What is Porcelain Stoneware?
Porcelain stoneware as those ceramic tiles with a very low water absorption (between 0.5% and less than 0.1%), dry-pressed and with a very low water absorption (between 0.5% and less than 0.1%), dry-pressed or, to a lesser extent, extruded and manufactured by single-firing. They may have a masked or unmasked finish.
One of the main advantages of porcelain stoneware is its high resistance, being a highly recommended option if you are looking for durability above all. It remains unalterable to sudden changes in temperature and high humidity levels, so it is a classic for coating the walls or floors of bathrooms.
Its surface, being non-porous, remains unalterable against stains. This is due to the fact that the manufacturing process is carried out at very high temperatures, creating a totally compact material, in which water hardly penetrates and dirt doesn't penetrate either.
What is microcement?
Microcement it is the name used to designate the material resulting from combining cement and resins - which give it flexibility - with pigments, responsible for its color.
It is easy to associate microcement with cement, and to think that it is a very resistant material. But this is not the case, because its response to impact and scratching is similar to that of wood: it will mark if a heavy object falls on it and scratches. In addition, certain cosmetic products can stain it.
One of its main advantages, is that it can be applied over the existing material without the need to tear it off (but not on wood flooring).
The number one enemy of ceramic floor tiles are the joints, because they break the sensation of visual continuity and are also where most dirt accumulates. Thanks to the XL formats and to the rectified finish of the ceramic pieces -which are millimetrically cuts to achieve a straight finish at a 90º angle-, nowadays we can achieve much more integrated surfaces for a total aesthetic and visually pleaseant infinity look.
In short, in my experience and advice, applying microcement on walls or surfaces where it is not going to be walked on is a smarter idea. Using porcelain tile on floors is the best option, but it always depends on the degree of maintenance you want to give to the space. Taking care of it, the microcement can be kept perfect for a long time.