Porcelain Stoneware

Porcelain Stoneware

Interno moderno con pavimentazione in gres porcellanato effetto cemento, tavolo da trucco blu e sedia tonda rosa.
district greige
District Greige
Bagno elegante con rivestimento e pavimento in gres porcellanato effetto pietra della collezione Heritage, dettagli in legno e pianta verde.
heritage pearl
Heritage Pearl
Bagno spazioso con pavimento effetto metallo colore titanium e pareti colore Plate Tin dalla collezione Plate, vasca indipendente e vanità moderna.
Plate Titanium
Plate Titanium
Elegante dettaglio di bagno con lavabo quadrato su pavimento in gres porcellanato effetto marmo decorato e rubinetteria in rame.
9cento Alba Oro
9cento Alba Oro
Pavimento esterno in gres porcellanato effetto pietra della collezione Midlake, accostato a mobili da giardino.
Midlake Quartzbeige
midlake quartzbeige
Keope Journey Almond Pav1
journey almond
Journey Almond

What is porcelain stoneware?

Porcelain stoneware is a high-quality ceramic tile and the result of a sophisticated production process that begins with the selection of excellent raw materials such as clays, feldspars, quartz and other elements. These components are then finely ground, mixed and fired at temperatures of up to 1235 °C, transforming them into an extremely compact and resistant material.

The origin of the term reflects quality and production process, with 'stoneware' indicating the stone-like density resulting from the greification of the sands during firing, and 'porcelain' referring to the pure, white clays used. 

This composition gives porcelain stoneware unique properties of durability and strength, making it ideal for a wide range of applications.

Technical characteristics of porcelain stoneware

LOW POROSITY

LOW POROSITY

Porcelain stoneware has an extremely low porosity, due to its low water absorption coefficient of less than 0.5%.

CHROMATICALLY STABLE

CHROMATICALLY STABLE

Colours are absolutely stable and are not altered by exposure to sunlight, atmospheric agents or smog.

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NON-REACTIVE TO FIRE

NON-REACTIVE TO FIRE

This material does not burn or produce toxic-harmful gases or fumes in the event of fire or exposure to flame.

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ABRASION RESISTANT

ABRASION RESISTANT

Its resistance to abrasion and wear is superior to any that of any natural material. Given its surface resistance due to baking and pressing, this material resists impact and is not affected by the movement of objects, even heavy ones, over its surface.

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RESISTANT TO STRESS

RESISTANT TO STRESS

The high tensile strength of the material enables it to withstand the bending generated by even particularly heavy loads. If the specific laying instructions are adhered to, it can be used to paved driveways, which can withstand even the weight of cars.

ACID-PROOF

ACID-PROOF

Porcelain stoneware has the ability to withstand contact with household chemicals (stains, acids, bases) at room temperature without altering its appearance.

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RESISTANT TO FROST AND THERMAL SHOCK

RESISTANT TO FROST AND THERMAL SHOCK

Porcelain stoneware is resistant to frost and, when exposed to water at temperatures below 0 °C, is not damaged by the stresses associated with the increase in volume of water due to freezing.

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HYGIENIC

HYGIENIC

Its non-porous vitrified surface hinders the proliferation of fungi and bacteria.

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ATOXIC

ATOXIC

At a normal atmospheric temperature and pressure, porcelain stoneware is chemically inert and does not release any organic substances (VOC).

Production Cycle

Production Cycle
Certification and Testing

Certification and Testing
Technical Information

Technical Information
Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Where is porcelain stoneware used?

As porcelain stoneware is an extremely versatile material with superior technical properties compared to other materials, it is suitable for a wide variety of applications.

Porcelain stoneware is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, in:

  • Private homes: floors and wall coverings in bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, patios and gardens. 
  • Commercial spaces: shops, offices, restaurants, bars, hotels, spas, shopping centres.
  • Public spaces: squares, stations, airports, hospitals, schools, museums.

Its strength and durability make it ideal for floors and wall coverings, but also for furnishing elements such as kitchen worktops, splashbacks, bathtubs, washbasins and more.

Discover the effects of porcelain stoneware

Ceramiche Keope creates porcelain stoneware collections by skilfully interpreting natural and artificial materials, creating the same visual appearance and touch of the original material and offering a wide range of effects for every surface. From the timeless elegance of marble to the refined beauty of stone, from the warmth of wood to the industrial charm of concrete, and the modern allure of metal and resin. These effects combine the look of the original materials with the practical features and durability of porcelain stoneware, allowing spaces to be creatively planned and designed to suit all tastes in interior design, from classic to luxurious or to a more contemporary and industrial feel.

