Porcelain tile is a relatively new building material that began to be produced around the 70s of the last century. Its good performance, durability and strength have led to the fact that this material began to be widely used.
Matte porcelain tile is widely used for exterior and interior decoration of the house and allows you to create an original design of the room.
What is porcelain tile?
Matte porcelain stoneware is one of the most durable facing materials. It is manufactured using special technology, which guarantees a high level of strength and reliability of the product. Its dimensions can be very different, in the form of tiles square or rectangular.
The increased strength of porcelain stoneware makes it a versatile material for walls and floors. Such tiles are used in the house, especially in rooms with:
- high humidity;
- temperature differences;
- strong pollution.
This material has proven itself in places with high attendance and the simultaneous presence of a large number of people. Porcelain tile has three main types of surface, differing in their basic characteristics.
How is porcelain tile made?
Porcelain tile for the floor gets its characteristics in the manufacturing process. The manufacturing process of this product consists of several stages. The initially prepared mixture, consisting of natural components, is pressed under high pressure.
The resulting product is fired at high temperatures. In the process of firing, the bonds in the structure of the material are broken, which helps to increase its strength and reliability.
Main advantages and disadvantages
Before choosing a product, you need to study the main types of granite, advantages and disadvantages, as this will make the right choice. The main advantages of porcelain tile include:
- environmental friendliness;
- abrasion resistance;
- strength;
- low water absorption;
- frost resistance;
- resistance to chemicals;
- fire resistance;
- durability.
It is worth noting that this material has practically no drawbacks. If it is laid in compliance with all the rules and technological requirements, then such a coating will last for a long time, without requiring special care and repairs. However, if the flooring is not properly laid, voids may occur between the floor and the tile itself. In this case, its deformation is possible.
What are the types of porcelain stoneware
You can apply a variety of types of porcelain tiles in the interior, but it is often difficult to make the right choice, as more and more new and modern varieties of this product appear. Among the main types of porcelain tiles it is necessary to distinguish:
- building;
- glazed;
- matte;
- semi-polished;
- polished;
- satin;
- structured.
The most affordable and resistant to abrasion is considered building porcelain. Glazed is obtained by applying special glaze to the surface of the tile and subsequent baking. Matte products do not undergo additional processing, but they are characterized by a high level of strength.
To obtain
polished tiles, its surface is treated with special abrasives, which helps to give it a beautiful appearance. Semi-polished porcelain stoneware is obtained by cutting off the matte part of the surface, followed by polishing. As a result of this, you can get quite beautiful and unusual tiles.
In the manufacture of satin products, mineral salt is applied to the surface of porcelain stoneware before firing, which helps to give the product a unique soft shine. Structured porcelain stoneware is a product with a relief surface that can simulate almost any material.
Features matte texture
Opaque porcelain stoneware is one of the most durable tile materials, as it is almost 2 times superior to other types of tiles in basic strength indicators . The matte coating is gaining popularity and demand every year, since its high-quality and decorative characteristics are somewhat similar to natural stone.
This product is quite easy to maintain, since to maintain an attractive appearance, it is enough to periodically wipe it with a damp cloth. This material is resistant to negative climatic conditions and temperature fluctuations, which is why it is suitable even for outdoor installation.
Opaque porcelain stoneware for the floor is safer than other types of coating, since when the water gets in, the surface of the tile does not become slippery. Therefore, it is ideal for rooms with high humidity. Matte products are considered pure porcelain stoneware, but despite this, its cost is much lower than that of other types of tiles, and the quality characteristics are higher.
Properties and characteristics of matte tiles
Opaque porcelain stoneware does not have a luster, since its surface is not additionally ground and treated after firing. This manufacturing method gives the tile not only a natural look, but also has such qualities as:
- environmental friendliness and hygiene;
- resistance to abrasion and deformation;
- preservation of aesthetic characteristics regardless of the level of load;
- ability to withstand various temperatures;
- minimum porosity and moisture absorption.
This product is characterized by an anti-slip effect, which is why you can be completely sure of safety when mounting it on the street.
Fields of application of matte products
When choosing tiles for home decoration, matt porcelain stoneware can be an ideal option. This is one of the most durable facing materials, which has found wide application in the decoration of exteriors and interiors. An unpolished product is excellent for laying in rooms with high humidity, and is also ideal for use in the most aggressive conditions.
The surface of such a product can be absolutely any color, as with the help of innovative technologies it is possible to add texture:
- concrete;
- marble;
- tissue;
- a tree;
- skin.
In addition, the product can be decorated with various patterns. Ceramics with a wood texture very accurately imitate parquet or laminate. It is able to last for a long time and does not require special care. The tile imitating granite or marble is just perfect for the kitchen, sauna, bathroom, pool.
Gray matte porcelain tile is the best option for decorating a unique interior at an affordable cost. It goes well with interior items made in the style of a loft or minimalism. In addition, it will be a great addition to the Scandinavian style.
This type of tile is ideal for cladding floors, walls, terraces, building facades, stairs.
Matte Porcelain Care Rules
Matte tiles are resistant to aggressive chemicals, which is why a variety of chemical solutions can be used to eliminate contamination. Acidic agents help eliminate residues of lime, cement, glue. In addition, they cope well with stains of nicotine, rust and ink.
Alkaline solutions help remove greasy stains of plant and animal origin, as well as stains of coffee, blood and juices. Solvents such as acetone, turpentine, and gasoline can help remove wax stains, chewing gum, varnish, and tar. Stain removers can remove greasy and various colored spots.
If the tile is not very dirty, there are no greasy stains and stains on it, just wipe the surface with a soft sponge dipped in absolutely any detergent. It is advisable to remove all existing contaminants immediately after their formation, as this will simplify the maintenance of porcelain stoneware. You should not wash it too often with agents that contain acids, as over time they can destroy tile joints.
How to choose porcelain tiles?
Before choosing a tile for home decoration, you need to study its technical characteristics. For the kitchen, white matte porcelain stoneware is ideal, which will help to slightly visually raise the low ceiling, increase the room.
A dark product and rich color combinations can be used for decoration only if the room is spacious enough. An important role is also played by the color of the furniture. If it is light or white, it is best to choose a dark color flooring, because otherwise the room will not be very comfortable.