GLAZED PORCELAIN STONEWARE TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS

UNI EN 14411(ISO 13006) -BIa (Appendix G) GL

Glazed porcelain stoneware tiles are manufactured using extremely pure, selected raw materials submitted to the most advanced extraction and sorting techniques. The result is top-quality porcelain stoneware, obtained through the wet grinding of the raw materials, followed by partial spray-drying, silo storage to allow homogenisation of the properties, and pressing with highly efficient hydraulic presses, with specific pressures exceeding 500 kg/cm2. Following suitable firing at temperatures of over 1200°C, these high pressure values will bring about a highly compact and resistant ceramic body. The water absorption levels are extremely low, lower than 0.1 % (UNI EN ISO 10545-3) and the mechanical resistance levels are extremely high, with the average value exceeding 50 N/mm2 (UNI EN ISO 10545-4)compared to the required 35N/mm2.

Thanks to their low porosity, these tiles are frost-proof and rated in the Bia GL class according to the UNI EN 14411 European Standard which requires water absorption ≤ 0.5%.

The wear resistance however, depends on the type of glaze and may change from product to product. The glazed porcelain stoneware is available in a wide range od sizes and finishes.

ADVICE ON LAYING

Glazed porcelain stoneweare can be laid using traditional cement mortars, which have been suitably packed and conforming to the EN 12004 and EN 13888 standars.

However, we advise using special adhesives for large size floor products and in any case for outdoor use. As for wall tiles, the two-layer spreading system is recommended to perfectly wet the back of the tile. Quickly dipping each tile in water before laying will avoid the risk of dust on the rear surface of the tile preventing perfect adhesion. Never wet the tiles when using vinyl, acrylic resin adhesives or two-component organic-solvent based adhesive. It is advisable to incorporate suitable shrinkage - flexion joints when laying large floors: the joints should never be spaced more than 4 - 5 linear metres apart indoors and 3 linear metres apart outdoors. Finally, it is always advisable to check that strongly coloured grouting products do not cause any problems by leaving stains on the surface of the tiles that may prove difficult to remove afterwards. Carry out a test before starting on the grouting and contact our technical department for specific helpful advice, including when tiles need to be laid in unusual situations or special ambient conditions.