add elegance.
Kitchen
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Countertops made of porcelain are a modern and resistant alternative to heat and moisture. In addition, coatings for walls and floors facilitate cleaning and ensure durability.
Bathroom
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[/caption> Porcelain tile is an ideal choice for wall and floor coverings, especially non-slip versions, which ensure greater safety.
Outdoor area
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Structured porcelain is recommended for wet areas, such as pools and balconies, as it offers grip and resistance to the elements.
Bedrooms
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Porcelain headboards can be an innovative alternative for a modern and sophisticated look, in addition to facilitating cleaning and maintenance. Sustainability
With the growing environmental concern, porcelain tile stands out for its sustainable aspect. This is due to its manufacturing process being increasingly efficient in the
use of natural resources, in addition to being a highly durable material, reducing the need for constant replacements. Another benefit is that porcelain tile contributes to
more energy-efficient buildings due to its ability to act as a thermal regulator. The reuse of scraps and waste in its manufacturing process also reinforces its sustainable appeal. [caption id="attachment_145338" align="alignnone" width="1613"]
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New technologies related to porcelain tile
Technological innovations have transformed the world of porcelain tile in various fronts. Recently, advances such as HD digital printing have allowed the reproduction of textures and colors with very high detailing, further expanding aesthetic possibilities. In addition, technological solutions have improved stain resistance and enhanced thermal and acoustic insulation capabilities. These innovations place porcelain tile at the forefront of coating materials, offering more and more options for architects and interior designers.
CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creation agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.
