Porcelain stoneware steps for stairs. Finishing concrete stairs in the house and on the street with porcelain tiles DIY porcelain tile stairs

Staircase projects always include a specification that specifies what material to use for finishing. Steps for stairs made of porcelain stoneware are the most durable and durable option. Exist various options this material, which can be used in finishing. Porcelain tiles have high technical indicators and ideally meets the requirements for abrasion and strength. Mandatory requirement for the internal stairs of the house is an aesthetically attractive appearance, in other words, designers need to make beautiful interior using porcelain stoneware steps.

To make the perfect concise solution, without seams and additional expenses For installation, porcelain stoneware manufacturers came up with steps made of 1000x300 porcelain stoneware. This trend has been going on for over ten years.

The market name is monolithic steps, porcelain stoneware is the basis of this type of product. All the main features of porcelain stoneware are inherent: low water absorption, frost resistance, resistance to chemical influences, wear resistance.

The production of degrees from porcelain stoneware is a rather expensive process. But the characteristics of this type of product are interesting in that flights of stairs can be faced both inside and outside the house, due to the fact that the material has low porosity and water absorption. Individual characteristic monolithic steps and their strength. The standard version of the manufactured steps is 22 mm thick. This allows it to be used even without the use of a stair base, for so-called open flights of stairs. Monolithic steps can withstand fractures of at least 450 kg. This characteristic, in turn, allows the steps to be laid on the base without prior leveling. This simplifies the installation process, because for other types of steps, preparing a level base is one of the rules for reliable installation.

The high hardness of the steps allows you to avoid scratches that will spoil the appearance of the stairs. Also, the abrasion process is quite long for this type of steps.

If you use monolithic steps in areas with heavy traffic, you can expect them to resist abrasion, compromising the aesthetic qualities of the staircase. The material has the same texture throughout its entire thickness and does not reveal problems, even when the lower layer of porcelain stoneware appears. New technologies today offer sizes of 1200x600, which allows you to implement bold interior solutions.

Monolithic steps are suitable for the following types of stairs:

Marching;
Console;
Ridge (staircase at hospitals);
Screw.

To fit to different types cutting of steps will be required required sizes or forms.

At factories you can order steps to suit your shapes and sizes. You can also order additional manipulations, such as anti-slip slots or a rounded edge.

But you can also adjust the size and shape at any stone processing plant. In addition to the steps, you can choose a plinth, risers and background tiles, which, in combination with monolithic steps, will give the staircase a complete look.

The only, but not critical, disadvantage is the number of colors (the variety is less than that of ceramic tiles) and surface textures.

Basic textures of monolithic steps:

A natural stone;
Monocolor;
Salt pepper.

Of course, the expansion of offers on the market has not bypassed the stage; wood-look porcelain tiles can also be used for stairs. In addition, the projects take into account everything, not just the desired tile design, size matters.

Standards for porcelain stoneware steps for home

Steps for stairs made of porcelain stoneware can be made from ordinary background stone of any size. This option will reduce costs in the overall staircase implementation budget. The aesthetic disadvantage of this solution is the presence of a grouted seam. The installation process is no different from the process of laying tiles. The main thing in this process is the correct calculation of the material. Also in favor of this decision are the safety requirements for flights of stairs in public buildings(buildings of class F1.1), where the width should not be less than 135 cm. Accordingly, monolithic steps one meter long will have to be made with side treads, and the distance that will fall under the staircase handrails must also be taken into account.

The popularity of porcelain tiles over tiles remains a trend; in the desire to make cheaper, ceramic tiles are considered first. Moreover, in variants with ceramic tiles there is a large offer of steps with capinos; porcelain stoneware is inferior in this regard, since manufacturers initially focus on the strength of the material and the processing of the edges.

Support of tiles for the implementation of correct and comfortable stairs is based on the following principles:

Convenient descent;
Convenient lift;
Minimum lifting load (a person should not get tired);
In a single design with the entire interior;
With non-slip surface.

It is believed that comfortable movement is ensured when the ratio of the height of the flight of stairs to its projection onto the horizontal plane is 1:2. The building designer will be able to calculate the necessary and comfortable characteristics of the house's staircase, taking into account the finishing materials used, including the thickness of the tiles included in the project. If the calculation is made incorrectly, then using such a ladder will be inconvenient and uncomfortable. A person using it simply will not fall into a natural step. Nowadays quite often shopping centers this error is being traced.

