CHOOSE THE SUPPLY FORMAT
Material selection
These are sourcing considerations, not a performance ranking. Trade names can overlap; confirm the manufacturer’s product classification and technical data.
CHOOSE THE SUPPLY FORMAT
Slabs or tiles?
Start with the project.
| What to consider | Large-format slab enquiry | Porcelain tile enquiry |
|---|---|---|
| Design layout | Review usable slab dimensions, cutting layout and visible faces. | Review tile module, laying direction and joint arrangement. |
| Fabrication scope | State whether you need raw slabs or pieces to approved drawings. | State the supplied tile format and any site-cutting requirements. |
| Handling plan | Confirm lifting equipment, access, supports and packaging. | Confirm pack quantities, pallet data, storage and site distribution. |
| Technical review | Request model-specific guidance for the intended assembly. | Request results for the intended location, exact model and finish. |
Do not treat sintered stone and porcelain slab labels as a guaranteed distinction in performance or composition. Evaluate the actual product and intended use.
SPECIFY WITH CONFIDENCE
The details behind
a surface decision.
A material name is the beginning of a specification. Confirm these details against the exact model, not against a generic category description.
| Decision | What to confirm | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Nominal size, usable size, trimming and dimensional tolerances. | Connect the supplied material to the cutting plan or installation layout. |
| Thickness | Actual thickness, permitted tolerance and support requirements. | Coordinate fabrication, substrates, edges and handling. |
| Finish | Approved physical sample, sheen, texture and cleaning guidance. | Review the surface in the intended light and conditions. |
| Appearance | Shade references, pattern faces, direction and adjacent-piece layout. | Agree expectations before approving the batch. |
| Performance | Model-specific reports for the intended use and destination. | Avoid applying a test result to an untested product or finish. |
A PRACTICAL BUYER’S REFERENCE
Choose by product evidence and supplied form
Sintered stone, porcelain slabs and porcelain tiles are commercial descriptions that do not answer every technical question. Compare actual products, their documented properties and the supplied form needed for your application.
Separate material language from the buying unit
A slab enquiry may concern a blank for local fabrication; a tile enquiry may concern finished modular pieces. Neither description establishes every available size, thickness or finish. Record the supplied condition before comparing prices or planning installation.
- Identify raw material or finished components.
- Compare model-specific documentation instead of broad labels.
Use an application-led shortlist
The right comparison starts with the surface role: a supported top, bonded wall finish or floor needs its own review. Decide which requirements are essential, then compare the proposed models against those requirements. Do not use a generic material ranking as a substitute for evidence.
- List the relevant appearance and performance questions.
- Have the project team assess the complete assembly.
A PRACTICAL BUYER’S REFERENCE
Three levels of a material decision
| Level | Question | Avoid assuming |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Does the appearance fit the space? | A matching photo means an identical surface |
| Product | Does this model meet the brief? | A category name proves every property |
| Assembly | How will it be supported and installed? | Material strength approves the whole system |
Material selection
Questions buyers ask
Is sintered stone always better than porcelain tile?
There is no useful universal ranking without an application and exact products. Compare the required format, visual layout, evidence, processing and installation scope.
Can I choose a material only from its absorption figure?
That figure addresses one property. Other use-specific requirements and the complete assembly still need review.
LET’S START A CONVERSATION
Your next project
starts with a surface.
Tell us what you are sourcing. We will help turn your requirements into a clear product enquiry.