The growing popularity of tiles in homes has created a market that is continuing to evolve. Many designers include tiles in major portions of home decor. Builders find tiles provide the aesthetic that increases the value of homes, is durable and easy to clean. The versatility of tiles in size, shape, and color makes them an easy and distinct feature on many homes. When properly installed tiles will last for several years in most homes.
Tiles are made from many different materials. Some natural stone tiles include marble, granite, and slate. The tiles are cut from these stones, sealed, and installed in many locations in the home. Natural stone is very porous and can break if not properly handled and cared for. However, the demand for natural looking tiles has led manufacturers to create many alternatives of stone tiles that look like the natural stone, but are more durable and stain resistant.
Most people who look for tile are quickly overwhelmed by the vast array of materials, styles, designs, and colors that are before them. For an individual who is looking for tiles, it is sometimes helpful to have a general, basic knowledge of the most popular tiles available.
Ceramic tiles are made by combining clay and other products which are crushed to a fine powder, pressed, dried, and fired in a kiln. When a ceramic tile is glazed it is covered with Frit, a glass substance, and re-fired. The glass melts over the tile from the temperature of the kiln. This glass creates the hi-gloss of the glaze and creates a hard and durable finish on the tile. Ceramic tiles are extremely durable and are the tile most often recommended by most professionals.
Porcelain tile is made much the same way, however the primary ingredient in the tile is a finely ground sand. When fired, the sand melts and gives the porcelain the unique look that results. Porcelain tiles look like glass, but are more durable than ceramic tile and have a truer color than many other tiles. When porcelain tiles are being installed they require special equipment. The tiles will chip and are not recommended for high traffic areas.
Combining polyester resin with marble or granite chips results in the Agglomerate tile. This tile is extremely durable and is very popular in high traffic areas such as office buildings. It is also extremely popular when used for counter tops, walls, fireplaces, etc. The tiles made of Agglomerate are sealed to protect the tiles after they are installed.
By combining natural clays quarry tile is turned an earthen red color. There are other colors available which are created using either natural clays or dyes. These tiles are especially popular in entry ways and areas where a natural, earthen feel is desired. The tiles are both water and weather resistant which make them excellent patio tiles in climates that have severe weather part of the year.
Terrazzo is a tile very similar to Agglomerate. It is made in the same way as Agglomerate and used in high traffic areas. Terrazzo has a different color palette than Agglomerate tiles and is stain and water resistant. Terrazzo is an excellent choice when one is creating a floating tile floor because of its durability.
Terracotta or Mexican tiles are handmade and vary in texture, appearance, and color. The tiles are available in many styles, colors and sizes. After being installed the tiles require sealant to protect against water and weather. The tiles are very popular in areas where one wishes an old world charm. They give off a cool temperature in extreme heat which makes them popular in very hot regions.
Mosaic tiles are very popular as decorative additions to a structured piece or when combined to create a back-splash. In The tiles are made from porcelain, glass, natural stone, or ceramic. Mosaics are ideal for enhancing flooring, walls, or rooms.
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