Porcelain tiles are made of a compact, non-porous, highly resistant material. Formulated with clays and sands, they are dry pressed and fired in kilns at high temperatures.
Porcelain tiles stand out for having an almost nil water absorption rate. This allows them to withstand high and low temperatures, also making them suitable for use both indoors and out.
Inalco boasts a wide range of porcelain tile collections conspicuous for their design, colours, textures and finishes, in large formats and thicknesses of between 4 and 20 mm.
Thanks to the development of state-of-the-art technologies and innovations, Inalco's porcelain tiles have the highest technical performance with timeless and trendy designs , inspired by fine materials that allow the development of exclusive and differentiating surfaces. Their main advantages are:
Modern, trend-setting designs and gentle textures.
Sophisticated, neutral colours of timeless beauty, ranging from toasted stone shades and camels to white or pure black.
A multitude of finishes, including natural-look, polished, bush-hammered and non-slip ones.
Formats of up to 150 x 300 cm, making tile joints a thing of the past and replacing them with continuous surfaces.
A high resistance and durability. This makes Inalco porcelain tiles suitable for use in both public and private environments.
A low water absorption rate, enabling the tiles to be used both indoors and out and also as cladding on façades.
Easy to clean and care for. Porcelain tiles have a high resistance to staining. In addition, for everyday cleaning, only water and a damp cloth are needed.
Inalco boasts a wide range of products:
Slimmker 6mm-thick slimline collections, ranging in size from 50x100 cm to 150x300 cm. Full details of our collections can be found at wall and floor tiles., and also of the 10/10,5 mm standard thickness porcelain tile range
Inalco also manufactures the innovative ITOPKER range for use as countertops, worktops and furniture, combining the latest design, a large format and cutting-edge materials with thicknesses of 4, 6, 12 and 20 mm. Find out more about iTOPKer Solutions at iTOPKer Countertops.
Inalco’s porcelain tile collections come in a variety of finishes such as natural, bush-hammered, matt polished and high-gloss polished ones. Thanks to the innovtive H2O IPLUS Full Digital manufacturing technology, this infuses them with a high degree of warmth and natural beauty. A non-slip finishing is also available, combining the most current design with the highest technical performance, necessary for use in indoor and outdoor wet areas.
For further information about our collections’ finishes, check the website´s wall and floor tiles section.
Inalco tiles feature different finishes and surface relief patterns, conceived to enhance their appearance and boost their technical properties.
Natural-look porcelain tiles. Collections with a highly original design. See Inalco’s collections with a natural finish.
Polished porcelain tiles. These tiles are treated after they have been manufactured to polish the surface and give it a glossy shine. Inalco has two types of polished finishes: a high-gloss polished finish with a mirror-like shine and a satin polished finish with an eye-catching, elegant more gentle polish. See Inalco’s collections with a polished finish.
Bush-hammered porcelain tiles. These tiles feature a gentle surface relief texture, suitable for use anywhere, both indoors and out. See Inalco’s collections with a bush-hammered finish.
See the finishes of our collections here.
Thanks to the superior benefits of Inalco porcelain tiles, all the tile models can be used on walls and floors, providing that certain tile-laying requirements are met, as specified in the manuals available in the Technical Guide section.
Nonetheless, some collections have a design specifically conceived for use on walls. If you are not sure if this is the case, contact us by e-mail at correo@inalco.es.
Abrasion is wear and tear that occurs over time due to friction between shoes (through treading on surfaces), wheels, tyres or any other object on the tiled floor.
All Inalco porcelain tile collections for floors meet – and indeed surpass - the requirements of the EN-ISO 10545-6 standard (Resistance to deep abrasion).
Shade variation is a slight variation in colour and/or design found in tiles of the same model. This means that each tile in the batch is different, although there is still continuity in their general design.
Inalco is the first company worlwide to implement the innovative H2O IPLUS Full Digital productive technology, allowing for the creation of models where no two tiles in a batch are totally identical, in a reflection of nature’s own products. This leads to outstanding visual results.
