CONCRETE & STONEWORK
Porcelain can withstand extreme
weather conditions, and most tiles
offer an excellent slip rating of R11
for added safety outdoors whereas
natural stone and timber are prone
to algae and moss which can cause
discolouring and a slippery surface.
Stone also features naturally
occurring chemicals within the
material, which creates the paving
colour and natural shading, making
it very difficult to get an exact match
each time. Porcelain is printed using
the latest HD technology, which
eliminates extreme shading issues.
The material can deliver a range of
finishes from classic travertine to
contemporary concrete and wood.
Detailed veining and stunning
tonal variation create a look that’s
difficult to distinguish from real
stone and timber, making it a stylish
alternative that’s easy to clean and
maintain. Concrete stone effects in
steely grey shades are proving to be
popular with consumers, alongside
the weathered, distressed looks of
heavy wood grain designs.
Many people believe porcelain
is difficult to install, but actually
the opposite is true. Porcelain can
be installed in the same way as a
traditional patio, the only difference
is that a priming slurry must be
applied to the back of the tile.
Fewer grout lines are needed when
using large format tiles which creates
an illusion of space in small areas. As
porcelain tiles are extremely robust
and durable, they must be cut with a
water-fed diamond blade, creating a
precise and premium look every time.
Pattern has always been a massive
trend within interior design, and
this can be applied to porcelain tiles.
Loose lay tiles in a variety of patterns
and formats to make a space stand
out from the crowd with minimal
effort or create an interesting twist
to a fixed patio with eye-catching
diagonal layouts, herringbone and
modular patterns, all of which deliver
a more modern aesthetic.
You can also create paths and zoned
areas with individual tiles that lead
further into an outside space for an
attractive, stable floor covering that
connects the exterior of the house
with the lower part of the garden or
covered gazebo area. A stone effect
porcelain tile in light beige on the
patio, next to a much darker stone
walkway clearly defines the space
but connects the two together at
the same time. For more eclectic
projects, experiment with different
sizes and textures by laying wood
and stone effects side by side for a
visually stunning combination.
For more information, please visit
www.alfrescotiles.co.uk
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www.landud.co.uk
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