Overview and Inspiration

The Upper collection by Fondovalle is inspired by the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote, Canary Islands, reflecting the natural interaction between volcanic magma and the Atlantic Ocean. This inspiration results in a design featuring complex, authentic textures with veining, contrasts, and depth, aimed at delivering a tactile and visually captivating experience emphasizing naturalness and uniqueness.

Design and Aesthetic Features

The collection offers four main colors: Fog, Dove Grey, Elephant Grey, and Butter. Tile formats include large sizes (120x278 cm, 120x120 cm) and medium sizes (60x120 cm), with thicknesses of 6.5 mm and 8.5 mm respectively. A textured Stick decor option enhances surface appeal. The color intensity and shading variations provide strong character, suitable for sophisticated, natural, and contemporary interiors.

Technology: Matt&Deep Surface Treatment

Upper tiles utilize exclusive Matt&Deep technology, producing an extremely matt, three-dimensional surface by embedding pigments and materials deep into the porcelain stoneware substrate. Key benefits include:

• Very low surface reflection
• Enhanced three-dimensional aesthetics
• Soft tactile feel and easy cleaning
• High shading variability
• Excellent mechanical resistance

Outdoor Solutions: 2.OUT Porcelain Stoneware Slabs

The collection includes 2 cm thick porcelain slabs (100x100 cm) designed for outdoor use. These slabs offer versatility and durability for residential and commercial settings, with multiple installation methods: traditional adhesive on screed, direct placement on grass or gravel, and raised installation on pedestals. They coordinate seamlessly with indoor tiles for cohesive indoor-outdoor design.

Product Specifications and Technical Information

Upper porcelain stoneware tiles belong to Group BIa UGL and are rectified for precise installation. Surface finishes include Natural and Grip, with slip resistance ratings of R10 (Natural) and R11 (Grip). The Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF) exceeds 0.42, meeting international standards such as BS EN 16165_C, AS 4586 (P3), and UNE-ENV 12633 (Class 2). Thickness and sizes are:

• 6.5 mm: 120x278 cm, 120x120 cm
• 8.5 mm: 60x120 cm
• 2 cm: 100x100 cm outdoor slabs

Design Coordination and Accessories

The collection includes coordinated accessories such as linear and angular steps and skirting boards in matching colors and finishes, enabling comprehensive design solutions that maintain visual continuity and enhance the natural, sophisticated atmosphere.

Product Specifications and Sizes

The UPP series includes various ceramic tile products with sizes ranging from small battiscopa (8x80 mm) to large slabs (120x278 cm). Thicknesses vary between 6.5 mm, 8.5 mm, and 2 cm for trims and outdoor tiles. Each product has a unique code and is rectified for precise installation.

Color Variants and Suggested Grout

Three main color variants are Elephant Grey, Elephant Grey Stick, and Dove Grey, each paired with recommended grout colors (e.g., black for Elephant Grey, sand for Dove Grey) to complement the tile aesthetics.

Packaging and Weight Details

Packaging details specify pieces per box, coverage area, weight, and crate dimensions. For example, 6.5 mm thick 120x278 cm tiles cover 3.33 m² per box with a crate weight of approximately 929 kg. Special trims and thicker tiles have specific packaging and are sold in complete boxes.

Special Trims and Accessories

Special trims such as linear and angular bullnose steps (gradone toro lineare and angolare) and L-shaped elements are available on request. These trims are 2 cm thick and designed to complement main tile products for finishing edges and steps.

Technical Characteristics and Compliance

The tiles comply with UNI EN 14411_G standards for porcelain stoneware (Group BIa UGL). Key technical properties include:

• Chemical Resistance: Resistant to acids and bases (UNI EN ISO 10545-13)
• Stain Resistance: Minimum Class 3 (UNI EN ISO 10545-14)
• Color Resistance to Light: Resistant (DIN 51094)
• Slip Resistance: Rated A+B for barefoot (DIN EN 16165_A), R10 for shod feet (DIN EN 16165_B), compliant with DCOF and Pendulum tests
• Fire Reaction: Classified A1 FL (high fire resistance, UNI EN 13501-1)
• Dimensional Tolerances: Compliant with length, width, thickness, edge straightness, rectangularity, and planarity standards (UNI EN ISO 10545-2)
• Water Absorption: ≤ 0.5% for tiles under 120 cm, ≤ 0.1% for tiles 120 cm or larger (UNI EN ISO 10545-3)
• Mechanical Strength: Bending and breaking strength exceed minimums, higher for thicker tiles (UNI EN ISO 10545-4)
• Abrasion Resistance: Within limits, better for thicker tiles (UNI EN ISO 10545-6)
• Thermal Shock and Frost Resistance: Resistant and frost-proof (UNI EN ISO 10545-9 and 10545-12)

Declared values are based on laboratory tests and may vary slightly between production batches.

Additional Information and Legal Notices

For detailed installation and maintenance instructions, users are referred to www.fondovalle.it. The document includes copyright restrictions and reserves the right to technical or formal modifications. Colors shown are indicative only.

Summary of Key Benefits

• Natural, innovative aesthetic inspired by volcanic landscapes
• Exclusive Matt&Deep technology for realistic, matt, textured surfaces
• Wide range of sizes and thicknesses for indoor and outdoor use
• High slip resistance and compliance with international safety standards
• Versatile installation methods including traditional and raised outdoor options
• Coordinated accessories for complete design integration

The Upper collection is ideal for creating unique, natural, and sophisticated environments with strong tactile and visual impact, suitable for residential and commercial projects.