Types Of Tile

Question 1

Ceramic Tile

Answer 1

Thin slabs of clay or other inorganic materials, hardened by oven firing and usually coated with some kind of glaze

Question 2

Ceramic vs Porcelain

Answer 2

In general, porcelain tile is harder than ceramic and offers greater design flexibility. Both are made from clay and other naturally occurring materials fired in a kiln, clay used to make porcelain tile is more refined and purified.

Question 3

Porcelain Tile

Answer 3

made from very dense clay that’s fired at higher temperatures than standard ceramic tile flooring is. Porcelain tile is made from clay, and other natural materials blended together and fired in a kiln. It’s known for being highly uniform in construction and non-porous. Generally, porcelain tile comes in the same thicknesses as ceramic tile, but it’s heavier overall. It is also offered in more shapes and styles than ceramic tile is, which is why some people decide to go with the product.

Question 4

Mosaic Tile

Answer 4

A picture or design made from small pieces of colored tile, glass, marble, pebbles or other materials. Mosaic 2x2 size comes in a 12x12 sheet. Great for introducing detail on feature walls and backsplash.

Question 5

Cement Tile

Answer 5

Made from cement, pressed then left to cure (rather than fired in a kiln like ceramic) Handmade colorful cement tiles are widely referred to as “Encaustic Tile”

• Porous and need to be sealed
• Great for adding character (Casablanca mix is an iconic example of this style)

Question 6

Natural Stone Tiles

Answer 6

Quarried stone, marble, slate, travertine, and quartz.

• Expensive
• Luxury Item
• Best choice for durability with proper care

(Advances in technology have produced man-made tiles that can accurately replicate the look of natural stone without the added cost of hassle)

Question 7

Terracotta Tiles

Answer 7

“Baked Earth” in Latin. Made by shaping special clay into a mould then firing it in a kiln (or drying naturally in the sun)

• Extremely Porous, unless glazed
• Liable to stain or cracks
• Creates a warm look, rustic style

(*option: invest in man-made terracotta effect tiles give you the same weathered look, but far easier to maintain)

Question 8

Glass Tile

Answer 8

• Waterproof
• Perfect for shower walls, kitchen backsplash, or bathroom wall features.
• Easy to clean
• Low Maintenance

Question 9

Soft Bisque Tile

Answer 9

• Low fire
• Very thin and breakable
• Good for walls, would not recommend for flooring