Category: Finishes
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
Porcelain tiles are dense ceramic tiles with very low water absorption, fired at high temperature and used on floors and walls inside and out.
Why it matters on a project
They resist wear and moisture better than ordinary ceramic, but large formats need a very flat floor, proper adhesive and the right laying method.
Measurement and pricing
Measured in square metres plus a cutting waste allowance; skirting in linear metres.
Worked example
A 4 × 5 m room = 20 m², with 10% waste = 22 m²; at 1.44 m² per box that is 22 ÷ 1.44 = 15.3, so 16 boxes.
Common mistake
Laying with spot-fixed traditional mortar instead of full-bed adhesive, so tiles sound hollow and crack.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic?
Porcelain is denser, absorbs less water and is stronger; ceramic is lighter, cheaper and suits interior walls.
How wide should tile joints be?
The manufacturer and size decide; often 2 to 3 mm for rectified porcelain.
Related terms
- MarbleA natural stone used for floors, walls and stairs, requiring periodic surface protection.
- Waste allowanceA percentage added to material quantities to cover cutting, damage and site loss.
- WaterproofingLayers preventing water ingress into structural elements or spaces, such as bituminous membranes and cementitious coatings.
- LevelThe vertical height of a point relative to a datum (zero level).
Read next
- Work out quantities with our free calculators: concrete, tiles, paint and plaster. Open the calculators
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