Sintered Stone vs Porcelain Tile Material Composition
Most are familiar with porcelain tiles, which traditionally are fired from a blend of kaolin clay, feldspar, and silica. Sintered stone is also made from similar natural minerals, along with pigments for colour. Unlike quartz countertops, it skips the resins or binders, as its surface does not require sealing from external elements.
Sintered Stone vs Porcelain Tile Manufacturing Process
Both sintered stones and porcelain tiles go through a high temperature firing process in excess of 1,200°C in order to induce full vitrification which produces an exceptional dense and high strength compact product. They are pressed and compacted under high pressing pressure and subsequently fired and for sintered stone, sintered at a temperature of up to 1300°C.
They are produced using innovative technology that is capable of producing stones in limitless sizes and thicknesses which also integrates the powder forming phase and subsequent digital decoration to produce high quality texturing and unrivalled surface shine.
Sintered Stone vs Porcelain Tile Strength, Thickness, and Colour
Both sintered stones and porcelain tiles are known for their incredible strength, both boasting superior resistance to scratches, chips, and heat compared to other surfaces available on the market. This translates to a greater resistance to damage from wear and tear.
When it comes to thickness, colour, and pattern, sintered stone, particularly those created for countertops, is generally manufactured thicker than porcelain tiles, which contributes to a more luxurious and substantial feel. The thicker body also allows for more design flourishes, such as the full-body veining on Zirconio Stone, which has the vein design running seamlessly throughout. However, there is no limit to producing sintered stones with a slimmer variance of 6.5mm.
In contrast, some porcelain tile designs are glazed and printed only on the surface, which reveals a different colour at the sides and underneath.
The Final Verdict: Sintered Stone vs Porcelain Tile
If unwavering durability, consistent aesthetics, and a high-end feel are your priorities, Zirconio Stone is the perfect fit for your countertops. However, for your floor and wall coverings, porcelain tiles may be a more reliable option that also provides good performance. Consider your project’s requirements and desired look to make the best decision that suits your needs.