Marble-Effect Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Marble
Wood-Effect Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Wood
Concrete-Effect Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Concrete
Resin Effect Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Resin
Stone Effect Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Stone
Metal Effect Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Metal

Browse the colour palette of Keope porcelain stoneware

The range of coloured porcelain stoneware offers a broad palette for expressing creativity in any design project. These colours make it possible to create spaces with different atmospheres: from the neutral, calm tones of beige and porcelain stoneware, which are perfect for relaxing, luminous spaces, to grey and black porcelain stoneware, for a more modern, sophisticated look. With such a wide range of colours, any furnishing style can be accommodated, satisfying both current trends and personal tastes.

Light Grey Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Light Grey
Dark Grey Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Dark Grey
Beige Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Beige
White Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

White
Black Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Black
Brown Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

Brown
Other Colours of Porcelain Stoneware

Other

Browse the thicknesses available for Keope porcelain stoneware

The choice of thickness in porcelain stoneware is crucial and must be suited to the space where it will be used. Porcelain stoneware in thinner thicknesses, such as 6 mm and 9 mm, is perfect for renovations as it can be laid on top of existing floors, making installation easier and without the need to remove the existing floor tiles. Porcelain stoneware in a thickness of 9 mm is the most widely used for indoor flooring as it combines technical performance with ease of installation. For wall coverings, porcelain stoneware with a thickness of 6 mm, in large slabs, is particularly suitable, while 9 mm is perfect for all other formats. For outdoor use, we recommend porcelain stoneware in greater thicknesses such as 2 cm or 3 cm, to ensure greater resistance to stress and weathering. As these thicknesses are robust and durable, they are suitable for outdoor public spaces, gardens or floors subject to high loads.

6 mm Thick Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

6 mm
9 mm Thick Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

9 mm
20 mm Thick Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

20 mm
30 mm Thick Porcelain Stoneware Tiles

30 mm

All available sizes

Choosing the right size in porcelain stoneware is essential when designing indoor and outdoor spaces to create the right visual impact. Large slabs, such as porcelain stoneware in the imposing size of 120x278 cm, expand the visual perspectives of spaces, while small and medium porcelain stoneware tiles add a sophisticated touch to details.  These dimensions can be used to create stunning designs such as trendy kitchen worktops, elegant backsplashes or wall coverings that are a decoration in their own right and underline the uniqueness of each design. Together with the intrinsic qualities of porcelain stoneware, large slabs offer a wealth of innovative combinations to create exclusive spaces with a more sophisticated feel. 

