Square, rectangular, hexagonal, matte, glossy … There is no more versatile material for the floor than tiles. They are also known for high durability, easy maintenance and installation, and are a common choice for floor and wall coverings, whether wet or not. Here are the 10 most common questions and answers about ceramic tiles!
1. What is the difference between ceramics and porcelain?
The fundamental difference between ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles is in the technology behind their production.
Porcelain is the result of a more controlled production process than ordinary ceramics. Porcelain is created by mixing porcelain and various minerals burned at more than 1200 degrees Celsius, making it more homogeneous, denser, glassy and more resistant than classical ceramics. It is also less porous, so it has a very low water absorption index, making it both more durable and suitable for large traffic locations such as airports or shopping malls. Porcelain glazes are also known for a wider range of colours, rich and unique appearance.
Ceramics, on the other hand, consist of a mixture of clay and minerals. Due to minor variations and irregularities, more interesting aesthetic results can occur.
2. What are all types of finishes available?
The finish refers to the upper surface of the tile and can be polished, glossy, satin, matte or natural.
3. Is ceramic tile a durable material?
Yes, but it largely depends on the way the tile is laid as well as the material the tile will be laid on. To optimize durability, the floor or substrate to which the tile will be glued must be flat, stable and free of irregularities. Depending on the dimensions of each tile, a suitable glue must be used. For larger pieces, the manufacturers recommend double gluing: the floor and the back of the tiles. In general, it is best to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. What is a rectified tile?
The rectified tile is first fired and then cut into similar pieces. The edges are mechanically finished to get a precise dimension and edges. Rectified tiles are the same size and therefore easier to work with. These tiles are mechanically finished on all sides. They are generally made from a mixture of high-pressure marble and granite powder.
These tiles are more expensive because the cost of cutting to the desired size is also added. The cost of laying these tiles is also higher as it requires more time, care and a better-prepared substrate.
There are primarily two reasons for you to use rectified tile: if you want to use a larger tile size (i.e., greater than 15″ or 16″ in any direction) and minimal grout lines. The very thin grout line makes for an almost-seamless look (especially if you choose a grout colour that closely matches the colour of your tile).
5. How can I calculate how many tiles I need?
First, you need to know the size of the space. Also, plan to buy a larger amount of tiles than you need, due to breakages and cutouts. Generally, add 5 to 7% more tiles if the space you’re planning to lay tiles on is in a simple shape (in the shape of a square or rectangle with several cuts). If, on the other hand, the space is diagonal or if it has an organic shape, you will have to cut a lot of tiles at the corners. In these scenarios, it is important to provide a surplus of up to 15% to avoid material shortages during installation.
6. Can floor tiles be placed on walls? Or wall tiles on the floor?
In most cases, wall tiles aren’t appropriate for the floor, for a variety of reasons. They may be more slippery or less water-resistant than a floor tile needs to be. Although most wall tiles can’t be used on the floor, most floor tiles can be used on the wall, as long as the wall can bear the weight of the tile. It is best to seek a recommendation from a master or product manufacturer.
7. Can I place tiles on existing tiles?
Usually, yes, but only if the surface below is placed correctly and is not broken. But this is generally not the smartest option, as you may have higher costs later. Keep in mind that the height of the room will be slightly reduced and you will have to change how the door open.
8. Are ceramic tiles non-slip?
To know whether a tile is anti-slip or not, it is important to know its coefficient of dynamic friction, which is the slip resistance index. The anti-slip factor is very important for floor tiles. It is denoted by the letter R. The higher this factor, the “rougher” and more slip-resistant the tile is.
9. How to cut and drill through the tiles?
For straight cuts, a special tool is usually used which creates a clean cut and a good finish when cutting tiles. For other details or smaller cuts, a disc saw can be used. If you need to create a hole in your tile, hire a pro in order to prevent cracking through the entire tile.
10. Can the tiles be painted?
Yes, but not with just any paint. In the case of waterproof and smooth surfaces, the paint should be highly adhesive and the manufacturers recommend epoxy paint. It is also necessary to prepare a quality substrate, sitting on the instructions on the product packaging.
Need more help choosing tiles for your new tile installation or you have a question about your project? Give us a call at 0224584524 or fill out a form below and one of our experienced tilers will get back to you shortly.