The thickness of the tiles for the step is taken into account taking into account the adhesive layer. We must not forget about this when designing.

If you observe that a person is walking unnaturally, and adjusting one step to the next step, you will immediately understand what kind of design error is at the root of this problem. In this case, steps made of porcelain stoneware provide only what is required by the material and there is no problem with them. An error of a different nature.

Surface of porcelain stoneware steps:

Matte;
Polished;
Embossed.

The problem can be created by the dimensions of the staircase, which are larger or smaller than the entire length of the tile for the implementation of the staircase. Tilers can get out of this difficulty by increasing or decreasing the tile joint. In some cases, it will be necessary to replace the material if it does not sufficiently cover the installation site, but if the tiles are larger than the width and length of the step, then this can be solved simply by trimming.

A solid staircase or one consisting of individual elements should be made based on your own preferences. In any case, the production of steps from porcelain stoneware involves the production of a large number of additional elements.

Additional elements for stairs:

Vertical plinth;
Horizontal plinth;
Riser.

Using them with steps gives the whole solution a finished look.

Types of steps:

Standard;
With adhesive;
Team.

Dimensions are not included in standardization, as they can be any, the main thing is the manufacturing method. The so-called glued nose may not create problems only if expensive glue, correctly selected, and professional installation are used. Otherwise, they will simply break off. Replacement will be expensive and problematic. The baseboard is made from background tiles. It is also recommended to select them according to the same tone, so that a different tone does not appear. Claims from the customer cannot be avoided if this moment is missed. Even sellers sometimes forget to say this. And claims after installation are not accepted, so you will have to purchase at your own expense and correct errors. Moreover, ordering the right baseboards and risers in tone will also not be easy. The seller may simply not have them in the right tone. The appearance of the desired tone from the manufacturer is not predictable in time. Of course, they keep records of the colors they produce, but getting the right tone is quite difficult.

Ceramic granite is one of the most popular materials both for indoor flooring and for all kinds of stairs.

Distinctive features of porcelain stoneware

A number of its remarkable properties make porcelain stoneware steps for stairs the undoubted leaders in this segment, since this material:

environmentally friendly - made from natural clay and has no background radiation;
high density and integrity of the structure - only a diamond can scratch the surface;
moisture resistance – practically equal to zero;
resistant to mechanical and acid influences - tensile strength 600 kg per 1 sq.cm;
withstands sudden temperature changes - frost - 50°C, heat + 50°C;
one of the non-flammable building materials, moreover, does not conduct electricity;
the color does not fade or change even after decades;
highly hygienic material - light and easy to care for.

Provided that porcelain stoneware products are installed correctly and accurately, the manufacturer provides a guarantee for half a century. Manufacturing quality tiles practice in Italy and Spain, Russia and the UAE.

With such large selection You can stylize the steps under natural stone, and under metal, and under natural wood. Such an amazing external imitation will become the basis and Starting point for the entire interior design.

Types of porcelain stoneware steps

Steps for stairs made of porcelain stoneware come in two types - solid (without seams along the entire length of the step) and, accordingly, seamed.

The one-piece type is marketed as finished products standard sizes (1200x330x20mm), and there is an opportunity to make an exclusive order according to individual parameters. Solid steps, due to their aesthetics and presentable appearance, look more attractive - a single, integral surface pattern looks more advantageous and more thorough.

Monolithic porcelain stoneware steps are made from slabs with a thickness of 12 mm or more, and as a set - from 10 mm. You can also choose different rolling of the front edge of the step - straight, semicircular or embossed.

Ready-made prefabricated collections used for cladding stairs with porcelain stoneware are divided by size and component elements: front, base and corner.

Porcelain stoneware staircase sets consist of several parts, namely:

ceramic corner - cornice;
attack – main horizontal tile;
riser – vertical element staircase design;
plinth.

The figured edge forms a single whole in monolithic options, and in prefabricated kits the cornice is a separate element. The structure is mounted on a pre-prepared base made of metal, brick or concrete.

