Encaustic cement tiles are manufactured in an artisanal process and their main raw material is cement. The conventional models are on average 11/16” thick and, in many cases, the installation takes place with other types of coverings, such as porcelain tiles and ceramics, making it necessary to lower the subfloor so that all are at the same height. 

Adama will now produce encaustic cement tiles through a compaction system so that the tile is only 7/16” (average thickness of porcelain tiles and ceramics), making the product lighter, easier to install and with the same durability as conventional. 

Decks are a solution for outdoor areas. But, when we talk about wooden decking or products that reproduce this type of material, they end up retaining more heat due to the dark coloring. 

Castelatto launched an athermic deck - it is a specific cement floor for the outdoor area, which does not heat up and also has the possibility of capturing water. This material can be used for the elevation of floors, housing the machinery of the pool or other desired items. 

One of the big bets at the fair was the Corstone launch made by Weiku. Made nationally, the product allows to include an image reproducing the chosen coating between two sheets of glass. Because it is completely sealed, the piece guarantees safety, durability of high-strength glass, and UV protection. 

At Revestir they presented a collection that reproduces exotic marble, with the advantage of being lighter, facilitating installation. It is considered a high standard product with good cost-benefit and formats ranging from 100x100 cm to 300x150 cm.  

Large format coatings are here to stay! When installed on floors and walls, they create a spaciousness effect. But one problem faced is the lifting of the parts, since many are over 2 meters and do not enter the elevators. 

Thinking about this difficulty, Roca launched the 2 x 1 m format, suitable for entering the elevator and in different patterns that reproduce marbles, concrete, steel… 

Metallic coatings cannot be used outdoors, as many models receive a surface paint that is not resistant to weather conditions such as sun, rain and may dilute with changes in temperature. 

This year, Portinari launched a 3D porcelain tile without relief in the format 30 cm x 1.20 m and 60 cm x 1.20 m that can go on facades. They developed a metallized paint that does not suffer chemical attack and guarantees durability. 

Teto Vinilico is one of the first companies focused on products for the ceiling. There are 23 options of finishes for internal areas and in different styles of surfaces that reproduce different woods and concrete.  

The product is extremely light, has an imperceptible fitting system, corners with an angle greater than 90 °, is faster to install and has flexibility for curved base designs. 

* Lilian Santos has a degree in Interior Design and Marketing. She always has a smile on her face and a travel plan prepared. She has been working in specialty tile shops for a long time and created the blog Revestindo a Casa to share all her technical knowledge, trends and inspirations.