A Basic Guide To Floor Tiles

Tiles are an excellent choice for flooring.  Boasting low maintenance, durability, and a great diversity of appearances; tile flooring is an excellent choice for a variety of flooring needs.  If you are considering tile flooring, here are a few basic concepts you will want to know.

Types of tile – There are two basic types of tile: ceramic and natural stone.  Ceramic tiles are made from clay and fired in a kiln.  Natural stone tiles as the name implies, are segments of natural stones such as marble and granite.

Ceramic tiles

There are a wide variety of ceramic tiles to suite a wide variety of needs.

Unglazed ceramic tiles keep the natural look of the clay from which it is made.  These tiles are common in outdoor areas.

Glazed tiles are ceramic tiles that have been coated with a combination of frit (ground glass) and metallic oxides (the glaze itself).  With a wide array of colors and finishes, these tiles have a multitude of uses.

Porcelain tile is made from a white clay and fired hotter and longer than any other ceramic tiles.  These tiles are extremely durable.

Terra-cotta tiles are the least durable of the ceramic tile, but if you’re looking for a rustic appearance, these tiles are for you.

Mosaic tiles are any tiles smaller than six inches.  These smaller tiles are often used to create decorative or artful floor designs.

Natural stone tiles

Natural stone tiles are cut from naturally occurring stones.  The most popular of these are marble, slate, and granite.  When looking for natural stone tiles, you will want to consider the types of finish.

A polished finish will look shiny and smooth.  These tiles can be very slippery when they are wet.

A honed finish is duller than the polished finish and has a little more traction as well.

Additionally, each type of natural stone tile has one or two finishes that are unique to that specific stone type.

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