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.

 

 

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.