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.
Stone, slabs obtained by cutting blocks of rocks, available in nature.
Bonding materials, obtained by grinding compounds which have previously been fired. When mixed with water and sand, these products form pastes which set and harden over time.
Composites, coverings obtained from stone fragments dispersed in a cement or polymeric bonding material.
Metals, of little use as materials for floor or wall covering. They can be used for metallized wallpapers.
Polymers or plastics, synthetic organic materials that can be used for making rolls of fabric or tiles.
Vegetable or animal organic materials, obtained from materials directly available in nature.
Materials in different forms
Rolls of materials, requiring quite simple application techniques, and which can also be used by non-professionals.
Materials in plates slabs, and boards, requiring complex laying techniques, and which should be used by expert installers.
Loose materials to be applied on site.
Materials with different mechanical properties
"Hard" materials are particularly resistant to wear and compression; and cannot be deformed.
"Soft" materials are deformable and shock-resistant; they are more vulnerable to risks of wearing. URL: http://www.italiatiles.com/
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