Porcelain Tile a New Trend
Porcelain tile has always been an option for homeowners for over 30 years, but it is becoming even more of a trend nowadays. Professionals in the industry say that is due to the fact that they are regenerative.
“Regenerative design in its simplest form is design that goes beyond sustainability with its mantra of do no harm. It is based on holistic thinking and draws inspiration from systems and images found in nature. It aims to reconnect and realign humans and their activities with the natural environment, thereby reducing the negative environmental impacts of today’s society while addressing urgent issues such as the lingering COVID-19 pandemic, and whatever may come next,” says gb&dPRO.
An important part of regenerative design is biophilic design, which incorporates the natural aspects of products like porcelain tile. Porcelain tile is made and has a variety of biophilic graphics and finishes. Some tiles can even resemble stone or wood. Porcelain tile is also hygienic, nonporous and will not allow microbial growth. Since it is nonporous, it is easy to clean so it cleans easily with safe and simple cleaners.
According to gb&dPRO, “the significant mass of porcelain tile installation consisting of backer board, mortar, and tile results in a heat sink in the built space. This becomes a temperature moderator for the space, resulting in reduced heating and cooling energy demands. Porcelain tile’s efficient manufacturing processes and long installed life give it the lowest embodied carbon of any competing floor type.”
Cassandra Kilgore of Acme Brick agrees, “some porcelain tile can be purchased with antimicrobial technology which leads to a cleaner environment. These tiles are allergen-free; they are durable, easy to clean, won’t stain and they are pet friendly. They keep their like-new appearance longer than any other floor and can be a permanent floor. Our tile also has different finishes within the series, like adding rougher textures and pavers which allow for outdoor installations as well.”
These tiles with antimicrobial properties have been used in hospitals, medical offices, daycares and other places that need to stay clean for years. The technology though has improved over time and can be productive even when not in the sun. This type of tile had to be sunlight-activated years ago.
Tile is versatile, clean, environmentally friendly and is now in demand. Porcelain tile offers thermal benefits to reduce energy consumption, extremely low porosity resulting in hygienic and easy-to-clean surfaces and significant wear-resistance for long life. Regenerative design may be a new term, but the benefits of porcelain tile are timeless.