Technique for cladding stairs with porcelain stoneware

Each type of porcelain stoneware steps has some installation features:

For any of these types, installation is carried out in the following sequence:

Before starting to cover the steps of stairs with porcelain stoneware, it is necessary to check the dimensions of the object and materials for compliance;
To fit and join parts of the porcelain stoneware collection, it is recommended to use a water-cutting machine, since it leaves no chips or cracks;
Apply to the cleaned surface of the stairs with a roller or brush. acrylic primer deep penetration to improve adhesion between the base and tiles;
The steps are laid on the stairs from top to bottom using a special adhesive for porcelain stoneware, applied to the base using a notched trowel. The adhesive composition must be diluted strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

In addition to the above, laying prefabricated steps has its own characteristics:

To obtain ideal joints, porcelain tiles, in comparison with the steps, should be either level or wider than them;
If the side part of the step protrudes, then you should measure and cut it in advance with a grinder with a turbo disc;
First, all the fits are laid and leveled, then the risers and cornices are carefully laid out;
The final stage is laying the skirting boards. At the same time, do not forget that they are right- and left-handed.

Thanks to the reliability of porcelain stoneware, its scope as a finishing material for stairs is limitless: indoors and outdoors, in offices and cottages, clubs and supermarkets.

Notches on porcelain stoneware steps reduce the risk of slipping

Both matte and polished surfaces of the steps are equipped with anti-slip notches for safety. This is most relevant for finishing street structures, especially if the staircase is heated (for this you can use the “ “ system).

The main difference between laying porcelain tiles outside is to take into account the impact of negative natural phenomena:

A tiny drain channel located on the side of the outer tiles will increase the service life, since water will not accumulate and destroy the surface.
A special hard rubber profile at the corners of the steps will preserve them and protect them from ice.

Elegance and status, diversity color range and structure, ease of cleaning and installation - all this makes porcelain tiles one of the the best materials for decorating and transforming stairs.

The building materials market is unusually wide, and the region is especially diverse decorative finishing. This time our focus is on porcelain stoneware, in particular on the steps that are often created from this modern material.

Peculiarities

Making steps from porcelain stoneware is a small area where this material can be used. But it is precisely in such elements that it looks most advantageous. The material is created from kaolin clay. Auxiliary components are added to it. It can be mica, spar, quartz.

In terms of its characteristics, porcelain stoneware is very close to granite, and in terms of strength it is only two points inferior to diamond. This option is more than interesting, it’s worth paying attention to.

Advantages and disadvantages

Porcelain stoneware has a set of features due to which it is primarily considered for finishing staircases, floors and various areas:

High wear resistance and resistance to mechanical damage, which allows the material to be used in rooms with high load on the floor and steps, as well as outdoors.

Water-repellent characteristics are ensured by a dense structure without pores, cracks or cavities. The production of porcelain stoneware involves the use of high pressure. Porcelain stoneware steps can be installed outdoors and in rooms with high humidity.

Inertness and lack of chemical activity expands the scope of installation of porcelain stoneware steps. During operation, they can be cleaned using aggressive agents, which ensures easy maintenance.
The products can withstand temperature changes from -50 to +50 degrees.

The material does not pose any danger to the human body and does not harm the environment.

Resistant to fire and non-conductive to electric current.

Color fastness, despite exposure to ultraviolet radiation, intensive use, frequent cleaning and other negative factors.

This material also has negative sides. There are very few of them and they can be neutralized or minimized:

Correct and precise installation plays a big role in ensuring long service life. Material performance may be reduced if errors occur during installation.

A cold surface creates a lot of inconvenience when decorating a living space. This problem can be solved by using a carpet, but in this case it will be hidden decorative surface material. You can also install a “warm floor” system; porcelain stoneware allows you to implement such an idea.

True, you will have to spend money on work and materials, but the house will be warm and beautiful.

Kinds

Porcelain tiles are produced in a wide variety, which expands the scope of its use and opens up unlimited possibilities for the user to implement bold design ideas.

Products with dimensions of 120/30 cm are often produced from a solid sheet. The solid structure consists of treads and risers. Such steps look neater than a similar structure created using the suture method. Monolithic products are higher, but the strength is also higher high level. But repairing a separate part of the steps is impossible; the entire layer will have to be replaced.

Seamless and seamless surfaces can be created from individual slabs. The second option looks much better, but it requires experience and a lot of time. Although, with skillful installation and a successful choice of tiles, the seams can look appropriate and harmonious. Most often, such porcelain tiles are available in three sizes: 30/30, 45/45 and 30/60 cm.

