The answer to
this question really depends on where the tile will be used. Currently, over 80% of tiles used for
flooring are porcelain tiles, while the majority of tiles used for walls,
backsplashes and counter tops are ceramic tiles. Exterior surfaces, like patios, are usually
pavers, or porcelain tiles.
The reasons have
to do with durability in the case of porcelain floor tiles. While price, color, and design choices have a
lot to do with the ceramic tiles selected for walls, backsplashes and counter
tops.
Ceramic tiles
have been around for thousands of years.
This is a testimonial to their durability and versatility. The body of the tile (called the bisque) is
made up of clay and other minerals. When
combined, these raw materials give the bisque its strength and stability.
The quality of
the tile has to do with the quality of the manufacturer, density of the clay,
and breaking strength of the tile.
Porcelain is simply a finer grade of clay and makes a harder tile body.
Porcelain tiles
have a lower water absorption rate than ceramic tiles because porcelain tiles
are very dense. When baked at 1800
degrees, a surface color is created on the porcelain tiles. But when baked at 2200 degrees, the color goes
through the entire body of the tile.
Therefore, if
these get a chipped, it will not show as much as on a tile with only a surface
coloring. Porcelain tiles can be used
outside, even in areas where the temperature gets below freezing. They are considered “frost resistant” (not
freeze proof). This makes porcelain
suitable for patios since the elements will not damage it.
Ceramic and
porcelain tiles are wear rated by the Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI). This system of rating tiles is approved by the
American Society of testing and Materials (ATSM). The ratings are as follows:
PEI 1 = Not hard
enough to walk on. Use on walls only.
PEI 2 = Use on
wall and bathroom floors only. But only
use smaller tiles on the floors. Larger
tiles (6 x 6 or 8 x 8) may crack with prolonged foot traffic.
PEI 3 = Use on
kitchen and bathroom counter tops, walls and floors where foot traffic is not
heavy (okay for residential).
PEI 4 = Can be
used in residential, commercial and light institutions.
PEI 5 = Use in all
residential and/or commercial applications (malls, airports, etc.) This rating means the tiles are very
resistant to chipping or cracking.
Many tiles have
a glaze applied to the surface. Unglazed
tiles have greater slip resistance than glazed tiles and are therefore
recommended for areas subjected to water.
The advantages of glazed tiles are that you get an unlimited color
range, and greater stain resistance.
Unglazed tiles will give you better wear, and added slip resistance.
It is possible
to find tiles that feature abrasive grit on their surface, which substantially
reduces the possibility of slipping.
These tiles are well-suited for public areas and the outdoors. There is another testing process just for the
glaze. This is called the Mohs test, and
it determines the hardness (scratch resistance) of the glaze.
As you can see,
there are many levels of quality, which determine the various levels of
pricing. Generally speaking, you get
what you pay for. However, there’s always the possibility that
you are misinformed about the tile you are buying.
It’s important to
deal with suppliers who will give you the straight story and have your best
interest in mind when suggesting tiles for your home.
Here’s a tip
regarding installation. Make sure the
sub-floor is dry, stable and sturdy before applying floor tiles. If the sub-floor is “spongy” (in the case of
plywood) or damp (in the case of basement concrete slabs) your tiles will
eventually crack.
Installing
ceramic or porcelain tile in your home adds value, and enhances the quality of
your lifestyle. One of the best benefits
for a homeowner is the low cost of maintaining tile floors and walls. Relax and enjoy.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
No comments:
Post a Comment