It doesn’t. That’s a bit of an overstatement, but porcelain tile truly is remarkably durable. There is a reason it is used in swimming pools. Any material used in a pool must be trusted to last a very long time without breaking down. After all, swimming pools are constantly exposed to water, plus, the makeup of a pool is always being tested by extreme weather throughout the year. What is it precisely that helps keep this relentless tile from wearing?
How porcelain tile is made
Porcelain is created from a mix of clays and minerals. It is fired at extremely high temperatures to make it insurmountably hard and dense. Its creation results in a hardness and denseness that is even greater than ceramic tile.
Obviously, the harder a material is, the tougher it will be to damage by impact. Hence, you see porcelain tile installed in many kitchens and outdoor patios. This type of tile provides comfort to a homeowner, as the homeowner will know any mishap, such as knocking down a table or spilling a drink, will be overcome.
Qualities of porcelain tile
- Stain-resistant
- Water-resistant
- Bacteria-resistant
- Odor-resistant
Bottom-line…porcelain tile provides a lot of resistance. Swimming pools, specifically, benefit greatly from porcelain tile. All of the above qualities adhere to requirements for pool tile. You want to install a swimming pool material that will not wear due to water exposure. You also do not want your tiles to stain. Lastly, water mixed with certain chemicals can result in bacteria build up. Porcelain reacts friendly with water; therefore, it will resist bacteria. This tile will serve its purpose without having to be constantly monitored. It will act as a nice compliment to your home or backyard, and it will act as such for a long time.
Maintaining Porcelain Tile
The tile itself is very easy to clean, especially if it is glazed. Any kitchen spills can be cleaned with a wet cloth. In general, the entire tile area can be cleaned with a mop or any type of detergent. The tougher maintenance applies to the grout, rather than the tile. Dirty grout is a lot more visible than a homeowner would like it to be. In fact, dirty grout can ruin the look of a room, no matter how pristine the tile is. As long as you have the grout sealed, you should be in good shape.
Maintained porcelain tile should last up to 50 years. The tile’s lifetime may be slashed ever so slightly if used in pools, but you will still be very satisfied with the service time provided by your porcelain tile.
Contact Fujiwa Tiles
Fujiwa Tiles is your top tile source. We offer over 80 different tiles to choose from, each uniquely designed and up-to-date with the most innovative qualities. We have various porcelain tiles within our selection, as well as many other durable material options. Please take a look at our vast selection via our website or catalog. We look forward to finding you the perfect tile match for your desires. Contact us today! Also, please visit our blog page for more tile information.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. How long does porcelain tile typically last?
When this tile properly maintained, can last up to 50 years or more, making it a long-term investment in the aesthetics and functionality of your space.
2. Is porcelain tile suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, it is highly suitable for outdoor applications, thanks to its resistance to moisture, stains, and temperature fluctuations.
3. Can porcelain tile be used in swimming pools?
Absolutely, porcelain is an excellent choice for swimming pools due to its exceptional durability and resistance to water and chemicals.
4. Does porcelain tile require special cleaning products?
No, it can be cleaned using mild detergents and water, making it a low-maintenance flooring option.
5. How does porcelain tile compare to ceramic tile in terms of durability?
Porcelain tile surpasses ceramic tile in durability, owing to its denser composition and higher firing temperatures during the manufacturing process.