According to experts, porcelain stoneware for outdoor work is the most wear-resistant and durable material, harder than many types of natural granites. He appeared in the eighties of the last century in Italy. Probably, many have heard about porcelain stoneware, but not everyone knows what its features are. Today we will meet them.
Porcelain tile for outdoor work: composition
It would be more correct to call porcelain stoneware “synthetic stone”. Its production uses kaolin white clays, the purest
quartz sand, natural pigments (usually metal oxides). After some preparation, the raw materials are pressed in molds at a pressure of 500 kilograms per centimeter. Then they burn it in special furnaces at a temperature of 1300 degrees. At the same time, all components are undergoing restructuring within the material, and they are turning into a vitrified monolith, which surpasses its natural analogues in many operational characteristics.
Then comes the time for rectification - tile calibration. This is the process of trimming the edge of the product using special diamond wheels. When laying, porcelain stoneware for outdoor use forms a seamless surface. Standard tile size - 15 x 15, 20 x 20, 30 x 30, etc. Thickness up to 30 mm.
Porcelain tile: properties
The main properties of this material, which make it popular, are frost resistance and resistance to sudden changes in temperature. Tests have shown that outdoor tiles (porcelain stoneware) can only be scratched with corundum or diamond. In addition, this amazing material is highly resistant to mechanical damage, which allows it to be used in the most difficult conditions: under wind or shock load. The unique composition and high strength of the tile makes it resistant to alkalis and acids, even the most concentrated. Porcelain stoneware for outdoor works (as well as for internal ones) does not emit harmful substances, it is guaranteed to be free of radioactivity.
Porcelain tile: application
Porcelain tiles are successfully used for indoor and outdoor use. The wear resistance of this material is especially important for flooring. For this purpose, matt tiles should be chosen . Porcelain stoneware for outdoor use is best chosen with a raised surface. Such material can not only trim the outer surfaces, but also lay it on the steps or on the floor of the open terrace - it will perfectly withstand all the vagaries of our weather.
Porcelain tile: disadvantages
Like any finishing material, porcelain stoneware has its small disadvantages. It does not withstand exposure to
hydrofluoric acid (PF), but, fortunately, this reagent is not so common. And another small drawback is fragility during transportation. The material acquires special strength when it is laid on the surface, and should be preserved during transportation.
Porcelain tile from the European producers
Facing tiles for outdoor work from European manufacturers have a marking indicating the angle of inclination of the surface, which prevents slipping.
Porcelain tile: price
Today, a large selection of this material from domestic and foreign manufacturers is presented on the country's construction market. Porcelain tile for outdoor work, the price of which ranges from 265 rubles per square meter to 400 rubles, is a very reliable and time-tested material.