Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is a gorgeous solution that works well throughout many rooms of the home. This material made from clay and shale is highly versatile, beautiful, and durable. The materials of ceramic tile are baked and then hardened in a kiln, much like pottery. If the tile is created using the old process known as "Bicottura", then it goes through a double firing. However, if the tile is created in a more modern process called "Monocottura", this means the tile is baked and glazed in one firing.

Monocottura Advantages

Some of the advantages to Monocottura are that the ceramic tile is more affordable, it is more durable, dense, and the glaze comes out harder. Depending on the manufacturer, the clay's natural color may be changed with pigmentation and then fired. Below are some of the types of ceramic tile, as well as the durability level.

Quarry

This type of ceramic tile is unglazed and highly durable.

Glazed

Obviously, the tile is glazed and rated as being moderately durable.

Porcelain

You can purchase glazed or unglazed tile, depending on personal preference. This type of tile is extremely durable and hard, making it ideal for indoor and outdoor use.

Terracotta

Finally, this type of tile is unglazed and unfortunately, rated as fragile. For this reason, terracotta must be sealed so the surface is stronger and more durable.

Glazed

With glazed tiles, the surface of the ceramic tile has a beautiful design and color. Additionally, the glaze makes the surface far easier to clean and maintain. Glazed tile also features a shiny surface. However, this tile can be made in satin or matte finishes, which are not as dramatic. A huge benefit to glazed ceramic tile is that the glaze acts as a protective barrier, making the tile less prone to stains. You will also find you have many more options for colors by going with glazed tile. Interestingly, darker glazes are stronger than light colored glazes.

Unglazed

Now, for the unglazed ceramic tiles, pigmentation is not usually added, although it can be. That means the color of the tile actually comes from the tile's own composition in most cases. One of the greatest advantages to choosing unglazed tile is that it can handle daily wear and tear better. In addition, while glazed tiles tend to be slippery, unglazed tiles offer a more non-slip surface.

If ceramic tile is installed the right way, it will last for 30 years or more. Again, this type of tile is easy to maintain and today, you can choose from a huge selection of colors, patterns, styles, sizes, and so on, allowing you to customize the look of your home. You will also find people love ceramic tile because it stands up well to high traffic, which is why many times it is used for foyer or entryway flooring.

Tile Uses

With such versatility, ceramic tile is used throughout the home. Commonly a favorite material used in foyers, entryways, and dining rooms, we are now seeing this becoming more popular for bedrooms, family rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. Remember, ceramic tile is very durable and strong but in addition, this material is beautiful, which can be colored or created in many unique designs and patterns.

Ceramic History

Historians tell us that ceramic tile, which is made from clay and shale, dates back to the days of Egyptian pharaohs. As you can imagine, technology has improved ceramic tile, making it even better. For instance, you can now make your decision based on the wear rating, which was established by the Porcelain Enamel Institute or PEI, which is shown below:

Group I

Group I is used primarily in bathrooms or where slippers or bare feet walk.

Group II

Group II is good for high traffic areas, excluding kitchens and foyers/entryways.

Grouop III

Group III is great for any room of the home, as well as light commercial.

Group IV

Group IV is outstanding for all high traffic areas, both residential and commercial.

Moisture

A common concern when it comes to choosing flooring is how well or poorly the material will handle moisture. Ceramic tile is a great solution in that it can accommodate moisture quite well. You will have a choice of glazed and unglazed tile but if you plan to have it installed in the kitchen or bathroom, rooms with moisture, we suggest you stick with glazed since it is non-porous.

Design

Obviously, when choosing ceramic tile, you want to make sure you choose size, shape, color, texture, and pattern that works for your home. With so many incredible options, you will have a number of choices. The only thing is that ceramic is a very hard material. For that reason, it is recommend you avoid putting it in rooms where children play in that anything dropped would break and if the child were to fall, he or she could be harmed.

Durability

Of all materials used for flooring, ceramic tile is by far the most durable. The keys here however are to choose quality, have the tile installed by a professional, and care for it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. The long life expectancy of ceramic tile is one thing that makes it a great flooring solution. After all, we all live busy lives so finding something that is guaranteed to last between 20 and 30 years is a great deal.