[ Technology Info& News ] Why choose the tiles?
How to combine techniques, style and aesthetic qualities
Choosing between the variety of materials used for wall and floor coverings is not easy. Designers and internal decorators, architects and consumers looking for residential solutions as much in line with the latest fashion trends as with ecological guidelines, are surrounded by an enormous range of technical and aesthetic offers.
A solution? A classification of finishing materials which helps to better understand not only the aesthetic aspects, but also performance and practicability.
...More...[ Technology Info& News ] Alternatives to tiles
Floor and wall covering materials can be classified according to specific criteria. A first criterion is based on the "nature" of the materials, corresponding to different technical and aesthetic characteristics. The shape, which is the second selection criterion, strongly influences the laying and application of the materials. Finally, structure and composition influence the materials' performance and behaviour.
Different kinds of materials
Ceramic materials, obtained from a mixture of clays, sands and other natural materials, which are dried and fired at high temperatures....More... [ Technology Info& News ] The manufacturing process
Ceramic tiles are the result of a manufacturing process involving various phases, which change according to the different types of product, glazed or unglazed, to be produced.
Raw materials - Body
The bodies for the manufacturing of ceramic tiles are mixtures of different raw materials, including:...More... [ Technology Info& News ] About ceramic tiles
About Ceramic TileThis type of flooring is available in sizes anywhere from one square inch to eighteen square inches. The very small, one square inch size is great for very high traffic and moisture prone areas, like swimming pools. The largest tiles aren¡¯t the best choice for high traffic areas, but they are very popular for creating a vast, open feel. Ceramic tile is also available in a huge variety of designs, textures, and colors. Ceramic tile is the most waterproof of all tile types. Ceramic tiles are thin and dense, and can be glazed, matte, embossed, textured, and anti slip.
Why Tile?Tile has a very nice hand crafted look, and is easy to care for. Tile is good for high traffic areas, especially entry ways. Tile can be laid in different patterns, allowing limitless creativity.
How is It Made?Ceramic tile is made from clay, and/or other minerals, and material is fired in a kiln. Then clay tiles are treated in one of two ways: glazed or unglazed. Glazed tile has color added to it after firing, and allows for brighter colors, and increased stain resistance. These tiles are usually used on walls and countertops, because they have a very slick and glassy surface. Unglazed tiles are sometimes referred to as quarry tiles. The pigment and color in these tiles is natural, and these tiles must be sealed for stain resistance.
When you visit a local home store or flooring store or outlet, you will see that there are endless possibilities when you choose ceramic tile. You can get ceramic tiles in nearly any color you desire, even designs that look just like natural stone!
[ Technology Info& News ] Why All The Confusion Over Surface Types?
Why does this happen?
In some cases it is just because one stone type looks like another, but very different type. A good example is that many polished granites look like and are referred to as marble. A quick test is a drop of swimming pool (muriatic) acid to the underside of the stone. Limestone and marble will fizz, granite will not. See acid sensitivity link below.
Another issue is that each year, manufacturers have become increasingly better at producing products that look like something else. There are many more choices of color, texture, style, density, patterns, etc. Some clay products look like traditional concrete products (i.e. pavers). Some concrete products look like traditional clay products (i.e. concrete mexican tile). Some ceramic tile look like slate (i.e. "stone look" tile). ...More... [ Technology Info& News ] How to install ceramic tile flooring
One thing to think about when looking to install ceramic tiles as flooring is that you will be changing physical makeup of your interior or exterior. This means that certain preparatory steps need to be taken to ensure your success when you install ceramic tile. Overall, it is important to prepare the room or outdoor area for the installation. It is also important to see to your batch of ceramic tiles for any damage or other warranty-related issues. It is important to make sure that any physical obstacles are
removed, and that any issues in general are resolved before your start laying ceramic tiles in your chosen location. Here are a few things to think about before you¡¯re ready to install ceramic tiles.
Preparation: ...More... [ Technology Info& News ] How To Install Ceramic Tile
If this project is a wall & floor installation always start with the floor.
1. On bad concrete, smooth with concrete filler or similar compound.
2. On old concrete, clean and remove old dirt, a degreaser is recommended.
3. On vinyl floor, remove vinyl flooring and adhesives. ...More... [ Technology Info& News ] Choosing A Tile Grout Mortar
Tile Grout Selection
The color of your tile grout can make or break the look of a finished floor. Here are some tips to aid you in your selection:
......More... [ Technology Info& News ] Choosing A Ceramic Tile - Walls & Floors
Ceramic Tile Selection
Selecting the proper type of ceramic tile for your project is probably the most important installation decision you will make. Here are some tips to help you in your purchase:
Ask for consistently sized tiles. Ceramic tile is fired in a kiln and then cooled at varying degrees of temperature and humidity. This expansion and contraction can cause the tiles to vary in size, sometimes by a 1/4" or more. Most ceramic tiles on the market will have some variation in size but accept nothing more than an 1/8" margin of difference. ...More... [ Technology Info& News ] Installing Tile Over Vinyl, Wood, & Concrete
Installing Tile Directly To Wood Surfaces
Chip board, cushioned vinyl flooring, particle boards of any type, luan plywood, OSB (Oriented Strand Board), tongue & groove planking, and hardwood floors are unsuitable substrates to directly install ceramic tile over.
Although it can be done successfully, many experts believe that ceramic tile installed directly to plywood surfaces should be avoided whenever possible. Plywood has a smooth surface and tends to swell, warp, and delaminate when it is exposed to moisture. Install at your own risk....More...
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