The colors of porcelain tiles are amazingly diverse. If desired, you can order unique material, which will make the steps the main element of the interior. Wood-effect tiles look noble and fit perfectly into classic interiors. Marble-look porcelain stoneware steps are a chic option that always remains relevant. Such an interior element will stand out favorably and become a decoration of the room/building. White, black, green, shimmer, a combination of several colors - any idea will find its solution in this material.

The sizes of porcelain stoneware for steps can be different, which makes the choice convenient and not difficult.

Tiles with dimensions 1200x300 mm are one of large options, which is popular among Russian users. Porcelain tiles 300x1200 can significantly reduce the number of seams. There are tiles with longer– 1600x300. Such long elements will cost more than tiles with smaller dimensions, but the installation process is greatly facilitated. There are also some long steps made of porcelain stoneware, their size is 1500x300 mm. Tiles 120x30 and 30x30 are easy to install, their parts are light and small-sized, so you can work with them without outside help.

The processing method is one of the criteria that divides the tiles into several categories. Sanded or matte tiles go through a rough sanding and light polishing process. Steps made of such material will not slip even in frost, snow and rain. This option is primarily chosen for street stairs. One more a good option for the installation of stairs on the street, unpolished steps are used. Glazed tiles are slightly mirror-like, but also non-slip. Serves good choice for outdoors and indoors equally. Polished tiles reflect light well, but also glide perfectly. It requires an anti-slip pad to ensure safe operation.

How to choose?

To make the right choice and buy everything you need to create complete, safe and beautiful steps, you need to know the configuration and purpose of each component element:

The tread has cuts and stripes, they are necessary to ensure good grip on shoes and reduce slipping. Some models have grooves for collecting and draining water, which is important for the porch.

A riser is a wall installed vertically relative to the treads. The main characteristic is height. This element is now available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. If desired, you can create a unique architectural composition.

The plinth is a corner element. It gives the structure a complete look and makes corner connections aesthetic.

The monolithic design has differences in configuration. The tread and riser are a single element.

The correct choice, although based on the information presented above, also requires compliance the following tips and recommendations:

Moisture absorption should be kept to a minimum. When choosing a tile, it can be moistened with water; it should spread over the surface and flow down, leaving virtually no trace.
The steps on the street should be lined with rough porcelain tiles. It will not slip even in frost and heavy rainfall.
When choosing tiles for outdoor work, you need to pay attention to the quality of coloring. If the dye completely fills the material, the color will maintain its intensity and brightness throughout the entire period of operation.
Marching stairs require the use of straight slabs. For staircase structures screw type requires beveled elements. Such material is difficult to find on the open market; more often you have to make individual order. In addition, the installation process is more complex, but the end result is beyond all expectations.

You can use glazed porcelain tiles in houses and apartments; they look chic and are cheaper than other analogues. For rooms with high floor loads, you need to choose a polished, matte or unglazed material. The wear resistance and durability of these types of porcelain tiles are higher.

Separate leading edge profile makes it easier and cheaper possible repairs steps. In this case, you will only need to replace one element, and not the entire tread.

The height of the riser is an important parameter for choosing porcelain stoneware, which will largely determine further work. If the height does not coincide with the design parameters, then the risers will have to be cut. In this case, it is not advisable to choose elements with a pattern; it is best to opt for a monochromatic option.

Steps with capinos have rounded edges. Such a staircase is aesthetically attractive, looks complete and fits more harmoniously into any interior.

Installation features

Porcelain tiles are easy to lay on the surface. There are no particular difficulties in this process. You will have to study the stages of work in detail and observe the subtleties that professionals use.

The work algorithm is as follows:

The base for laying the material must be carefully prepared. Any irregularities must be eliminated, chips and cracks must be filled. The preparation is completed by applying a primer. It is necessary to apply primer; it improves the ability of surfaces to adhere to each other.

We compare the tiles and the prepared base. If necessary, we make adjustments. To cut tiles, you must use a special machine. This is the only way to achieve a perfect edge without causing damage to the material. It would not be superfluous to check the packaging for consistency of colors, shades and patterns.

Cooking adhesive composition according to the recommendations that the manufacturer necessarily puts on the packaging. Usually the essence of this stage comes down to mixing the dry mixture with water using a mixer. The mixture should brew, this takes about 10 minutes.

Let's start laying the tiles. We will move from top to bottom so that we do not have to step on the laid, but not yet fixed tiles. We start with the riser, then the front part follows. Using a notched trowel, the adhesive mass is applied to the base.

