What is porcelain stoneware?

The name “porcelain stoneware” indicates a dry-pressed, highly compact, ceramic product with high quality, technical specifications (these tiles are highly flex, graze, scratch, weather and chemical agent resistant) and have a very low porosity.

This specification indicates that in the firing phase (conducted at high temperatures of 1250-1350° C) all porosity in the tiles is closed, which allows them to be declared as completely vitrified.

What is the difference between glazed and full-bodied porcelain stoneware?

Glazed porcelain stoneware is a product with a front surface that has been further enhanced by glazing. It is a material that is particularly suited for use in residential spheres. Full-bodied porcelain stoneware, on the other hand, is a product whose surface colour is the same all the way through the tile.

This specification means that in the rare event of the tile being chipped, the damage can hardly be seen at all.

The high aesthetic value and the special features of this product means it is particularly suited for use in domestic and light commercial traffic contexts.

What is the difference between rectified and non-rectified tiles?

During firing ceramic undergoes a dimensional transformation and it reduces by about 10% from the pressing dimension. This can result in small differences of the order of tenths of a millimetre between pieces of the same nominal format and different calibres between productions. Rectification is a process that is carried out on the edge of the tile. The edges are squared with a mechanical process, that renders the tiles all of the same calibre and of the same exact dimension, so that they can be laid with a minimal joint (recommended 2 mm). The non-rectified tiles maintain the natural edges from the press and require larger joints.

How should you clean porcelain stoneware?

To clean porcelain stoneware correctly use a microfibre cloth with a diluted solution of neutral detergent for tiles, such as Faber’s Floor Cleaner, Fila’s Cleaner or similar products, following the use and dilution instructions indicated on the manufacturer’s packaging. Avoid using waxing and/or impregnating products; for large surfaces we recommend using washer-dryers.

Every day: – Remove dust with brushes or vacuum cleaners. – Wash with the aforementioned detergents (or low residue neutral detergents) in a 1:200 dilution (one small cup in 5 litres) with a damp cloth, which must be rinsed often in the solution.

WARNING: If the flooring, after any type of cleaning, shows the signs of the cloth passage, wash well with clean water, rinsing often and squeezing the cloth well. Never exceed the quantity of detergent to dilute in water, unless the flooring is particularly dirty and it will be rinsed at the end.

We recommend performing a degreasing wash with Faber’s Tile Cleaner, FILA’s PS/87 or similar products in a 1:20 dilution in water (possibly warm, to render it more effective), followed by a thorough rinse; or descaling washing if there is scale residue, use Faber’s Cement Remover, FILA’s DETERDEK or similar products in a 1:20 dilution in water (possibly warm, to render it more effective), followed by a thorough rinse.

WARNING: If there are still areas that are not perfectly clean, repeat the degreasing and/or descaling wash at higher concentrations. The operator assigned to this intervention must always proceed with a preliminary check on a small section of material.

How should tiles with special applications (e.g. gold or silver), like decorations or inserts be cleaned for the first time?

The materials used for these kinds of decorations have features that are typical of precious metals. So take particular care when laying these tiles and even more when cleaning them. Do NOT use abrasive products that may scratch or damage the surfaces of the tile.

To clean these kinds of tiles CCI recommends using only soft cloths with warm water and alcohol. For these reasons, no claim or complaint will be accepted if tiles have already been laid.

When cleaning these kinds of materials, use cotton cloths and alcohol or specific gold, copper or polish cleansers and NO abrasive products.If silver decorations become oxidised, rub them gently with a cloth to restore their original shine.

How do I place an order?

We currently take orders over the phone or in person at our showroom and shopfront in St Agnes. Give us a call or visit us today - we'd love to help you find what you need.