Porcelain Tiles: Why Designers Are Obsessed With Them

Let's face it, porcelain tiles are having a moment. From swanky London flats to cosy country cottages, these versatile beauties are popping up everywhere. But why are designers so smitten with porcelain tiles? It's not just about looks, these tiles are tough, versatile, and can mimic everything from rustic wood to luxury marble. No wonder the design world's gone crazy for them.

Key Takeaways:

• Porcelain tiles durability and versatility

• Styles variety and styles, from marble effect to patterned designs

• Indoor and outdoor usability

• All weather and water-resistant

Imagine this: you're padding across your kitchen floor, cuppa in hand, feeling something smooth and cool underfoot. That's the magic of porcelain floor tiles. They're more than just practical; they're a homeowher’s and designer's dream come true. Why? Because they can transform any space from drab to fab faster than you can say "home makeover".

Porcelain floor tiles are like the chameleons of the design world. They can imitate natural stone, and wood, and they are low maintenance. Spilt your tea? No worries. Red wine mishap? No worries, these tiles are very easy to clean and maintain.

But it's not all about practicality. Porcelain floor tiles come in an array of colours, patterns, and textures. Want a sleek, minimalist look? There's a tile for that. Fancy something bold and funky? Yep, porcelain got you covered there too. 

Now, let's step outside for a moment. Long are the days when garden design was all about paving slabs and decking. Porcelain tiles are an amazing alternative, not just to add colour, style, but also offers a budget friendly alternative. Porcelain garden tiles are turning outdoor spaces into extensions of our homes, blurring the lines between inside and out.

These outdoor porcelain tiles are tough and durable. They endure the British weather, resisting frost, fading, and those pesky moss and algae that love to make decking look grotty. And maintenance? Just a quick jet wash now and then, and they're good as new. No wonder landscape designers prefer porcelain outdoor tiles.

By now you can see that porcelain garden tiles go beyond versatility, it can create stunning focus point. Imagine a patio that looks like it's made of rare Italian marble or decking that has the warmth of wood but none of the upkeep. 

Now, you might be thinking, "Hang on a minute, aren't ceramic tiles just as good?" Well, that's where things get interesting. While ceramic and porcelain tiles might look similar, they're actually quite different. 

Porcelain tiles are denser and less porous than their ceramic counterparts. This means they're more water-resistant and harder-wearing. This durability is why homeowners and designers love using porcelain tiles in high-traffic areas or wet rooms.

But it's not just about toughness. Porcelain tiles also have the edge when it comes to styles and design. Thanks to advanced printing techniques, porcelain tiles can mimic natural materials with uncanny accuracy. 

Now, let's talk style. Due to the range of styles, they can pull off any look, from classic to cutting-edge. Here are just a few of the most popular styles.

Marble Effect Tiles

Want the luxe look of marble without the eye-watering price tag and high maintenance? Marble effect porcelain tiles are your new best friend. They capture all the elegance and veining of real marble, but with added durability and a much friendlier price point. 

Luxury & Designer Tiles

For those who want their floors to stand out, luxury and designer porcelain tiles are a great option. From bold patterns, unique textures, to beautiful colours. These tiles are for the brave, the bold, and those who want their homes to reflect their personality. 

Patterned Tiles 

If you thought patterned tiles were just for Victorian hallways, think again. Modern patterned porcelain tiles are having a major moment. From geometric designs that could make your head spin to Moroccan-inspired patterns that transport you to exotic lands, these tiles are injecting personality into homes across the UK. 

Designers are increasingly drawn to porcelain tiles for their exceptional adaptability. No longer confined to bathrooms and kitchens, these versatile materials are making significant inroads into various living spaces. Their application now extends throughout the home and even into outdoor areas, showcasing their remarkable range and utility in contemporary design.

In living rooms, large-format porcelain tiles can create a seamless, contemporary look that's easy to clean (goodbye, red wine stains on the carpet). In bedrooms, wood-effect porcelain tiles offer the warmth of hardwood without the maintenance headaches. And in home offices? Well, let's just say your chair will glide a lot more smoothly on porcelain than on carpet.

But it doesn't stop there. Designers are using porcelain tiles on walls to create stunning feature walls or to mimic the look of wallpaper (without the peeling edges). They're using them on kitchen worktops as a heat-resistant, easy-clean alternative to traditional materials. Some are even using large-format porcelain tiles as table tops or cabinet fronts. The only limit is imagination.

So, what's next for porcelain tiles? Well, if designers have their way, the sky's the limit. We're already seeing some exciting trends emerging. There's a move towards even larger format tiles, with some reaching sizes of 1.5m x 3m. These create an almost seamless look, perfect for modern, minimalist designs.

Technology is also playing a big role. Some manufacturers are experimenting with porcelain tiles that can change colour or pattern at the touch of a button. Imagine being able to switch up your floor design as easily as changing your wallpaper on your phone!

Sustainability is another big focus. Many manufacturers are now producing porcelain tiles using recycled materials and eco-friendly processes. This means you can have a stylish home and a clear conscience.

Here's a less fluffy, more direct version:

Click here to learn more about porcelain tiles in our guide. Explore finishes, sizes, and durability properties.

Common FAQs

How can you tell if porcelain tile is good quality?

Check that your tiles are CE approved. Good quality tiles should be dense, with a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less. 

What is the best grade of porcelain tile?

 You need to look out for their PEI rating  as tiles are rated 1 to 5. 1 being the lowest and only suitable for light residential wall tiles, through to 5 which can be used in heavy commercial applications.

What is the best thickness for porcelain tile?

It depends on the application. As porcelain tiles are very strong, manufacturers are making them thinner and thinner to save costs and reduce waste. Porcelain tiles range from 8mm to 20mm. Outdoor tiles should be thicker, typically 15-20mm, to withstand any application of weight.

Which is better: glazed or polished porcelain tiles?

Both have their advantages. Glazed are available in both matt and shiny finishes and are typically more stain-resistant. Polished tiles tend to have a mirror like shine as they are mechanically polished, rather than the shine just coming from the glaze, so some can require sealing when they are fitted to ensure they will not stain. In the end, it comes down to personal preference.

Why shop at Stone Tile Company?

Our Coalville, Leicestershire warehouse is equipped to handle orders of any size, from small residential projects to large commercial installations. By maintaining our own stock and operating efficiently, offering high-quality products at competitive prices, that's why we say our tiles are..Stylish Tiles For Less!

Discover the limitless possibilities of porcelain tiles, where artistry meets innovation. Our beautiful product range brings together the finest designs, colours and styles offering you the perfect blend of timeless elegance and modern durability for any space in your home. Should you require any assistance with your porcelain tile selection, we're here to help. 

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