Gauged porcelain tile panels/slabs (GPTP) are gaining a lot of traction in the tile and stone industries as of late. The large-format materials, which are technically defined as tiles measuring 1 x 1 meter (40 x 40 inches) or larger, have been around for almost 10 years now, but have been creating a lot of buzz in the marketplace over the last handful of years.
Tile manufacturers continue to push boundaries with GPTP, in terms of design and size, crafting porcelain interpretations of everything from natural stone to wallpaper and even personalized pictures. Some panels stand as tall as 12 feet, with thicknesses that range from 1/8 inch (3 mm) to 3/4 inch (20 mm). However, new 3 cm (30 mm) options have been introduced recently to use as pavers for outdoor walkways, patios and driveways. Although GPTP are commonly seen on interior flooring and walling, as well as exterior facades, the innovative material also been utilized to create furniture and other household accessories.