Ceramic Tile Flooring, Walls and Floors

Ceramic tile provides high-definition beauty coupled with simple maintenance and long-lasting. Ceramic tile is an excellent choice for any room in the house.

When deciding between ceramic and porcelain tile for your next project, there are plenty of aspects to take into account. Educating yourself on the differences between the two types of tile is a must first step.

Floor Tile

Ceramic tile flooring offers an extremely durable, water-resistant and stunning option for any room in your home. Pick from a variety of colors and designs to suit your style, from patterned tiles that add interest and texture, to glazed floor tiles for an elegant look. It is easy to clean, and sturdy enough to withstand the demands of busy families.

Ceramic tiles are made from clay and sand. They are crushed into tiny particles, and then pressed under high pressure to create molds. They are then baked in the kiln to give them their durability. These tiles are then glazed or left unglazed, based on their intended use.

Unglazed tiles absorb between 3% and 7% moisture, which makes them suitable for indoor use in areas with light foot traffic. There are a variety of styles such as Saltillo which is a traditional Mexican tile made from natural clays. You can also choose porcelain-based tiles that have an appearance similar to granite.

Glazed tiles can be used as walls, floors, or backsplashes. They are ideal for bathrooms that have moderate traffic. They are available in a range of colors and finishes as well as decorative options such as borders, mosaics and inlays. Also available in various sizes, such as large-format pieces suitable for flooring and wall installations.

Wall Tile

Ceramic wall tiles are popular in kitchens and bathrooms because it is resistant to moisture, bacteria and odors and scratches. It is also easy to maintain and comes in many patterns and colors. It can be used to create almost any design. Trim pieces borders, borders, and inlays can also be used to emphasize decorative elements.

Ceramic tile is produced from low-fired clays, unlike porcelain that is fired to extreme temperatures. The addition of a fluxing agent -like feldspar- allows the tile to be made at lower temperatures for production which, in turn, saves energy and reduces emissions.

A very popular type of wall tile is the subway tile that can be laid in a pattern of running bond with straight vertical joints or a straight grid pattern. These kinds of tiles are usually made by semi-dry pressing and one firing.

Installing ceramic wall tiles with a thin-set adhesive will yield the best results. Apply the adhesive by using a trowel with a notched edge, according to the instructions of the manufacturer of the tile. While working you can gently rub the back of the tile with your knee or a short block of wood to set it in the adhesive. When all tiles are in place, you can grout. Utilize a professional tile level to ensure a straight grout line before grouting.

Bathroom Tile

Ceramic tile is a well-liked option for flooring and walls in bathrooms. It is resistant to odors, stains and bacteria. Available in a range of colors and designs it can be used to create a variety of styles. Use borders, inlays and mosaics to add visual interest. You can also repeat the same design across your space to create a cohesive appearance.

Ceramic tile is an excellent option for kitchen backsplashes or showers. It is easy to clean and it can withstand repeated exposure to water. This makes it an ideal option for busy families. Its hardness can be an issue in areas frequented by older or younger people who might drop objects and break them against the surface. It's not soft enough 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 from clay mixed with sand or other raw materials which are then fired to form the hard material that makes them tough and versatile. The manufacturing process and the raw materials differ, resulting in different types of ceramic tiles. Some are more porous than others and require a different routine of maintenance. Some are glazed for decorative finishes and colors. It is crucial to know the different differences in porosity, hardness and color before installing ceramic tiles.

Kitchen Tile

Ceramic tile backsplashes are an excellent choice for any kitchen, whether you're building or renovating a new one. Easy to install and customizable, it's a great choice for those who want an affordable and durable material to shield their kitchen walls from moisture and stains.

Available in a wide array of sizes, colors, shapes, and patterns, this timeless material allows you to create an area that reflects your personal style. Choose from the classic charm of subway tiles, the warmth of wood-look ceramics, or the glamor of stone-like imitations. There are also textured options that offer an appealing tactile surface to improve your design aesthetic.

Ceramic is a strong material for floor tiles but it is also susceptible to being damaged by large impacts. It's essential to hire a professional installer finish the installation of your ceramic tile flooring project. They can overcome any unexpected problems during the process to ensure your new floor looks its best.

The toughness of ceramic tile can be a challenge for your feet, back and joints, especially if you sit for prolonged periods of time in your kitchen. Consider putting a cushioned floor on the stove and in the sink to ease this discomfort. Like all tiles ceramic, it may feel cold underfoot during the winter months, and you may be tempted to install radiant heating.