Ceramic Tile Flooring, Walls and Floors

Ceramic tiles are a stunning option that is easy to maintain and durable. Ceramic tile is a great option for any room of the home. There are a lot of things to consider when choosing ceramic or porcelain tiles for your next project. It is important to know the differences between these two tile types.

Floor Tile

Ceramic tile flooring is a long-lasting, water-resistant, and beautiful option for any space in your home. Choose from a wide selection of designs and colors to suit your style, from patterned tiles that add interest and texture to glazed floor tiles for a sleek look. It's easy to clean and robust enough to withstand the demands of a busy family. Ceramic tiles are made from clay and sand. They are then ground into small pieces, then pressed under high pressure in order to form an mold. They are then baked in the kiln, which gives them strength. The tiles are then glazed or left unglazed, depending on the intended use. Unglazed tiles hold between 3to 7% moisture, making them ideal for indoor use in areas that have little foot traffic. They can be found in a range of styles, including Saltillo, a traditional Mexican tile made from natural clays, or porcelain-based tiles with a granite looking surface. Glazed tiles can be used as floors, walls, or backsplashes. They are ideal for residential bathrooms that receive moderate traffic. They are available in a wide selection of colors and finishes, as well as decorative options such as mosaics, borders, and inlays. Also available in various sizes, including large-format pieces that are suitable for wall and flooring applications.

Wall Tile

Ceramic wall tiles are popular in kitchens and bathrooms because they are resistant to the effects of moisture, bacteria, odors and scratching. It is also easy to maintain and comes in many colors and designs. It can be used in virtually any pattern for installation and trim pieces, borders and inlays are often added to highlight decorative elements. Ceramic tile is produced from clays that are low-fired, unlike porcelain which is fired at extremely high temperatures. By adding a fluxing agent, like feldspar, the tile can be made at lower temperatures. This conserves energy and reduces emissions. The most popular type of ceramic wall tile is the subway tile, which can be laid in a pattern of running bond with straight vertical joints, or in a straight grid. These types of tiles are usually formed by semi-dry pressing and one firing. For the best results, ceramic wall tiles should be installed using an adhesive that is thin-set. Apply the adhesive using a notched trowel as recommended by the manufacturer of the tile. While working you can gently tap the back of the tiles against your knee or the short block of wood to ensure that the adhesive is set. When all tiles are set and you are ready to grout. To ensure a level grout line, employ a professional tile level to test the flatness of the floor prior to grouting.

Bathroom Tile

A popular option for floors and walls in bathrooms, ceramic tile is impervious and odors. It also resists stains and is abrasion-resistant. Available in a wide range of designs and colors, it can be used for an array of design styles. Utilize borders, inlays and mosaics to add visual interest. Also, you can repeat the same design throughout your space to create a cohesive design. Ceramic tile is an excellent option for kitchen backsplashes as well as showers. It is easy to clean and stands well against repeated exposure to water which makes it a great option for homes that are busy. However, its durability can be a problem in areas populated by small children or elderly adults who could fall and break items against the surface. It's also not enough soft to provide comfort beneath the foot which makes it unsuitable for rooms with furniture, or for those who have to stand for prolonged periods of time. Ceramic tiles are made of a mix of clay, sand, or other raw materials. They are then fired in order to create a hard material which creates them durable and flexible. The manufacturing process and the raw materials differ, leading to different types of ceramic tiles. Some tiles are porous and require different maintenance. Some are even glazed to produce decorative designs and colors. It is important to understand the differences in porosity, color and hardness prior to installing ceramic tiles.

Kitchen Tile

Ceramic tile backsplashes make a great choice for any kitchen, whether you're renovating or building your own. They are easy to install and customizable, it's a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable and durable material to protect their kitchen walls from moisture and stains. Available in a range of sizes, colors, designs, and shapes, this timeless material lets you to create an interior that is a reflection of your personal taste. Select from the classic style and warmth of wood-look tiles, or the sophistication and elegance of stone-like imitations. There are also textured surfaces that add a touch of elegance to your design. Ceramic is a strong material for floor tiles however it can be damaged by a number of impacts. It's therefore important to hire a professional installer to complete the installation of your ceramic tile. They can deal with any unexpected obstacles that arise during the installation process and ensure that your floor looks fantastic. The brittleness of ceramic tile can be tough on your feet, back and joints when you sit for prolonged periods of time in your kitchen. You might want to consider a cushioned rug on the stove or in the sink to help ease this discomfort. Like any tile ceramic, it may be cold underfoot in winter, which is why you may be tempted to install radiant heating systems.