See our range of collections with shade variation.
Inalco has a complete range of non-slip products that combine design with the highest technical performance, features essential in the most demanding projects.
Resistant to thermal contrasts, with virtually no water absorption and great resistance, the non-slip floors of Inalco are ideal to be placed in indoor and outdoor wet areas, such as terraces, outdoor stairs, bathrooms or swimming pools, among others.
Inalco boasts a wide range of non-slip models able to guarantee visual continuity since tiles of the same design can be used on all floor surfaces of the home, indoors and out. INALCO non-slip porcelain tiles comply with the main international regulations regarding anti-slip safety.
The terms breaking strength or breaking load are a parameter used to measure the resistance of a ceramic tile when a force is applied to the middle of its surface at a specific speed.
Inalco porcelain tiles surpass the requirements of the EN-ISO 10545-4 standard in the case of both tiles of a standard 10mm thickness and its 6mm slimline Slimmker tiles.
One characteristic of porcelain tiles is their practically null water absorption rate, ensuring a very high resistance to high and low temperatures. This makes them ideal for use in outdoor areas.
In addition, many of Inalco’s porcelain tile collections feature models with an non-slip finish, thus ensuring added safety in wet areas like gardens or poolside terraces by preventing possible slips or falls.
For further information, see our non-slip collections.
One of the key advantages of porcelain tiles is their practically null water absorption rate (0,1%). This makes them suitable for use outdoors (on terraces, façades etc), where they are able to withstand high and low temperatures, rain, and frost or ice.
Despite their hardness, porcelain tiles can become scratched with the passage of time or through improper use. If they are not given a certain minimum care or attention, they can gradually lose their initial shine. Polished tiles are suitable for residential use and they should be protected during both the tile-laying process and everyday cleaning. Doormats should also be used in entrances from outside areas in order to remove dirt or grit from footwear that might scratch the surface of the tiles.
See our range of collections with a polished finish.
Inalco tiles are eco-friendly products, since part of the company’s philosophy is to use pollution-free manufacturing processes and to work toward a sustainable environment.
INALCO’s environmental policy can be summarized in the following points:
The reduction, re-use and recycling of all waste in the same production plant. INALCO porcelain tiles are made of between 40 and 50% recycled materials.
The optimized consumption of resources in both the manufacturing process and in all the company’s other departments.
The reduction of emissions. INALCO controls and filters all atmospheric emissions and it promotes strategies to reduce greenhouse gases so as to help comply with the objectives of the Kyoto Protocol.
The H2 O IPLUS Full Digital technology introduces the water as base for the decoration with inks and glazes. With it, INALCO obtains products with the highest definition without generating any polluting emissions and reduces the consumption of water during the production process up to 70%. In addition to a greater use of the resources by using the inks at its 100% and by minimizing the production of residues.
For further information, see the ECOINALCO section.
It means that the edges of the tiles have been cut in such a way that they are absolutely straight so that all the tiles have exactly the same dimensions. All Inalco porcelain tiles are rectified.
It is a digital tile printing system and international innovation launched by Inalco in 2005. By using CMYK inks, high-definition results and far more natural designs can be achieved, and the tiles can be printed right across the surface, including any raised and recessed sections of relief textures.
Inalco decorates all its porcelain tile collections using IPLUS digital technology.
Inalco is the first company in the world to have introduced H2 O IPLUS Full Digital technology. This innovative water-based technology allows for the creation of collections with an outstanding resolution, as well as being sustainable and environmentally friendly. With it, INALCO obtains products with the highest definition without generating any polluting emissions and reduces the consumption of water during the production process up to 70%.
