Porcelain for outdoor works - the best choice

According to specialists, porcelain stoneware for outdoor works 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 get acquainted with them.

Ceramic granite for outdoor works: composition

It would be more correct to call ceramic granite "synthetic stone". In its production, kaolin white clays, the cleanest quartz sand, natural pigments (usually metal oxides) are used. After a certain preparation, the raw materials are pressed in molds at a pressure of 500 kilograms per centimeter. Further, it is fired in special ovens at a temperature of 1300 degrees. At the same time, all components are restructured within the material, and they are transformed into a vitrified monolith, which for many operational characteristics exceeds the natural counterparts.

Then comes the time of rectification - the calibration of the tile. This is the process of cutting the edge of the product with special diamond circles. When laying porcelain stoneware for outdoor work, it forms a seamless surface. The size of the standard tiles - 15 x 15, 20 x 20, 30 x 30, etc. Thickness up to 30 mm.

Porcelain tiles: properties

The main properties of this material, which make it popular, are frost resistance and resistance to sharp temperature changes. Tests have shown that the tiles for outdoor work (porcelain stoneware) can be scratched only with corundum or diamond. In addition, this amazing material has the highest strength to mechanical damage, which allows it to be used in the most difficult conditions: with wind or impact load. The unique composition and high strength of the tile make it resistant to alkali and acids, even the most concentrated ones. Ceramic granite for outdoor works (as well as for internal works) does not emit harmful substances, it is guaranteed to be devoid of radioactivity.

Porcelain tiles: application

Tiles from porcelain stoneware are successfully used for interior and exterior works. Wear resistance of this material is especially important for flooring. For this purpose, you should choose matt tiles. Porcelain for outdoor work is best selected with a relief surface. With this material, you can not only trim the outer surfaces, but also lay it on the steps or on the floor of an open terrace - it will perfectly withstand all the vagaries of our weather.

Porcelain tiles: disadvantages

Like any finishing material, porcelain stoneware has its own small drawbacks. It does not withstand the influence of hydrofluoric acid (PF), but fortunately, this reagent is not so common. And one more small drawback - fragility during transportation. The material gets special strength when it is laid on the surface, and during transportation it should be taken care of.

Porcelain from European manufacturers

Facing tiles for outdoor work from European manufacturers are marked, indicating the angle of slope of the surface, which prevents slipping.

Porcelain: price

Today a large selection of this material from domestic and foreign manufacturers is presented at the construction market of the country. Ceramic granite for outdoor works, the price for which ranges from 265 rubles per square meter to 400 rubles, is a very reliable and time-tested material.