Tile is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to upgrade your home’s design. But not all tile is created equal.
The materials used, production standards, durability rating and more can make a big difference in the price of your tile. Learn how to recognize high-quality tiles and avoid the low-end stuff.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles are one of the most versatile flooring options available, ranging in colour, texture and design. They’re easy to clean and durable, making them suitable for almost any room in the house. The material is also resistant to moisture and doesn’t absorb odours or bacteria, making it a perfect choice for kitchen and bathroom floors. Additionally, tile floors are a good option for those who want to add underfloor heating because they conduct and store heat well. For more high quality tiles, check this out.
The versatility of ceramic tile means it can be used on walls, floors, countertops and backsplashes. Typically, tiles are rated on a PEI scale from zero to five, with class 1 ideal for areas with very light traffic, such as a guest bath where bare feet are the norm and class 4 suitable for most residential use.
Unlike carpeted floor coverings, ceramic tiles don’t attract dust, dirt, animal hair, dust mites and pollen, reducing allergy concerns for those with asthma or allergies. These floor coverings don’t absorb odours or harbour germs, so they’re an excellent choice for families with children.
Another advantage of ceramic tiles is that they don’t become brittle or discoloured over time and can withstand heavy furniture legs and high heels without leaving unattractive pressure marks. Ceramic tiles are also easy to maintain, as they don’t stain and can be wiped down with a damp cloth or sponge.
Tiles are made from various materials, including clay and natural minerals, making them highly adaptable for different aesthetics. They come in many colours, finishes and textures, and they’re often designed to mimic other types of flooring, such as hardwood or stone.
Several factors, including increased construction in emerging economies and the rapid growth of the building industry, drive the demand for ceramic tiles. The global market for ceramic tiles is expected to continue expanding, with China, India and Brazil among the most significant markets. The primary application areas of the ceramic tiles market are residential replacement, commercial and new residential. For more high quality tiles, check this out.
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile is denser, more durable and less permeable to water than ceramic tiles. These factors make it an excellent option for floors and walls in high-traffic areas, kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor spaces. It can withstand freezing temperatures and splashing water, and its low porosity resists staining and bacteria.
This durable porcelain tile is available in various sizes and surface finishes, offering countless design options for floors and walls. You can find patterned and plain porcelain tiles in many colours and structures, and even textured porcelain tiles resembling other materials like concrete or natural stone. It is possible to use this diverse porcelain floor tile to create a truly unique look that transforms your home into an artistic masterpiece.
What makes porcelain tile different from ceramic tile is that it is much more complicated and sturdier, and it can be made to have the appearance of many other types of material. For instance, porcelain tile can mimic natural stone and even wood grains. It can also be created with various surface textures that emulate leather, fabric and other materials. This versatility makes porcelain tiles an excellent choice for modern and contemporary styles and more traditional looks.
Another advantage of porcelain tile is its more excellent selection of colour and pattern options than its ceramic cousins. The fact that porcelain is much denser and more robust means that it can be manufactured in a broader range of sizes, shapes and colours. This offers homeowners and designers more options for achieving the perfect look.
While porcelain is more diverse in appearance than ceramic, it should be noted that it can be more expensive and heavier than a comparable ceramic tile. The density of porcelain tile can also pose challenges during installation, especially on the home’s upper floors. This is where a professional tile installer should be hired to ensure the home’s structure can handle this added weight.
To ensure that you purchase authentic porcelain tile, ask for a sample before making your final purchase. This will allow you to see how the tile looks in your space and to compare it to similar colours of other flooring and wall tiles. You should also pay attention to the thickness of the porcelain. The thicker the tile, the more likely it is to be authentic.
Onyx Tile
As a natural stone, onyx is coveted for its opulent appearance that brings visual texture to your home. From milky white to black and a range of earth tones in between, onyx tile offers a unique design that can’t be replicated with any other material. For more high quality tiles, check this out.