Inalco’s Raised Floor System for Interiors and Exteriors is a raised access floor system made up of ceramic tiles of a standard thickness, resting on pedestals of an adjustable height. This easy-to-install system, which requires no building work, ensures level floor surfaces. Inalco porcelain tiles for raised access floors are specially reinforced on the underside to guarantee a high mechanical resistance to heavy loads and impacts, thus preventing the need for heavy materials like calcium sulphate or chipboard panels or bonded double tiles often used in such systems. In addition, thanks to the variety of formats in which Inalco porcelain tiles come, models can be found to meet the technical and aesthetic requirements of projects of all kinds. For further information, see the section Raised Access Floors on our website or see our Tech Videos.
SLIMMKER is the Inalco brand name for all its series of 6mm-thick slimline porcelain tiles. Slimmker combines the benefits of standard porcelain tiles with a special slimline thickness. The resulting tiles are more environmentally friendly, lighter and hence easier to handle.
See Inalco’s Slimmker collections.
Inalco’s 6mm-thick SLIMMKER porcelain tiles come in several large formats, ranging from 50x100 cm to 150x300 cm.
Inalco uses the latest technology in the production of its slimline Slimmker tiles, creating models with a natural-look, bush-hammered, and matt and high-gloss polished finishings, even in the case of its largest formats (150x300 and 100x250 cm).
Like Inalco’s standard-thickness porcelain tiles, Slimmker porcelain tiles can be laid on both wall and floor surfaces, providing that the tile-laying guidelines in the manuals available in the Technical Guides section of Inalco’s website are followed.
Even so, some collections have a design conceived for use on walls. If you are not sure if this is the case, send an e-mail to correo@inalco.es
In addition to the advantages of normal porcelain tiles, the Slimmker collections offer the following extra benefits:
Relief patterns and textures on slimline large formats of up to 150x300 cm. Inalco was the first company in the world to apply relief patterns and textures to large slimline formats.
A multitude of finishes, including a natural-look, polished, bush-hammered and non-slip finish.
Formats of up to 150 x 300 cm, making tile joints a thing of the past by replacing them with continuous surfaces.
Because these are slimline tiles with a thickness of just 6 mm, SLIMMKER is easy to cut or to perforate.
Because the tiles weigh less, they are easier to handle and lay.
Energy savings are made because fewer resources are required in the manufacturing and transportation processes and less ink and packaging is needed.
A more sustainable, eco-friendly product.
Thanks to the reduced thickness of Inalco’s slimline SLIMMKERtile collections, these tiles are ideal in refurbishment projects for use on top of existing floor coverings.
Check the guide and the video of laying.
Inalco’s large-format porcelain tile series are perfect for use on façades because they are lighter and reduce the load withstood by the building. In addition, thanks to their design and technical characteristics, they offer numerous advantages when used to clad façades or in other architectural applications. These include a high durability, high resistance, low maintenance and energy savings.
For further information, click here to see our Tile Façade Manual.
ITOPKER are innovative surfaces for countertops, worktops and for cladding furniture with thicknesses of 4, 6, 12 and 20 mm that combine cutting-edge materials, large format 150x320 cm and a high design appeal.
ITOPKER increases porcelain tile´s uses and applications, allowing its use as furniture fronts, countertops and table tops; as well as backplashs or any other use that a professional can imagine.
ITOPKER Countertops is Inalco’s range of 6,12 and 20mm-thick porcelain slabs in a large 150x320cm format.
Available in a wide range of different colours and visual finishes, ITOPKER Countertops ensures stylish designs expanding the use possibilities of porcelain tiles.
See the downloadable online ITOPKER Catalogue in Inalco’s Catalogues section.
ITOPKER Fronts is Inalco’s range of 4mm-thick porcelain slabs in a large 150x320cm format mainly conceived for use as cladding furniture.
ITOPKER Fronts come in different colours and visual finishes so as to ensure stylish, trend-setting designs.
See the ITOPKER Catalogue.
ITOPKER porcelain slabs offer numerous benefits:
They are stain resistant.
They are easier to clean and care for.
They are heat resistant.
They are scratch resistant.
They are very hygienic.
iTOPKer Solutions slabs are very resistant to the wear and tear that comes with use.
They are resistant to frost and ice and low temperatures.
