Tile

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is a natural product made up of clay, a number of other naturally-occurring minerals and water. Ceramic tile comes in both glazed and unglazed tiles. Glazed ceramic tile has a ceramic coating applied to the tile body which gives the tile its color and finish.

Some characteristics of glazed ceramic tile are:

• Durable – a properly installed ceramic tile will outperform and outlast nearly any other floor covering product created for the same application.
• Easy care – glazed ceramic tile resists stains, odors, and dirt and can be cleaned up with a damp mop or sponge or common household cleaners such as Mr. Clean, Top Job or Spic and Span.
• Scratch resistant – Grade III and Grade IV glazed ceramic tiles are extremely resistant to scratching and you never have to worry about a cut or tear like you do with some other types of floors.
• Environmentally friendly – ceramic tile is manufactured using natural materials and does not retain odors, allergens, or bacteria.
• Beautiful and Versatile – modern ceramic manufacturing technology has created virtually an unlimited number of colors, sizes, styles, shapes, and textures that will add rich beauty and character to any room decor.
• Fire Resistant – ceramic tile doesn’t burn nor emit toxic fumes. A lighted cigarette, when dropped on the floor, even if allowed to sit, will not do any damage to ceramic tile. Even hot kitchen pans or skillets will not scorch or melt the surface of glazed ceramic tile.
• Water Resistant – most glazed ceramic tile has a dense body that permits little or no accumulation of moisture. This means spills from common liquids found in a kitchen are not a big concern.

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Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tiles are growing in popularity with homeowners and interior designers. They are more dense and less porous than glazed ceramic tile. Plus, porcelain tiles are highly resistant to moisture, stains, bacteria, odors and even harsh cleaners. For homeowners, porcelain tile is especially resistant to staining, scratches, fading and is available in both polished and matte finishes. They are available in a variety of sizes, colors and textures.

Porcelain tiles come in either a glazed porcelain or a through-body porcelain tile. Through-body porcelain tiles have the same colors all the way through from front to the back of the tile. If they are chipped or scratched the color will not change. Glazed porcelain tiles are similar to glazed ceramic tiles. They have a design layer (glaze) on top of the tile body that is a different color and will be noticeable if chipped.

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Travertine Tile

Travertine tile has a natural rich beauty that has been adored and used as a building material since the Roman Empire. The beautiful, natural stone tiles have unique veining and a subtle blend of beige color variations caused by the sedimentary rocks, minerals and limestone deposits that crystallize over hundreds of years. These tiles are characterized by their irregular edges and surfaces.

Travertine tiles can be used on both the floor and wall in both indoor and exterior applications. They come in filled (pores and holes filled) and unfilled stone tiles, as well as polished or tumbled tiles. Each tile is unique in both color variations and in overall surface appearance and veining. Tumbling the travertine tiles gives the tiles a more rounded, time-worn or ancient appearance.

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