Square, rectangular, hexagonal, matte, glossy … There is no more versatile material for the floor than tiles. They are also known for high durability, easy maintenance and installation, and are a common choice for floor and wall coverings, whether wet or not. Here are the 10 most common questions and answers about ceramic tiles!
1. What is the difference between ceramics and porcelain?
The fundamental difference between ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles is in the technology behind their production.
Porcelain is the result of a more controlled production process than ordinary ceramics. Porcelain is created by mixing porcelain and various minerals burned at more than 1200 degrees Celsius, making it more homogeneous, denser, glassy and more resistant than classical ceramics. It is also less porous, so it has a very low water absorption index, making it both more durable and suitable for large traffic locations such as airports or shopping malls. Porcelain glazes are also known for a wider range of colours, rich and unique appearance.
Ceramics, on the other hand, consist of a mixture of clay and minerals. Due to minor variations and irregularities, more interesting aesthetic results can occur.
2. What are all types of finishes available?
The finish refers to the upper surface of the tile and can be polished, glossy, satin, matte or natural.
3. Is ceramic tile a durable material?
Yes, but it largely depends on the way the tile is laid as well as the material the tile will be laid on. To optimize durability, the floor or substrate to which the tile will be glued must be flat, stable and free of irregularities. Depending on the dimensions of each tile, a suitable glue must be used. For larger pieces, the manufacturers recommend double gluing: the floor and the back of the tiles. In general, it is best to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. What is a rectified tile?
The rectified tile is first fired and then cut into similar pieces. The edges are mechanically finished to get a precise dimension and edges. Rectified tiles are the same size and therefore easier to work with. These tiles are mechanically finished on all sides. They are generally made from a mixture of high-pressure marble and granite powder.
These tiles are more expensive because the cost of cutting to the desired size is also added. The cost of laying these tiles is also higher as it requires more time, care and a better-prepared substrate.
There are primarily two reasons for you to use rectified tile: if you want to use a larger tile size (i.e., greater than 15″ or 16″ in any direction) and minimal grout lines. The very thin grout line makes for an almost-seamless look (especially if you choose a grout colour that closely matches the colour of your tile).
5. How can I calculate how many tiles I need?
First, you need to know the size of the space. Also, plan to buy a larger amount of tiles than you need, due to breakages and cutouts. Generally, add 5 to 7% more tiles if the space you’re planning to lay tiles on is in a simple shape (in the shape of a square or rectangle with several cuts). If, on the other hand, the space is diagonal or if it has an organic shape, you will have to cut a lot of tiles at the corners. In these scenarios, it is important to provide a surplus of up to 15% to avoid material shortages during installation.
6. Can floor tiles be placed on walls? Or wall tiles on the floor?
In most cases, wall tiles aren’t appropriate for the floor, for a variety of reasons. They may be more slippery or less water-resistant than a floor tile needs to be. Although most wall tiles can’t be used on the floor, most floor tiles can be used on the wall, as long as the wall can bear the weight of the tile. It is best to seek a recommendation from a master or product manufacturer.
7. Can I place tiles on existing tiles?
Usually, yes, but only if the surface below is placed correctly and is not broken. But this is generally not the smartest option, as you may have higher costs later. Keep in mind that the height of the room will be slightly reduced and you will have to change how the door open.
8. Are ceramic tiles non-slip?
To know whether a tile is anti-slip or not, it is important to know its coefficient of dynamic friction, which is the slip resistance index. The anti-slip factor is very important for floor tiles. It is denoted by the letter R. The higher this factor, the “rougher” and more slip-resistant the tile is.
9. How to cut and drill through the tiles?
For straight cuts, a special tool is usually used which creates a clean cut and a good finish when cutting tiles. For other details or smaller cuts, a disc saw can be used. If you need to create a hole in your tile, hire a pro in order to prevent cracking through the entire tile.
10. Can the tiles be painted?
Yes, but not with just any paint. In the case of waterproof and smooth surfaces, the paint should be highly adhesive and the manufacturers recommend epoxy paint. It is also necessary to prepare a quality substrate, sitting on the instructions on the product packaging.
Need more help choosing tiles for your new tile installation or you have a question about your project? Give us a call at 0224584524 or fill out a form below and one of our experienced tilers will get back to you shortly.