Porcelain
- Porcelain is a ceramic material created by heating clays and minerals. It can be used in a similar range of ways to other stone products, with porcelain tiles being particularly popular thanks to their high resistance to wear, water, and staining. Porcelain is available in different finishes: matte finish, polished finish, satin finish and more. ArchiPro offers only the best porcelain products from tried and tested suppliers in Australia.
You won’t find better porcelain tiles and slabs than that provided by the suppliers on ArchiPro. Available as tiles or larger stone slabs it’s perfect for a wide variety of indoor and outdoor applications. Since porcelain cannot rust and does not absorb water, it’s commonly used in bathrooms, laundries and pool areas. Some porcelains, such as Calacatta porcelain slab, have a similar aesthetic to marble, so can look luxurious in other areas of the home or workspace in Australia too.
Matte finish
Matte finish porcelain is popular in more natural or rustic decors thanks to its slightly rougher appearance. The non-sheened surface of matte porcelain tiles or slabs makes them non-slip, so they’re good for areas that may become wet.
Polished finish
Polished porcelain tiles or slabs go through a brushing process that removes the rough top layer of the stone, leaving it shiny and smooth. Polished porcelain has a luxurious appearance.
Satin finish
The process for giving porcelain a satin finish is similar to how the polished finish is achieved, yet the final stages are skipped, leaving the tiles or slab silky and smooth rather than glossy. This finish is popular in modern homes in Australia.
The advantages of high-quality porcelain tiles and slabs
In terms of strength and durability, truly high-quality porcelain will outperform most natural stones used in design and construction. Unlike some other outdoor flooring options, porcelain can withstand wetness and extremely low temperatures without damage. Due to its non-porous surface, porcelain is stain resistant, will not absorb liquids, and is highly hygienic. Porcelain tiles or slabs are exceptionally low maintenance and easy to clean, requiring a regular sweep or vacuum and the occasional mop.
How to choose porcelain tiles and slabs that are right for you
If you’re purchasing porcelain tiles, keep in mind that the standard grading system is not a ranking of quality, but a ranking of toughness. Higher grades are ideal for high-traffic areas of the home or workplace. While some tiles can be installed via DIY, porcelain tiles require certain kinds of heavy-duty saw to cut, meaning you may not have the equipment for proper self-installation. When choosing a finish for porcelain, consider whether you want the surface to be non-slip.