Porcelain stoneware tiles - extraordinary durability and timeless beauty
Among the materials for paving, special attention should be paid to stoneware. This relatively young product is characterized by properties that allow versatile use - both in private and public spaces, as well as in industrial facilities.
The composition of raw materials and the method of production make Stargres stoneware slabs with a thickness of 2 and 3 cm have exceptional technical parameters. At the same time, they are characterized by timeless aesthetics and design, so they perfectly complement the modern architecture of buildings and their minimalist design, and create unlimited possibilities for use in areas that require paved surfaces with special properties, for example, in public spaces.
Pietra Serena Cream 60x120x2 cm
© STARGRES
Durability
Hardened pavements must be able to withstand the pressure acting on them. They must not bend or crack under the weight of various types of vehicles and when they move over the pavement.
For Stargres 2 and 3 cm thick slabs, the bending strength is [N/mm2] ≥ 35, and the breaking force [N] respectively: ≥ 7000 and ≥ 30000. These parameters are significantly higher than those recommended by the guidelines Mechanisch hoch belastbare keramische Bodenbeläge. In addition, surface hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale and abrasion class 4 of PEI (according to 10545-7) protect the surfaces of the panels from scratches by sand and gravel applied by people, on the wheels of cars or blown by the wind.
Halifax 45x90x3 cm
© STARGRES
Non-absorbent and frost resistant
Absorbency (E) is a parameter that determines the degree of absorption of the panels. Those with a compact structure, with fewer micropores, will absorb less water. The degree of absorbency also determines other performance qualities, primarily frost resistance.
From the point of view of the possible destruction of materials due to changing weather conditions, Poland lies in one of the most difficult climatic zones - the number of passes through the temperature of 0ºC between autumn and spring can reach up to several hundred cycles, depending on the weather and the region. Regardless, in summer, pavement slabs can heat up to 70º, only to be cooled by several tens of degrees in a short time by rain. Such rapid temperature changes in a short period of time cause strong thermal stresses to which paving materials must be resistant.
Pizarra 60x120x2 cm
© STARGRES
The water absorption rate of Stargres porcelain stoneware slabs does not exceed 0.5% and is six times lower than the permissible limit set by the guidelines Ausenbelage Belagkonstruktionen mit Fliesen und Platten auserhalb von Gebauden, ZDB VII.2005. This applies to slabs of BIa class with frost resistance tested on 100 cycles of passes through 0ºC.
These values show that Stargres porcelain stoneware slabs are practically non-absorbent (a 60x60x3 cm slab weighing about 25 kg can absorb only up to 0.125 ml of water), frost resistant and resistant to temperature shocks. These parameters allow the use of stoneware slabs without concern even in the most difficult climatic conditions, for example, in northeastern Poland, mountainous areas and wherever contact with water is unavoidable, such as in ports, river and reservoir embankments and areas with high groundwater levels.
Select Decor 60x60x3 cm
© STARGRES
Stain resistance and anti-slip properties
The first property mainly refers to aesthetic qualities, the second to safety of use. Stargres stoneware tiles are distinguished by the 5th highest class of stain resistance, and dirt is removed from them, for example, only with warm water (class 5), using detergent (class 4), strong detergent and additional mechanical cleaning (class 3). These properties, clearly defined, make it easier to choose the right type of stoneware tiles for the place of application.
Slip resistance, in turn, determines the safety of use of the tiles. This parameter is marked from R9 to R13. The higher the number, the less slippery the tiles. Stargres porcelain stoneware tiles with high anti-slip parameters are used in entrance areas (exterior and interior) to buildings, steep garage entrances, driveways for wheelchairs, forklifts and others, any surface that requires a durable, aesthetic surface that is resistant to climatic and usage conditions.
Stark Grey 45x90x3 cm
© STARGRES
Laying
Stargres porcelain stoneware tiles can be laid on balconies, terraces, driveways and any surface that requires a durable, stable, resistant to weather conditions, utility damage and pollution, as well as an aesthetic surface that will not require troublesome cleaning.
It is also important that the substrate for Stargres porcelain stoneware tiles can be concrete, grass, gravel, water permeable or poorly permeable. A suitable installation method is developed for each of them - without the use of glue and specialized tools, making it easy, convenient and fast. It also gives the possibility to change the layout of the tiles and, if necessary, to remove them quickly, which is great when using stoneware tiles as mobile paving.
Stargres ' Star 2.0 and Star 3.0 porcelain stoneware tiles are available in formats: 120x60x2, 60x60x2, 90x90x3, 45x90x3, 60x60x3.
For more information, visit the company's STARGRES Sp. z o.o. page on the PdA portal.
