When it comes to interior design, porcelain tiles stand out as a true star. In 2024, porcelain tile trends are more innovative and stylish than ever, reflecting not only aesthetics but also functionality and sustainability. Let’s dive into the top 10 trends that are transforming homes and gardens.
What is porcelain?
Porcelain is a type of ceramic coating produced with high-purity raw materials and subjected to a compaction and sintering process, which makes it extremely resistant and durable.
Due to this sophisticated manufacturing, it has low porosity and is practically waterproof, making it stain resistant and very easy to clean.
Porcelain vs. Ceramic: A Comparison
Ceramic is a traditional and more economical covering material, but porcelain, composed of high-quality clays and minerals, offers greater resistance and durability, especially for floors.
Furthermore, porcelain requires less maintenance and has a greater variety of finishes and textures, allowing for a wide range of design options. Therefore, if you are looking for a covering that combines resistance, durability and aesthetic versatility, porcelain may be the ideal choice for your project.
Different Types of Porcelain
The universe of porcelain tiles is extensive and varied, with different options that adapt to different needs and preferences.
- Discover the main variations of this material: Polished porcelain: With a glossy surface, this type of porcelain adds a touch of sophistication to any space, making it ideal for living rooms and bedrooms. However, due to its shine, it is more prone to stains and can be slippery, making it not the best option for wet areas.
- Satin porcelain: This is a type of porcelain tile that combines charm and durability. With a matte surface, it is resistant to stains and scratches and can be used in humid indoor areas, such as bathrooms.
- Natural porcelain: With a more rustic appearance, this type of porcelain is perfect for outdoor areas, such as balconies and gourmet spaces. However, it is worth remembering that it can be slippery, so it is important to consider this characteristic when choosing.
- Glazed porcelain: This type of porcelain tile receives an enamel coating that gives a slight shine to the surface, making it versatile for use in both indoor and outdoor areas.
- EXT Porcelain: It is the most resistant and durable porcelain option, being perfect for outdoor areas and around swimming pools. It is non-slippery and easy to clean, making it a practical option.
- Rectified porcelain: This porcelain tile undergoes an additional grinding process that leaves its edges perfectly aligned. This provides an elegant finish and allows for the use of less grout, which makes cleaning easier and provides a more uniform look to the room.
It is essential to personally see the different porcelain tile options, so you can feel the texture and visualize how they fit into your project. Consider your practical and aesthetic needs when choosing.
Tips for choosing the perfect porcelain tile
If you are planning a renovation or construction project and don’t know where to start when choosing porcelain tiles, don’t worry! Here are some suggestions that can simplify the process:
- For outdoor areas: Models with a rougher texture, such as EXT or natural porcelain, are ideal for spaces such as patios and leisure areas with swimming pools. Prefer colors neutral or wood-effect for an incredible result!
- For indoor areas: Polished porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for living rooms and bedrooms, as they add a sophisticated touch to the space. For bathrooms and lavatories, satin or glazed options are highly recommended.
- Cost: The price of porcelain tiles can vary depending on the size of the piece and the exclusivity of the design. However, smaller sizes, such as 60x60, tend to offer better value for money.
- Textures and colors: Porcelain tiles come in a wide range of textures and colors, from models that imitate wood and concrete to marble-like porcelain tiles. The choice you make will depend on the style you want for your space. For example, for a modern and cool look, porcelain tiles that imitate concrete may be the perfect option.
- Sizes: Typically, 90×90 and 120×120 porcelain tiles are chosen because they offer a good balance between cost and aesthetics, in addition to providing fewer joints, resulting in a more harmonious and easy-to-clean environment.
Remember: Installing porcelain tiles requires care and skill. Hire a qualified professional to ensure that the coating is applied correctly, avoiding problems such as displacement of tiles and the formation of cracks.
How to install porcelain tiles?
Installing porcelain tiles requires some specific skills and is usually carried out by professionals. The process involves preparing the surface, applying mortar, laying the tiles and applying grout.
- Surface preparation: The surface must be clean, level and dry. Any irregularities may result in improper installation.
- Mortar application: The mortar must be applied to both the surface and the back of the porcelain tile. This ensures perfect adhesion.
- Laying the pieces: Porcelain tiles must be laid carefully, always checking the alignment and spacing between them. To do this, crosspieces are used to help maintain the same distance between the tiles.
- Applying the grout: Grout is applied to fill the spaces between porcelain tiles. It helps protect against water infiltration and maintain the clean, finished appearance of the porcelain tile.
How to clean and maintain porcelain tiles?
Porcelain tile maintenance is quite simple. For daily cleaning, simply use a damp cloth with a little neutral detergent. Avoid using acidic or abrasive products, which can damage the surface of the porcelain tile.
For more stubborn stains, you can use specific products for cleaning porcelain tiles, which are available on the market. Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the product. Although porcelain tiles are extremely resistant, it is always recommended to avoid dragging furniture or heavy objects over the surface, to avoid scratches or damage.
Remember: The choice of material must be aligned not only with the style you want, but also with your needs and available budget.
10 Ideas for using Porcelain in your Decor
Porcelain is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of environments, such as living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
1-Use the texture of the porcelain to reinforce the environment’s proposal.
2-If you are looking for a more welcoming atmosphere, opt for porcelain tiles that imitate wood.
3-For a more modern look, gray porcelain is an excellent choice.
4-Take advantage of the variety of porcelain finishes to create unique decorations.
5-Marbled porcelain, for example, can add a touch of sophistication to your home. kitchen.
6-Porcelain tiles are known for their high durability and resistance, making them an excellent option for indoor and outdoor areas.
7-In outdoor areas, porcelain tiles are resistant to weather and adverse climatic conditions.
8-Therefore, it is perfect for sidewalks, balconies, terraces, swimming pools, among others.
9-Opt for porcelain tiles with a more rustic texture, which can prevent slipping when wet and also provides a more natural feel to the space.
10-To make it easier to understand, let's take a step back and clarify some concepts for our readers who are being introduced to this subject now.
Conclusion
Porcelain tile trends for 2024 demonstrate how versatile and innovative this material can be. From large formats to three-dimensional effects, porcelain tile continues to be a popular choice for those looking to combine style, practicality and sustainability in their spaces.
Curiosity: Did you know that porcelain can even be used in furniture? Thanks to its resistance and versatility, designers are creating tables, countertops and even decorative items with this incredible material!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is large format porcelain more difficult to install?
Although it requires more care during installation due to its size, installing large format porcelain tiles is not necessarily more difficult. Qualified professionals can handle them efficiently.
Do porcelain tiles that imitate wood really look natural?
Yes, advanced digital printing technology allows porcelain tiles to imitate wood with great fidelity, both in texture and color.
Are antimicrobial porcelain tiles safe for health?
Yes, they are designed to be safe and effective, reducing the presence of harmful microorganisms without harming human health.
Are ecological porcelain tiles more expensive?
Although they may have a slightly higher initial cost, ecological porcelain tiles are an investment in sustainability and can bring savings in the long term.
Is liquid porcelain scratch resistant?
Liquid porcelain is quite resistant, but like any glossy surface, it can be susceptible to scratches if not cared for properly.
Is it possible to use porcelain tiles in outdoor areas with swimming pools?
Yes, there are specific types of non-slip and wear-resistant porcelain tiles that are ideal for outdoor areas, including around swimming pools.
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