The corner part of the steps requires the installation of a corner. It can be metal or plastic. A fugue is required for grouting joints. Contamination from the tiles that occurs during the installation process can be easily removed.

Just as any well-established theater complex begins with the foyer, so any decent home begins with the staircase. And it is quite clear that the steps for stairs play vital role in the general perception of any, and also presentable, structure. That is why it is important to think through every little detail.

Steps from artificial stone and porcelain stoneware fit perfectly into any building style.

It could be:

Modern;
High tech;
Baroque;
Classic.

Porcelain stoneware stairs unobtrusively indicate respectability and practicality. It is worth dwelling on this type of stairs in a little more detail. When building a staircase structure, undoubtedly, the frame plays an important role, as well as its decoration and finishing. The decorated staircase structure is an excellent addition to any design project for a cottage or large mansion.

Installation is usually performed concrete steps followed by finishing:

Porcelain tiles;
Wood;
Natural stone.

Porcelain tiles for stairs are the most in demand today. Granite steps can withstand very heavy loads. In addition, porcelain stoneware material is durable. Its advantages make it possible to use the material when creating interfloor flights of stairs in cottage buildings and private houses. The technology for producing steps from porcelain stoneware makes it possible to obtain unique colors and create unique designs.

Advantages and types of steps for porcelain stoneware stairs

Porcelain stoneware steps for staircases are becoming increasingly popular. The splendor of the staircase largely depends on the cladding, surface and color chosen. Steps made of porcelain stoneware material are an excellent solution for staircase construction in a residential building due to the best symbiosis of durability, quality, and cost. Porcelain tiles have different shades, as well as different type surfaces and drawing.

Russia issues following types surfaces:

Not polished;
Polished;
Polished;
Embossed.

Porcelain tiles are used both for interior decoration as well as for stairs located outside the building.

One of the advantages of the material is large decorative possibilities, because modern technologies help imitate the texture and color of almost any type of stone.

Granite finishing of stairs: technical characteristics and forms

Steps finished with porcelain stoneware have certain specifications.

Abrasion resistance;
Strength and high density;
Waterproof;
Resistance to mechanical stress;
Resistance to temperature changes;
Integrity of structure and color fastness;
UV resistance;
Weather resistant.

It is important to note that granite steps for staircases may have different shape and colors. This abundance of choice increases the possibilities of their application. Matte steps are best suited for staircase structures. This surface is non-slippery, which significantly reduces the risk of injury when using stairs.

During the operation of such stairs, people calculated correct height 1 step lies within 10 - 15 cm.

It is this data that manufacturers use and all parts for steps are made according to it. Created a large number of various levels, but also more types structures where they are used. The most in demand are 2 types of stairs, spiral and marching. Staircase structures may have different widths and height, which means that any finishing of steps with granite will inevitably lead to adjustment in place necessary elements. Typically, one of the main attributes of a staircase structure is the plinth. Whether it is needed depends on the overall decoration of the room.

Chic staircase finishing with porcelain stoneware

Porcelain stoneware has proven itself ideally as a building material for finishing works. It is created from natural raw materials and is environmentally friendly. In addition, granite steps for staircase construction have highest strength and density. You can only make scratches with a diamond, they are so durable. This building material Resistant to frost, liquid and heat.

Cladding stairs with capinos can be done as in one piece granite slabs, and prefabricated.

Building materials stores sell ready-made steps made of porcelain stoneware measuring 1200 by 330 by 20 mm, which is the standard. Solid steps make it possible to avoid many seams and joints. With prefabricated ones, you can use elements of various patterns, colors and make original look staircase structure. When choosing the cladding, the edge of the future tread is also immediately selected.

It may look like this:

Rectangular;
Round;
Raised.

When finishing steps with porcelain stoneware, it is important to remember some points. It is necessary to accurately measure the size of the rough steps, as well as the cladding. There must be a complete match. To cut porcelain stoneware, it is better to use a water cutter. This machine will prevent the formation of chips and cracks when cutting. If you need to cut the side that is adjacent to the wall, you can take an angle grinder with a turbo disc.

