Cement-Effect Porcelain: The Crack-Free Alternative to Microcement

Quick answer: cement-effect porcelain achieves the continuous, industrial look of microcement without its drawbacks. It doesn't crack, needs no resins or varnishes, doesn't stain, and resists frost and heavy foot traffic. In large rectified formats (59x59 or 80x80 cm), the joints are minimal and the result comes very close to a seamless surface.

Microcement vs. Cement-Effect Porcelain

Microcement Cement-Effect Porcelain
Look Seamless, no joints Nearly seamless with 1-2 mm joints
Cracking Possible if the substrate moves Does not crack
Maintenance Periodic protective varnishing None, just cleaning
Stains and impacts Sensitive Very resistant
Application Specialized applicator Any tile installer

Cement-Effect Flooring

Collection Format Tones Highlights
Treviso 29.3x59.3 Pearl, Greige, Beige, Cloud Microcement look; R10 and R12 versions, plus a Dots pattern
Novara 59.3x59.3, 10 mm White, Natural, Grey, Graphite Loft-style concrete, colored body, R10 version
Modena 59.3x59.3, 10 mm White, Cream, Grey, Graphite Fine, serene trowelled finish, a neutral backdrop for the whole home
Torino 59.3x59.3 White, Beige, Ash, Anthracite, Mocha Warm cement with subtle cloud shading; R10 version
Rimini 80x80 White, Cream, Cement, Graphite Matte (also for outdoor use) or silky-glossy Polished
Rieti 30x30, 7 mm White, Grey, Graphite, Mixed R10 (CTE Class 2) for patios, porches and garages
Terni 58.3x58.3 Sand, Basalt, Rust, Graphite Industrial oxidized-metal effect, R10

Cement-Effect Wall Coverings (32x99 cm)

  • Milano: Light and Sand, with an architectural-lines relief and an art-deco pattern.
  • Pavia: White, Sand and Cement, each with a relief version, plus a multicolor pattern.
  • Como: cloud-shaded cement in White and Sand with Facets, Waves, Bands, Lines and Squares textures.
  • Ravenna: cement in color (Mustard, Rust, Green) with old gold, copper and bronze metallic accents.
  • Verona: four neutrals, reliefs, warm fluted textures and Mosaic and Patchwork pieces.

Matte or Polished

Matte is the all-rounder: it doesn't show footprints, is safer underfoot, and works outdoors. Polished multiplies light and gives a more sophisticated feel, ideal for living rooms and retail spaces, but isn't recommended for wet areas or outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cement-effect porcelain better than microcement?

For most homes it's more practical: it doesn't crack, needs no varnishing, and better withstands impacts and stains. Microcement only wins if you want a completely joint-free surface.

Which format gives the fewest joints?

Large rectified formats, such as Rimini in 80x80, which achieve an almost seamless look with 1-2 mm joints.

Can I use the same cement effect on the floor and the wall?

Yes. The porcelain floor tiles also work on walls, and there are 32x99 cm wall coverings in tones that pair with them.

See also: porcelain terrazzo and how to choose tile.

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