Ceramic Tile Flooring, Walls and Floors

Ceramic tile offers high-definition beauty blended with simple maintenance and long-lasting. It's the ideal option for every room in the home. When choosing ceramic or porcelain tile for your next project, there are plenty of things to take into consideration. It is important to be aware of the differences between the two tile types.

Floor Tile

Ceramic tile flooring offers a durable, water-resistant and stunning option for any room in your home. Choose from a wide range of designs and colors to match your style, from patterned tile that adds interest and texture, to flooring tiles that are glazed for sleek design. It is easy to clean and sturdy enough to withstand the demands of busy families. The main components of ceramic are clay and sand that are crushed into fine particles, then compressed under high pressure to create a molded shape, and then fired in a kiln to give the tile its strength. The tiles are then glazed or left unglazed depending on the purpose for which they are intended. Unglazed tiles are perfect for areas with low foot traffic. They can absorb anywhere from three to seven percent of moisture. They are available in a wide variety of styles including Saltillo, a traditional Mexican tile made of natural clays or porcelain-based tiles that have granite-like surfaces. Glazed tiles can be used as flooring, walls, or backsplashes. They are recommended for bathrooms with moderate traffic. They come in a diverse range of colors and finishes as well as decorative options such as mosaics, borders and inlays. Also available in various sizes, such as large-format pieces that are suitable for wall and flooring applications.

Wall Tile

Ceramic wall tiles are very popular in bathrooms and kitchens due to the fact that they are resistant to moisture, bacteria, odors, and scratching. It is also easy to clean and comes in a variety of colors and designs. It can be used for practically any installation pattern. Trim pieces border pieces, inlays, and borders may also be added to emphasize decorative elements. Contrary to porcelain, which can be fired at high temperatures typically, ceramic tile is made of low-fired clays. By adding a fluxing agent like feldspar, the tile can be produced at lower temperatures. This saves energy and reduces the emission. The subway tile is a very popular ceramic wall tile. It can be laid with grid patterns or in a running-bond pattern. These tiles are typically made with a semi-dry press and a single firing. Installing ceramic wall tiles with a thin-set glue will give the most effective results. Apply the adhesive by using a trowel with a notched edge, according to the guidelines of the manufacturer of the tile. While working to apply the adhesive, gently rub the back of the tile against your knee or a block of wood to embed it in the adhesive. After all the tiles are set then you can grout. To ensure a level grout line, employ a professional tile-level to test the flatness of the surface prior to grouting.

Bathroom Tile

Ceramic tile is a popular option for flooring and walls in bathrooms. It is resistant to stains, odors, and bacterial. Ceramic tile is available in a range of patterns and colors, allowing it to be used for a variety of design styles. Use borders, inlays and mosaics to add visual interest. You can also repeat the same style across your space to create a cohesive design. Ceramic tile is a great option for kitchen backsplashes and showers. It is easy to clean, and it can withstand repeated exposure to water. This makes it a great option for busy households. Its hardness could be a problem in areas that are frequented by children or older people who are prone to drop things and break them on the surface. It's also not enough soft to provide comfort for the feet which makes it unsuitable for rooms with furniture or for anyone who needs to stand for extended periods of time. Ceramic tiles are a mix of sand, clay or other raw materials. They are then fired in order to create the hard substance which is durable and pliable. The manufacturing process and raw materials vary, resulting in different kinds of ceramic tiles. Certain tiles are porous, and require different maintenance. Some are even glazed to create decorative finishes and colors. The different porosity levels and hardness are why it is important to know what you're purchasing before installing ceramic tile flooring.

Kitchen Tile

Whether you're building your dream kitchen from scratch or remodeling the galley area of your kitchen, you can't go wrong with ceramic tile backsplashes. 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 stains and moisture. Available in a wide array of sizes, colors, shapes, and patterns this timeless material allows you to design an interior that is a reflection of your personal style. Choose from the classic look and warmth of wood-look tiles or the sophistication and elegance of stone-imitations. There are also textured surfaces that help you to enhance your design. While ceramic is a strong option for floor tiles but it's still vulnerable to chips and scratches if subjected to intense impact. For this reason, it's crucial to hire a professional installer complete the installation of your ceramic tile flooring project. They are able to handle any unexpected obstacles that arise during the installation process and ensure that your flooring looks stunning. Ceramic tiles can be hard on your joints, feet and back if standing for long hours in your kitchen. Consider installing a cushioned mat at the sink and stove to help ease the discomfort. Ceramic tiles can be cold to the touch during winter. You may need an electric radiant heating system.