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Choosing porcelain tiles - 17 important questions

The most common questions that arise in the process of choosing a ceramic granite tile. Today we will try to give comprehensive answers to them.

The question of choosing a tile arises for almost everyone who plans to repair or furnish a new home. Therefore, it is important to know the answers to the main questions regarding the purchase of this material. Many believe that experience with ceramic tiles allows you to deal with ceramic granite without difficulty. However, there are some nuances that can still cause difficulties. Here are the most common questions:


1. What are the advantages of ceramic granite over ceramic tiles?

Ceramic granite has a wider range of applications due to its strength and durability. It withstands strong impacts, has less water absorption and higher frost resistance, which allows it to be used outdoors. Ceramic granite is also more resistant to abrasion, chemicals and UV rays.

2. What are the advantages of ceramic granite over natural stone?

Ceramic granite has a natural texture similar to granite or marble, but has better performance characteristics. It absorbs less water and has higher frost resistance, which makes it suitable for outdoor use. In addition, porcelain stoneware does not carry the risk of radioactivity like some natural stones, and it is easier to install and maintain.

3. What should be the reverse side of the tile?  

The reverse side of porcelain stoneware should have a non-uniform structure for better adhesion to the glue. Modern collections have embossed strips or notches that help to ensure reliable fixing of tiles.

Also, a special engobe solution is applied to the reverse side of TM Allore tile, which ensures maximum adhesion between the tile and the surface on which it is laid. 


4. How to correctly calculate the number of tiles?

When calculating the number of tiles, take into account the repair stock and material for accidental damage and undercutting. For standard horizontal laying, add up to 10% of the stock, and for diagonal - 15-20%. Round up fractional quantities.

5. What should be the weight of 1 m² of ceramic granite?

Ceramic granite has a greater density and weight compared to ceramic tiles. A square meter of ceramic granite with a thickness of 8-8.5 mm should weigh at least 18-19 kg.

6. What is rectified ceramic granite?

Rectified porcelain stoneware has precise dimensions due to perimeter trimming with high-precision equipment. This allows you to lay tiles without seams or with very thin seams.

7. Does seamless laying really mean the absence of seams?

Seamless laying involves minimum seams of 1.5-2 mm thickness to compensate for thermal expansion and shifts of the base. For large areas, it is necessary to arrange expansion joints.

8. What is the caliber of the tile?

The caliber of the tile determines the deviation of the actual size from the nominal one. The calibration of the tile is carried out to ensure uniformity of dimensions, as minor deviations may occur during the production process.


9. What is tile design variability?

Variability of the design means the presence of different patterns and effects on the tile, which allows you to imitate natural materials such as stone or wood.

10. What is tile tone?

Tile tone is the color shade of a batch of tile, which may vary slightly between batches. To achieve uniformity of color, tiles from one batch and from several packages should be used.



11. Is porcelain stoneware suitable for facing fireplaces?

Although porcelain stoneware can withstand high temperatures, it is not recommended for use inside fireplaces due to the limitations of heat-resistant adhesives. Ceramogranite is better suited for external facing of fireplaces.

12. Is it possible to lay ceramic granite on the ceiling?

Although some professionals install tiles on the ceiling, this is not recommended due to the risk of tiles falling off due to installation errors or external factors.

13. Is porcelain stoneware suitable for facades and roofs?

Ceramic granite is suitable for cladding facades due to its strength and frost resistance. However, it is not used for pitched roofs, but it can be used on flat roofs provided proper drainage is provided.

14. Can porcelain stoneware be used in humid environments?

Due to its low water absorption, ceramic granite can be used in bathrooms, swimming pools and other wet rooms. It is important to choose suitable adhesives and grouts for seams.

15. Is it possible to use porcelain stoneware for the garage floor?

For the floor in the garage, you can use technical ceramic granite with a thickness of 10 mm or more. It is important to follow the technology of laying on a flat and dry base.

16. What is the service life of ceramic granite?

Ceramic granite can serve for more than 50 years, even when used outdoors. Its durability is limited by the correct installation and the quality of glues and grouts.

17. The specifics of the cost of work and the choice of a master

With a limited budget, it is important to consider not only the cost of materials, but also the cost of the tiler's work, which can vary depending on the type and format of the tile.

In particular, if you have chosen a tile of non-standard shape, embossed or large size, the choice of the master becomes especially important. Not all specialists have experience working with such materials, and their work may be more expensive due to the complexity of laying.

The price also depends on the complexity of the arrangement

The caliber of the tile determines the deviation of the actual size from the nominal one. The calibration of the tile is carried out to ensure uniformity of dimensions, since minor deviations may occur during the production process.