The surface of the march must be cleaned and the treads and steps must be coated with acrylic primer. The installation of building materials should begin from top to bottom, the tiles should be “set” using special glue for porcelain tiles. The mixture must be applied with a notched spatula. During finishing, the side and front part of the steps extends 20 mm beyond the riser. After this, you need to trim part of the side of the riser along with part of the concrete, which is then puttied and plastered, painted to match the walls. The cladding begins with the tread, and then the risers are finished. A staircase finished with porcelain stoneware looks clean and presentable. This staircase is beautiful and safe.

Porcelain stoneware staircase tiles: how to care for the structure

Porcelain stoneware steps for staircases do not require special procedures for processing and maintenance; standard cleaning and maintenance are sufficient for them. Absolutely any detergents are suitable for caring for surfaces made of porcelain stoneware for staircase structures.

The material cladding has an almost endless service life, while they retain their:

Aesthetics;
Practicality;
Functionality.

Finishing the stairs with porcelain stoneware (video)

Porcelain stoneware steps are not afraid of dirt and retain their original colors during use. They do not need to be coated with special protective polishes. Steps are lined with granite once and for life. This way, the house will have a comfortable, beautiful and durable staircase for decades.

Granite staircase design (interior photo)

It would seem that it could be simpler than ordinary staircase. It is familiar and familiar to everyone, gray, nondescript, present in every entrance of any city multi-story building. However, Cinderella can turn into a princess. Likewise, a simple staircase turns into something unusual and pleasing to the eye if it has steps made of porcelain stoneware.

Standard flights of stairs have become so familiar to us that sometimes we forget that the staircase is an independent element of design and landscape. What tasks can it perform during registration? interior space or appearance buildings, in addition to the usual transition from floor to floor, can be painted for a long time, and this will be an exciting activity that opens up a new understanding of a completely familiar thing. But leaving aside purely aesthetic and design issues, let’s try to consider the practical functions that an ordinary staircase solves, and why steps made of porcelain stoneware are needed.

What is a step

In order to know what the concept of a step includes, just look at the photo below.

Everything is listed on it constituent elements steps made of porcelain stoneware. Of course, this is only a schematic representation of the stage. Actual performance will differ from that presented, although the difference will not be fundamental.

So, the tread can be either solid or prefabricated. What such steps made of porcelain stoneware look like can be clearly seen in the photographs below; the left photograph shows a tread designed to span the entire width of the step, and the right one shows one of the elements from which the step itself is assembled.

The resulting cladding of steps with porcelain stoneware is shown in the photo

Here it is probably necessary to make a small digression. After describing what a step is, the question of steps made of porcelain stoneware was raised, although the characteristics of the material itself were not considered.

About the properties of porcelain stoneware

Porcelain stoneware is an artificial material obtained by processing raw materials. Clay, sand, quartz and mineral dyes are used in this capacity. First, all components are ground to a dusty state in special mills, then mixed with water and with each other in a certain proportion, and the finished homogeneous mixture of the required moisture content is sent for preliminary drying and pressing. Depending on the desired result, the pressing operation can be carried out in two stages.

Pressing is carried out under high pressure, the result is a tile without internal voids, cracks and cavities. After another drying, the tiles are annealed, which is carried out at a temperature of 1300°C. At this temperature, the initial components begin to melt and enter chemical reactions each other, and eventually forms new material– porcelain stoneware. Its distinctive characteristics are:

low, almost zero water absorption. Thanks to this feature, porcelain stoneware does not absorb moisture and can be used both in conditions of direct exposure to water and high humidity;
immunity to temperature changes. Porcelain tiles like finishing material can work in conditions of low and high temperatures;
high abrasion resistance and mechanical strength;
high resistance to chemicals;

Thanks to such excellent properties, porcelain stoneware is used as a finishing material, which is used to:

flooring in conditions of high humidity, direct exposure to water and significant abrasive loads;
finishing of building facades and interior walls.

About porcelain stoneware steps

Now, after familiarizing yourself with the capabilities of porcelain stoneware, you can return to considering its use, in particular for the manufacture of steps from porcelain stoneware. Although this use of tiles, due to its characteristics, is one of the best possible options its application, it is necessary to understand the basic requirements that porcelain stoneware steps must meet:

safety, on the steps there should be no possibility of injury due to their slippery surface;
possibility of long-term operation without additional maintenance and costs under the most unfavorable external conditions;
ease of maintenance of the surface of porcelain stoneware steps;
the appearance of the steps should be pleasant and give pleasure, combined with the overall interior;
installation should be fairly simple and not cause too much difficulty or expense.

