Tile Materials Guide: Selecting the Best Option for Your Space
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are crafted primarily from red or white clay that is blended with minerals and water, then kiln-fired. This process results in a porous tile, which is generally sealed with a glaze that not only protects the tile but also adds color, design, and texture. Ceramic tiles are ideal for indoor areas with light to moderate foot traffic. However, they are more prone to wear, chipping, and cracking compared to other types.
Porcelain Tiles
Composed of finely ground sand and high-quality clays, porcelain tiles are fired at temperatures significantly higher than ceramic tiles. This results in a denser, more durable tile with a glass-like finish. With a low water absorption rate of 0.5%, porcelain tiles are less porous and more robust, making them perfect for both light and heavy traffic areas. Porcelain tiles may be glazed to enhance durability, though this is not always necessary.
Tile Finishes Explained: Enhancing Your Home with the Right Tile
Gloss Finish
Gloss finish tiles boast a shiny, reflective surface that adds a contemporary touch to any room. Ideal for indoor use, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens, gloss tiles are easy to clean and highly resistant to stains. However, they are not suitable for outdoor environments due to their slipperiness when wet.
Matt Finish
With a coarse, light-absorbing surface, matt finish tiles offer a more rustic or timeless appearance. These tiles are versatile, suitable for indoor living spaces, hallways, and even outdoor settings due to their slip resistance.
Lappato Finish
A unique blend of matt and polished finishes, lappato finish tiles feature a softly polished surface with areas of sheen, achieved by shortening the polishing process. This semi-polished look is less reflective than fully polished tiles but still provides a subtle luster that is popular for both floor and wall applications.
Polished Finish
Polished tiles are typically made from stone or porcelain and are treated with a polishing wheel to achieve a high sheen. This elegant finish adds a luxurious feel to any space but can be more slippery than other finishes.
Honed Finish
Honed tiles offer a smooth surface that is not shiny, providing a more understated and natural look. This finish is ideal for areas where a non-slip surface is important, yet you desire a refined appearance.
Satin Finish
Satin finish tiles have a soft sheen that is less glossy than a full gloss finish, offering a middle ground between matte and gloss. This finish provides a sophisticated touch to any room and is less prone to showing smudges and water marks.
Baby Face Finish
Baby face finish tiles have a delicate and smooth surface, providing a gentle aesthetic that mimics the softness of an infant's skin. This finish is often sought after for spaces seeking a tender and refined ambiance.
Surface Tec Finish
Tiles with a Surface Tec finish are celebrated for their superior durability and cutting-edge surface technology that provides exceptional resistance to stains and scratches. This makes them perfectly suited for areas that experience heavy foot traffic or for use in commercial settings.
Grip Finish
Also referred to as anti-slip or non-slip tiles, Grip finish tiles are engineered to prevent slips and falls, boosting safety in both residential and commercial areas. These tiles are vital for locations that are often wet or prone to spills, including bathrooms, kitchens, outdoor areas, and commercial spaces like restaurants, hospitals, and public entryways.