Nature’s Artwork
Porcelain tile can transform the look of any room in the
house. Swirling patterns, striking colours and intense designs offer a striking
look, while providing many benefits for its intended use. Porcelain is made
mostly from clay and a combination of other natural minerals. The "body” of the
porcelain slab gives a unique design and pattern. The final product is produced
by a process known as "firing”. This process subjects the body of porcelain to
very high temperatures in a type of oven called a kiln. Firing gives porcelain
the toughness and durability it’s known for. By choosing porcelain slabs,
Toronto buyers can give any room in the house a unique look.
Porcelain is made of clay. It is
manufactured in a kiln at very
high temperatures. Kilns are thermally insulated chambers that generate intense
heat. A process called "firing” combines the clay with natural minerals that
cause different designs and colours. Glass is added to the mix to give a
translucent appearance. Porcelain can have one of three different finishes;
matte, glazed and unglazed. Glazed porcelain is a popular choice and requires
very little maintenance.
The common use for porcelain in home decorating is with tiles.
While tile offers a cost-effective benefit, the modern approach is to use
porcelain slabs. Toronto homeowners have many new and different design
opportunities right at their feet! The continuity of a kitchen counter and
backsplash made of the same porcelain slab offers a seamless, modern look. Matching
the kitchen counters, back splash and island countertop is a recipe for a
kitchen that makes a statement! In the living room, porcelain slabs have been
used to create
astonishing
fireplaces and mantle pieces. Using porcelain slabs for stair case steps
that compliment a matching tile for main hallways also gives a seamless
appearance. These are all wonderful design ideas to create a fresh and clean
look throughout the house.
Understanding the
Benefits of Porcelain
In addition to its aesthetic properties, porcelain slabs
have many practical benefits that make it the go-to choice.
- Highly
durable – porcelain is fired
with glass and other minerals, giving it additional strength and a more
translucent appearance than ceramics.
- Water
resistant – true porcelain tiles
have a water absorption rating of 0.5% or less, making it a top choice for
showers, bathrooms, floors and backsplashes.
- Resistant
to chemicals – often used in high-traffic areas or in institutions such as
schools, hospitals or other public uses.
- Rust-proof– another characteristic that makes it a top choice for any rooms that can
offer exposure to water.
- Non-porous– Resistant to stains left from food, water, dirt or other environmental
factors. This makes porcelain a great choice for the kitchen.
- Easy
maintenance – Glazing is only used for decorative purposes. Porcelain does
not require sealing to protect it from water damage.
Using porcelain allows you to play around with many
different designs and colours when decorating your home. The current trend is
to use porcelain instead of traditional stone in interior decoration. While
other natural stones like granite and marble are popular, the new mark of
luxury lies in porcelain. For those shoppers considering upgrading with natural
stone, consider the use of porcelain slabs for your next Toronto renovation.