They are resistant to ultra-violet rays.
They are resistant to impacts and have a high bending strength.
They have a high bending strength.
High resistance to thermal contrasts.
For further information, see the Benefits of ITOPKER section and the ITOPKER Countertops explanatory videos.
Inalco products are eco-friendly, since part of the company’s philosophy is to use pollution-free manufacturing processes and to work toward a sustainable environment.
INALCO’s environmental policy can be summarized in the following points:
The reduction, re-use and recycling of all waste in the same production plant. INALCO porcelain tiles are made of between 40 and 50% recycled materials.
The optimized consumption of resources in both the manufacturing process and in all the company’s other departments.
The reduction of emissions. INALCO controls and filters all atmospheric emissions and it promotes strategies to reduce greenhouse gases so as to help comply with the objectives of the Kyoto Protocol.
H2O IPLUS Full Digital technology introduces water as base for inks and glazing decoration. Products with an outstanding resolution are obtained without generating polluting emissions, and water consumption is reduced during the production process with savings of water up to 70%. Also, a greater use of resources using 100% inks are obtained while minimizing the generation of waste.
For more information, see ECOINALCO section.
ITOPKER porcelain slabs are highly resistant to impacts by everyday objects and utensils (everyday items found in kitchens, restaurants and laboratories).
ITOPKER slabs do not need any special care or cleaning products. Stains can be cleaned away with water or common cleaning products. They are not affected by substances like solvents, detergents, bleach, oil, vinegar, or citrus juice, providing that these stains are cleaned away within 24 hours.
For further information, see the Benefits of ITOPKER section and the ITOPKER Countertops explanatory videos
ITOPKER slabs are scratch resistant, thanks to their highly resistant surfaces. Even so, chopping boards should be used to chop or cut food in order to conserve the beauty of their surfaces and their design.
For further information, see the Benefits of ITOPKER section and the ITOPKER Countertops explanatory videos.
One of the main features of porcelain tiles is their low water absorption rate of less than 0.1%. This makes them ideal for use in outdoor areas (terraces, ceramic façades, ..) where there might be sharp changes in temperature, including rain,frost and ice.
The ITOPKER collections are made of porcelain tile material. Thanks to their low water absorption rate of less than 0.1%, they are ideal for use in outdoor environments subject to frost and ice.
ITOPKER slabs are resistant to ultraviolet rays and so their surfaces are colourfast, even when used outdoors.
For further information, see the Benefits of ITOPKER section and the ITOPKER Countertops explanatory videos.
The surface of ITOPKER porcelain slabs is non-porous, thus preventing the build-up of bacteria or mould. This means that they are food grade.
The bush-hammered finish is no problem when it comes to handling food. Indeed it is even more scratch resistant than the natural finish, although we always recommend the use of a chopping board for cutting food.
ITOPKER slabs can be cut or drilled for use anywhere, providing that the right tools and techniques are used.
See ITOPKER Countertops Cutting Guide andvideo:
Inalco Basins is a new series of products aimed at offering architects and interior designers another tool in the creation of projects with a high added value. These free-standing washbasins have all the technical benefits of the company’s other products: they are resistant to knocks, scratches and thermal shocks, they are easy to clean, and because they have a nil water absorption rate, they are very hygienic and prevent the growth of bacteria.
Inalco Basins has been initially launched with the Hydra model, available in five finishes: Larsen Super Blanco-gris Natural, Petra Crema Bush-hammered, Silk Camel Natural, Senda Gris Natural and Storm Negro Natural. Thanks to its elegant design and choice of colours, this is a very versatile washbasin, combinable with all Inalco’s other collections for design projects with a well-balance harmonious appeal.
To ensure long-lasting tiled wall or floor surfaces clad in Inalco tiles, some basic tile-laying guidelines must always be followed in the case of both its 10mm standard-thickness and 6mm-thick slimline Slimmker tiles.
For further information, consult the Tile-Laying Manual and the Technical Videos our Youtube Channel.
