Tile Flooring

How does porcelain tiles differ from ceramic tile?

 

Ceramic is actually a term used to cover a range of clay based products while porcelain is a specific type of ceramic. However, there are porcelain and non-porcelain ceramics. Porcelain is made from porcelain clay fired at an extremely high temperature. It is very strong and has a water absorption rate below 0.5%.

 

What are the benefits of ceramic tile flooring?

 

Ceramic tile flooring is an extremely durable, long lasting choice. It is often moisture, stains, and wear resistant and is very easy to clean and maintain. It is available in an array of colors, shapes, sizes, and designs and can be installed in almost any situation.

 

What are the differences between stone and ceramic tiles?

 

Stone is often cut showing the natural texture of the rock itself, which tends to have variations, fissures, and other possible flaws. However, its unique, natural beauty is hard to match. Ceramic flooring is a manufactured product that offers a more consistent and uniform surface. Stone flooring tends to require more maintenance as it requires periodic professional deep cleaning and is also porous, making it less stain resistant.

 

What tile flooring colors and designs are available?

 

The options are almost unlimited. Tile flooring can be produced in a variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and designs. It comes in many different styles including rustic, contemporary, traditional, and so on. Ceramic tile floors can also mimic the appearance of natural stone or wood.

 

How do glazed and unglazed floor tiles differ?

 

Glazed floor tiles have been coated with a glassy finish which often incorporates color, texture, or design, and is fired at very high temperatures. Unglazed floor tiles do not have this surface as the color comes from the body of the tile itself. This can be natural color from the clay or other minerals or can be added to the mixture before forming and firing the tiles. Because the color extends through the entire tile, these are great for high traffic areas as they do not show wear as easily.

 

What is the average lifetime of tile flooring?

 

When properly installed and maintained, ceramic tile floors can last a lifetime. Unglazed tile shows less wear than glazed tile and will last longer in high traffic areas. Porcelain tile is known to be the longest lasting.

 

Are ceramic tile floors an expensive choice and are they worth it?

 

Ceramic tile floors tend to cost more than some other flooring choices, such as vinyl, but the benefits often make up the difference. Tile flooring can last a lifetime without needing replacement, and it is easy to maintain. Most ceramic tile will also increase the perceived value of your home.

 

Where can tile flooring be installed?

 

Tile flooring is extremely versatile and can be installed in almost any situation above, below, or on grade. Many tile floors are frost, heat, and moisture resistant and can be installed outdoors for porches, pool decks, patios, and so on. Glazed tiles and wet tiles can become slippery and are not recommended in areas where this may be a problem. Ceramic tile is great in kitchens, entryways, or other areas that require a tough, durable surface. Refer to the PEI rating to find the best ceramic tile flooring for your situation.

 

How is tile flooring installed?

 

The most common method involves affixing the floor tile to the substrate using an adhesive or mortar, then filling the joints with grout. 

 

How do I choose the right grout for my tile floors?

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You should choose a color that blends with the colors in the floor tile. The color of the grout will slightly vary in each installation due to different environmental factors and installation methods, so finding an exact match may be difficult. Darker grout tends to be easier to keep clean, but modern grout is often stain and mildew resistant so maintenance is very simple.

 

Can Ceramic tile be used outside?

 

Yes, but it must be the right type of ceramic tile and it must be installed properly. One of the most important things to consider when selecting a ceramic tile for exterior application is the water absorption rate of that tile. It is generally recommended that you choose a tile with a water absorption rate of 3% or less, with less than 0.5% (porcelain) being ideal. If your tile absorbs too much water it may damage the tile, especially if the water freezes and expands, which will cause the tile to crack. You may also want to consider a through-body unglazed porcelain tile, meaning that the top color runs throughout the tile, which makes chips and damage less noticeable in the event your outdoor tile sees some extra abuse.

 

What are some basic tile care instructions for Porcelain and Ceramic?

 

Porcelain and ceramic tile is resistant to germs and bacteria and it is also among the easiest of flooring materials to clean. You can clean your porcelain tile with a damp sponge mop. A solution of 1/4 cup of white vinegar to 2 gallons of water works best- allowing time for drying. You can also sweep or vacuum. Although the glaze of a tile is impervious, it is still possible for its surface to discolor from certain chemicals.

 

What size grout joint should I use?

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Grout joints are an aesthetic decision. Rule of thumb is that larger joints have a tendency to crack and attract more dirt than smaller joints. A thin grout joint ranges from 1/8” to 3/16”. If your tile design contains multiple sizes, a 1/4” grout joint lends a consistent, cohesive look to the finished floor.