Porcelain - Stone Care Guide
Porcelain Stone Care Guide
Properties, maintenance, and expert advice for porcelain surfaces
About Porcelain
Porcelain stoneware (gres porcellanato) is a ceramic tile fired at extremely high temperatures (1200-1400 degrees C), creating an exceptionally dense, hard, and almost non-porous material. Modern porcelain tiles can convincingly replicate the appearance of natural stone, wood, or concrete while offering superior durability and easier maintenance.
Glazed porcelain tiles have a protective surface layer that makes them virtually stain-proof and extremely easy to clean. Unglazed (full-body) porcelain, while still very dense, has microscopic surface pores that can trap dirt and stains over time - making protective impregnation highly recommended for unglazed varieties.
Porcelain is acid-resistant, frost-proof, and available in an enormous range of sizes, colours, and finishes. Its hardness (Mohs 6-7) rivals natural granite. The main care challenge with porcelain is grout joints - these require separate cleaning and protection. Large-format porcelain tiles (60x60cm and above) are increasingly popular for their seamless, modern look.
Characteristics
- Fired at 1200-1400 degrees C
- Almost non-porous (glazed)
- Acid and chemical resistant
- Extremely hard and scratch-resistant
- Frost-proof for outdoor use
Common Uses
- Interior flooring
- Bathroom walls and floors
- Kitchen backsplash
- Outdoor terraces
- Commercial spaces
- Pool surrounds
Popular Varieties
- Glazed porcelain (shiny, easy-clean surface)
- Unglazed/full-body porcelain (same colour throughout)
- Polished porcelain (mirror finish, more porous)
- Structured/textured porcelain (anti-slip)
- Rectified porcelain (precisely cut edges)
Care Essentials
- Glazed: minimal maintenance, easy to clean
- Unglazed: apply protective impregnator after installation
- Clean grout joints separately with grout cleaner
- Remove cement residue thoroughly after installation
- Use conditioning cleaner for streak-free daily maintenance
Common Problems
- Cement residue after grouting (most common)
- Limescale in bathroom environments
- Stubborn dirt in micro-texture of unglazed tiles
- Mold in grout joints
- Slip risk when wet (some finishes)
Recommended Products for Porcelain
Protection
Daily Maintenance
Enhancement
Need personalised advice?
Use our Lithofinder to find the right product for your specific porcelain problem, or chat with our stone care expert.