3x120 - 1 1/5''X48'' RT 3x120 - 1 1/5''X48'' RT
3,1x60 - 1 1/4''X24'' RT 3,1x60 - 1 1/4''X24'' RT
5x120 - 2''X48'' RT 5x120 - 2''X48'' RT
6x120 - 2 1/3''X48'' RT 6x120 - 2 1/3''X48'' RT
6,4x60 - 2 1/2''-24'' RT 6,4x60 - 2 1/2''-24'' RT
7,5x30 - 3”X12" 7,5x30 - 3”X12"
7,5x45 Chevron 7,5x45 Chevron
9,7x60 - 3 7/8''X24'' RT 9,7x60 - 3 7/8''X24'' RT
10x120 - 4''X48'' RT 10x120 - 4''X48'' RT
14,7x60 - 5 3/4''X24 RT 14,7x60 - 5 3/4''X24 RT
15x30 - 6''X12'' 15x30 - 6''X12''
15x120 - 6''X48'' RT 15x120 - 6''X48'' RT
20x120 - 8''X48'' RT 20x120 - 8''X48'' RT
22,5x22,5 - 9''X9'' 22,5x22,5 - 9''X9''
22,5x45,3 - 9''X18'' 22,5x45,3 - 9''X18''
30x30 - 12''X12'' 30x30 - 12''X12''
30x30 - 12''X12'' RT 30x30 - 12''X12'' RT
30x60 - 12''X24'' 30x60 - 12''X24''
30x60 - 12''X24'' RT 30x60 - 12''X24'' RT
30x60 - 12''X24'' RT Crossing 3D 30x60 - 12''X24'' RT Crossing 3D
30x60 - 12''X24'' RT 20mm 30x60 - 12''X24'' RT 20mm
30x120 - 12'X48'' RT 30x120 - 12'X48'' RT
30x120 - 12''X48'' RT 20mm 30x120 - 12''X48'' RT 20mm
30x240 - 12''X96'' RT 20mm 30x240 - 12''X96'' RT 20mm
40x80 RT - 16''X32'' RT 40x80 RT - 16''X32'' RT
45x45 - 18''X18'' 45x45 - 18''X18''
45x90 - 18''X36'' RT 45x90 - 18''X36'' RT
45x90 - 18''X36'' RT 20mm 45x90 - 18''X36'' RT 20mm
60x60 - 24''X24'' RT 60x60 - 24''X24'' RT
60x60 - 24''X24'' RT 20mm 60x60 - 24''X24'' RT 20mm
60x60 - 24''X24'' RT 30mm 60x60 - 24''X24'' RT 30mm
60x90 - 24''X36'' RT 20mm 60x90 - 24''X36'' RT 20mm
60x120 - 24''X48'' RT 60x120 - 24''X48'' RT
60x120 - 24''X48'' RT 20mm 60x120 - 24''X48'' RT 20mm
60x120 - 24''X48'' Decor RT 60x120 - 24''X48'' Decor RT
60x120 - 24''X48'' RT Crossing 3D 60x120 - 24''X48'' RT Crossing 3D
60x120 - 24''X48'' Flute 3D 60x120 - 24''X48'' Flute 3D
60x120 - 24''X48'' Line 3D 60x120 - 24''X48'' Line 3D
75x75 - 30''X30'' RT 75x75 - 30''X30'' RT
80x80 - 32''X32'' RT 80x80 - 32''X32'' RT
80x80 - 32''X32'' RT 20mm 80x80 - 32''X32'' RT 20mm
90x90 RT - 36''X36'' 20mm 90x90 RT - 36''X36'' 20mm
120x120 - 48''X48'' RT 120x120 - 48''X48'' RT
120x120 - 48''X48'' RT 20mm 120x120 - 48''X48'' RT 20mm
120x240 - 48''X96'' RT 120x240 - 48''X96'' RT
120x240 - 48''X96'' RT 20mm 120x240 - 48''X96'' RT 20mm
120x278 - 48''X110'' RT 120x278 - 48''X110'' RT

Guide to the finishes of Keope porcelain stoneware

Knowing how to choose a porcelain stoneware surface finish is just as important as finding the right size and thickness. In addition to giving a tactile sensation to the material, the surface finish also determines important technical and functional aspects related to the use of surfaces.

In its collections, Ceramiche Keope offers a wide range of surfaces. The Lappato and Silky finishes are the most elegant, smooth and pleasant to the touch. R9 is a soft and at the same time matt finish that perfectly complements stone, wood and cement effects in interior design. The Spazzolato R10 finish is a perfect balance of technique and visual appeal: soft to the touch and therefore suitable for indoors, but with superior non-slip properties, it guarantees safety in any space, even when the floor is wet. For outdoor use, the ultimate choice is a textured R11 finish, which enhances the anti-slip properties of the surface, making it ideal for gardens, patios, outdoor walkways and pool edges.

Finally, decorative 3D finishes, such as Crossing 3D and Line 3D, are designed to give the coverings a dynamic look with greater depth through captivating patterns of light and shadow.

Natural Natural
Natural R9 Natural R9
Natural R10 Natural R10
Lappato Lappato
Spazzolato R10 Spazzolato R10
Structured R10 Structured R10
Structured R11 Structured R11
Grip R10 Grip R10
Grip R11 Grip R11
Glossy Glossy
Silky Silky
3D 3D
Keope Limes Spa Quartz White 60X90 Element Design Grey
Limes quartz white
Limes Quartz White

Non-slip

The safety of the surfaces we walk on is fundamental in any setting, be it residential, commercial or public. Porcelain stoneware offers excellent anti-slip performance, thanks to specific tests that guarantee maximum safety.

Ceramiche Keope carries out periodic checks on the anti-slip performance of its products using the ramp method (standard EN 16165) and through the evaluation of the dynamic friction coefficient (ANSI A326.6 - DCOF).