Cutting Inalco porcelain tiles on site is easy, providing that professional tools are used, such as a radial arm saw or manual tile cutter. Always follow the basic cutting recommendations found in the technical section of our website and use tools that are in good condition.
For further information see the Guide to Cutting Porcelain Tiles.
Yes, Slimmker porcelain tiles can be cut in the same way as standard thickness porcelain tiles.
For further information, see the Guide to Cutting Slimmker Tiles and the Cutting video.
Inalco porcelain tiles can easily be perforated to create covers for inspection hatches and light or pipe connections or for any other use.
For further information see the Cutting Guide.
Tile joints are the separation left between adjoining ceramic tiles. They serve to absorb any expansion or movement in the substrate due to temperature changes or slight structural movements. It is important to remember that substrates on which ceramic tiles are laid should always be clean, stable and level.
A tile joint of at least 2mm should be left between the tiles, using spacers and self-levelling wedges to make sure that the tiles are properly aligned, with a joint of the same thickness.
Porcelain tiles must always be grouted, both for aesthetic reasons and to avoid pathological risks (damp, fungus etc.).
Grout for porcelain tiles of a similar colour to the tiled surface should always be used, suitable for the place where the tiles are laid (indoors, outdoors, wet areas etc.).
A wide variety of grouting materials are available nowadays (waterproof, deformable, anti-acid etc.). Depending on the type of product, the manufacturer should specify the waiting time that is needed from the time that the tiles are laid until they can be grouted.
Always observe the necessary setting times and remove all surplus grout, taking care not to wait too long after the specified setting time.
Important: When grouting polished porcelain tiles, do not use ‘lamp black’ coloured grout due to the micronized carbon used to make it, since it will penetrate the surface pores of polished porcelain tiles and thus be very hard to remove.
Once porcelain tiles have been laid and grouted, after the required setting time has elapsed, the surface must be properly cleaned to remove all cement or grout residues. For this purpose, a slightly acidic detergent like Deterdek by Fila should be used that does not give off toxic fumes or damage the grout, tiles or surrounding areas.
If porcelain tiles are laid on floors and the building work there has not concluded, the tiled surface must be protected with sheets of cardboard to avoid any direct contact with building materials, tools, machinery etc.
To remove atmospheric dust from porcelain tiles, just clean the surface with a dust mop or dry cloth. Do not use wax-based products or polishes.
For further information, see the downloadable Cleaning Manual.
Once they have been laid, porcelain tiles do not need any kind of special maintenance. Due to their composition and firing temperature, they are almost impervious.
Once they have been properly laid, it is vital to remove any surplus cement or grout, using specific products.
For further information, see the Cleaning Manual.
EcoInalco is Inalco’s public commitment to the environment and to society. It encompasses all the human and technological resources directed at preventing the impacts of its activities, together with ongoing reviews of the processes and investment needed in order to work toward sustainable development.
For further information, click here to go to the ECOINALCO section of the website.
Inalco´s Environmental Policy (EcoInalco) can be summarized in the following points:
The reduction, re-use and recycling of all waste in the same production plant. INALCO porcelain tiles are made of between 40 and 50% recycled materials.
The optimized consumption of resources in both the manufacturing process and in all the company’s other departments.
The reduction of emissions. INALCO controls and filters all atmospheric emissions and it promotes strategies to reduce greenhouse gases so as to help comply with the objectives of the Kyoto Protocol.
Innovation and technology.
Yes, by using Slimmker porcelain tiles, up to 10 LEED points can be obtained.
For further information, see the LEED Points heading in the ECOINALCO section.
Inalco is the first company in the world to have introduced H2O IPLUS Full Digital Technology. This innovative water-based technology allows for the creation of collections with an outstanding resolution, as well as being sustainable and enviranmentally friendly.
Partida Saleretes, s/n.
12110 Alcora (Castellón) SPAIN
Tel. (+34) 964 368 000
Fax: (+34) 964 368 050
e-mail: correo@inalco.es