How security is ensured

Before considering safety issues, it should be noted that tiles, porcelain tiles for steps are used or not, may have different surface. The main types of tile surfaces are as follows:

polished, obtained by grinding the surface using diamond abrasives and water. This surface is very smooth and slippery;
unpolished, obtained immediately after firing without additional processing. The surface of the tile is rough, if you use such porcelain tiles for steps, its price will be minimal in relation to other types of tiles, and it will not slip;
polished surface, which is obtained as a result of special (matte) polishing;
relief surface, repeats the surface structure natural stone and has an anti-slip effect.

To ensure safety, it is necessary to use steps made of porcelain stoneware with unpolished or relief surface. In this case, the possibility of slipping is significantly reduced, and you can use the stairs without fear of injury.

In addition, to ensure safety, there are additional grooves on the surface of the porcelain stoneware steps. They are specially applied to the tiles by manufacturers. You can see what it looks like in the photo below.

This approach is especially relevant if these are outdoor steps made of porcelain stoneware. Water getting on the surface of the tile can cause increased slipping, and this tile profile helps to avoid this.

About porcelain tile options

Previously, various designs of tiles were mentioned, and similar photographs were provided. Now we can consider this issue in more detail. For comparison, two photographs are shown side by side: on the left are monolithic steps made of porcelain stoneware, on the right are prefabricated ones.

Any of the options considered allows you to get an excellent result and achieve a wonderful impression when used for finishing porcelain tiles. So it is purely a matter of personal choice, using monolithic steps will create fewer seams and such a finish will give a more cohesive impression without allowing general perception break into small parts.

However, with the option of finishing porcelain stoneware steps using separate elements, there is another positive point. If any individual slab is damaged, only one element will have to be replaced, and not the entire tread.

Another feature of porcelain stoneware tiles used for finishing steps is the option of making the leading edge. It can be made integral with the tile, as shown below in the left photo, or it can be composite, as in the right photo.

In the latter case, the profile forming the front edge of the tile is separate independent detail and allows, if necessary, to reduce the cost of repairing the coating, since usually during intensive use damage occurs on the edge of the tile

About steps with risers

The question of choosing and using porcelain stoneware steps with risers primarily concerns the size of a particular staircase.

Despite the generally accepted step height of 15 cm, there are isolated cases of different heights of staircase steps. Then the dimensions of the riser have to be adjusted to the actual dimensions of the step height, which requires frequent cutting of the tiles if they are larger than the height of the step.

This solution is quite acceptable when using single-color tiles, but cannot be recommended when the riser is a tile with a pattern, such as in the photo below.

If you cut such a tile, the design will be disrupted and the beauty created during finishing will disappear. Therefore, often, when deciding which porcelain stoneware steps to buy, the choice can begin with the choice of risers in order to prevent their trimming when installing on the stairs.

About steps and baseboards

An indispensable attribute of steps can be considered a plinth. It allows you to maintain a uniform design style for the entire room. If a plinth is used everywhere around the perimeter, then it should also be used when decorating the steps. Manufacturers make special kits that include the baseboard.

Of course, you can also use tiles cut into pieces as a plinth, but this is only possible with single-color tiles. Besides, cut edge does not produce the most best experience. And with this use of tiles, there may be difficulties in joining them along the edge of the step, especially if it has a rounded shape.

About prices and purchasing steps

As always, this question is the most difficult. Today, the choice of porcelain stoneware steps is extremely wide. There are special collections offered the best manufacturers from Italy and Spain. The only question is the price; elite porcelain stoneware steps have a corresponding cost. Of course, there is always the opportunity to buy steps made of porcelain stoneware, which are sold when the collection of manufacturers is updated.

At the same time, you should not limit yourself to considering products from imported manufacturers only.

Today, domestic factories produce high-quality porcelain tiles; steps, whether Russia is their manufacturer or another country, will serve for a long time if the manufacturing technology is followed during the production process.

Moreover, in the manufacture of steps it is offered to the consumer full set with plinth and riser.

And elite producers may also have violations. But the price when using steps domestic producers will be lower than that of elite Western ones. The manufacturing quality of the steps is checked visually by their appearance.

Steps for the manufacture of which porcelain stoneware is used, when making the right choice provide excellent finishing for both stairs exposed to the atmosphere and indoors. Their service life is at least 50 years, and throughout the entire period the steps retain their appearance and do not require additional costs for maintenance.