Slip Resistance EN 16165, Annex A ( DIN 51097) and Annex B (DIN 51130)

These tests, which respectively involve walking barefoot on wet surfaces and walking with shoes on oil-wet surfaces, classify surfaces into different categories based on the maximum angle of slope reached before slipping:

Results for anti-slip properties of wet areas when walking barefoot

  • A 12° ≥ (medium grip)

  • B 18° ≥ (high grip)

  • C 24° ≥ (maximum grip)

Ramp results wearing shoes

  • R9 = 6°-10° (normal grip)

  • R10 = 10°-19° (medium grip)

  • R11 = 19°-27° (high grip)

  • R12 = 27°-35° (maximum grip)

These classification systems make it possible to choose the most suitable porcelain stoneware, ensuring not only the desired appearance and durability but also safety.

Determination of the Dynamic Friction Coefficient (ANSI A326.3 - DCOF)

This test, which is compliant with the ANSI standards, the skid resistance of the surface, providing a quantitative value of the dynamic friction coefficient. The tiles are then classified into 2 categories based on the results obtained:

  • ID (≤ 0.42): suitable only for dry environments, where the risk of slipping is reduced.

  • IW (> 0.42): recommended for wet surfaces, indicating good skid resistance.

The standard now defines five classes (ID - Interior Dry, IW - Interior Wet, IW+ - Interior Wet Plus, EW - Exterior Wet and OG - Oil and Grease). The first two classes are defined unambiguously by the test (greater than or less than 0.42), the other three classes are defined following the manufacturer's self-declaration of performance.  

Pendulum Friction Test

In accordance with BS 7976-2:2002 (EN 16165, Annex C), this test uses a pendulum to measure skid resistance on dry or wet surfaces. The values obtained indicate the degree of safety of the surface:

  • > 36: low skid potential, ideal for almost all environments.

  • 25-35: moderate skid potential, requires caution.

  • < 24: high skid potential, not recommended for high-traffic areas or areas with special safety requirements.

Hand in protective yellow glove scrubbing gres porcellanato floor with foamy detergent and brush, concept of tiled floor maintenance.

Ease of cleaning

A further significant advantage of porcelain stoneware is the fact that it is exceptionally easy to clean, making it a preferred choice for many environments, ensuring hygiene and low maintenance. This characteristic is particularly useful in spaces where cleanliness is a priority, such as hospitals, kitchens, bathrooms and public areas. Determining stain resistance is a fundamental aspect that proves how easy it is to keep porcelain stoneware surfaces clean and hygienic over time.

How to clean Porcelain Stoneware

Determination of Stain Resistance (UNI EN ISO 10545-14)

The stain resistance test evaluates the ability of ceramic tiles to resist and allow the removal of stains of various origins. During the test, common staining agents such as iodine dye, olive oil, and chrome green are applied to tile samples over a 24-hour period. Following this test, the materials are then put into classes 1 to 5, based on the ease of stain removal, as follows:

  • Class 5: The stain can be removed simply with warm water, indicating maximum stain resistance and a minimal need for specific cleaning measures.

  • Class 4: The stain comes out with a sponge and a mild, pH-neutral detergent, still demonstrating excellent stain resistance.

  • Class 3: Mechanical cleaning combined with the use of a strong detergent with basic pH value is needed to remove the stain, indicating good stain resistance that may require more vigorous cleaning.

  • Class 2: Stain removal requires the use of a specific solvent, suggesting moderate stain resistance.

  • Class 1: The stain cannot be removed, indicating low stain resistance and potentially more difficult maintenance.

Classification according to UNI EN ISO 10545-14 provides a reliable parameter for choosing porcelain stoneware depending on the specific cleaning and maintenance  requirements in each space.

Spacious minimalist interior with beige gres porcellanato flooring, modern metal bookshelf, sleek bedroom view, and designer furniture.
heritage beige
Heritage Beige

Compatibility and efficiency with underfloor/radiant heating

Porcelain stoneware is proving to be an ideal solution for underfloor heating systems due to its excellent thermal conductivity and low thickness, both qualities that favour efficient and rapid heat transfer from the system to the room. This material is notable for its high impact resistance and remarkable stability to temperature variations, preventing damage due to fluctuations in temperature. With radiant floor systems, the principle of thermal conduction plays a key role: heat is transmitted, through the different layers of the floor, from the warmest to the coldest body, whereby the speed of transmission is influenced by the type of substrate and the thermal resistance of the material.

Materials with lower thickness and high thermal conductivity, such as porcelain stoneware, ensure a better heat transfer than thicker or less conductive materials, such as marble, granite or wood. This means that porcelain stoneware, due to its low thickness and good λ, is more efficient in heat transfer than more solid or insulating materials.

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