Here are some key characteristics and features of porcelain tile:

1/ Durability: 

Porcelain tile is known for its exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and fading, making it suitable for high-traffic areas and outdoor applications.

2/ Low Water Absorption: 

Porcelain tile has a very low water absorption rate, typically less than 0.5%. This makes it highly resistant to moisture and suitable for use in areas with high humidity or moisture exposure, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces.

3/ Versatility: 

Porcelain tile comes in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes, allowing for versatile design options. It can mimic the look of natural stone, wood, concrete, and other materials, making it a popular choice for both modern and traditional design schemes.

4/ Ease of Maintenance: 

Porcelain tile is relatively easy to clean and maintain. It does not require sealing and can be cleaned with mild soap and water or standard household cleaning products.

5/ Suitability for Various Applications: 

Porcelain tile is suitable for a wide range of applications, including floors, walls, countertops, backsplashes, and outdoor paving. It is commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings due to its durability and versatility.

6/ Environmental Benefits: 

Porcelain tile is often made from natural materials and can be recycled, making it an environmentally friendly choice for sustainable building practices.

US Certified Porcelain: 

The Porcelain Tile Certification Agency (PTCA) plays a crucial role in the industry by certifying whether tiles meet the water absorption requirements for porcelain (0.5% or less water absorption).

The PTCA was established to address the issue of tiles being mislabeled as porcelain in the U.S. market despite not meeting the technical specifications. The PTCA provides a reliable certification process to ensure that porcelain tiles sold in the market adhere to industry standards and meet expected quality criteria.

When selecting porcelain tile for your project, be sure to check for the PTCA certification mark on the packaging or marketing materials. This ensures that your tile meets the high-quality standards required for genuine porcelain.