When someone wants to redo their floors with tile, there is no shortage of choices to select from. To name just a few of the tile varieties you can find on the market today: Natural stones, ceramic, quartz, different types of metal, glass panels, cement, terra cotta, and even cement and brick. Each material varies in cost and advantages. How can you know which one is the right choice for your kitchen or bathroom?
There are both porcelain and non-porcelain types of ceramic tiles. Most of the non-porcelain varieties are made primarily with some type of clay. As for the porcelain types, they are often made from various minerals, as well as powdered crystal, such as gypsum. Aside from choosing porcelain or non-porcelain, the buyer will need to decide if they want a glaze on the tile, a finish that will help the tile resist damage, stains and moisture and provide better friction for walking.
For those looking for an affordable and simple option, non-porcelain will probably be what catches their eye. However, despite the higher cost and slightly more challenging installation, porcelain tiles naturally offer better durability. Regardless of which option someone goes for, there are numerous color options, shapes, patterns and textures to choose from. Don't be afraid to get creative when redoing a floor.
Natural stone is cut to the proper size and finished with natural materials in order to create stone tiles. These tile can be made from a wide range of stone types, and there are still more varieties within each type. Granite, limestone and marble are the most commonly found, amongst several others. Depending on where the stones were quarried, there may be differences in color, density and brittleness, due to a unique mineral makeup. Granite tends to be the most popular option for high-traffic areas due to its durability against damage and scratches.
A more porous stone type is marble. While the color options and beautiful finishes can make them a very appealing option, they can be very vulnerable to water due to their porous nature. If you use them in a wetter area, do ensure they are properly sealed with regularity. Limestone makes for a natural, earthy look, but be aware that it is a softer stone that can be scratched with relative ease. Travertine is another limestone type that shares many of its qualities, as well as affording a crystal-like look and feel. For higher-traffic floors, slate is a good alternative to granite that comes in dark tones.
Stone tile finishing typically comes in honed, natural or polished finishes. Honed surfaces are matte and smooth in appearance. It prevents wear and slipping and is a perfect choice for busy walkways. Natural finishes have a dull earthy appearance. Depending on preference, the finish preserves as much of the natural stone characteristics as desired. Lastly, polished surfaces have a mirror like, highly reflective, and slippery to walk on finish.
There are both porcelain and non-porcelain types of ceramic tiles. Most of the non-porcelain varieties are made primarily with some type of clay. As for the porcelain types, they are often made from various minerals, as well as powdered crystal, such as gypsum. Aside from choosing porcelain or non-porcelain, the buyer will need to decide if they want a glaze on the tile, a finish that will help the tile resist damage, stains and moisture and provide better friction for walking.
For those looking for an affordable and simple option, non-porcelain will probably be what catches their eye. However, despite the higher cost and slightly more challenging installation, porcelain tiles naturally offer better durability. Regardless of which option someone goes for, there are numerous color options, shapes, patterns and textures to choose from. Don't be afraid to get creative when redoing a floor.
Natural stone is cut to the proper size and finished with natural materials in order to create stone tiles. These tile can be made from a wide range of stone types, and there are still more varieties within each type. Granite, limestone and marble are the most commonly found, amongst several others. Depending on where the stones were quarried, there may be differences in color, density and brittleness, due to a unique mineral makeup. Granite tends to be the most popular option for high-traffic areas due to its durability against damage and scratches.
A more porous stone type is marble. While the color options and beautiful finishes can make them a very appealing option, they can be very vulnerable to water due to their porous nature. If you use them in a wetter area, do ensure they are properly sealed with regularity. Limestone makes for a natural, earthy look, but be aware that it is a softer stone that can be scratched with relative ease. Travertine is another limestone type that shares many of its qualities, as well as affording a crystal-like look and feel. For higher-traffic floors, slate is a good alternative to granite that comes in dark tones.
Stone tile finishing typically comes in honed, natural or polished finishes. Honed surfaces are matte and smooth in appearance. It prevents wear and slipping and is a perfect choice for busy walkways. Natural finishes have a dull earthy appearance. Depending on preference, the finish preserves as much of the natural stone characteristics as desired. Lastly, polished surfaces have a mirror like, highly reflective, and slippery to walk on finish.
About the Author:
A good tile can only look as good as the grout around it. If that grout isn't in top shape, the entire floor won't look as good as it could. Don't hesitate to give The Grout Medic a call for tile and grout repair in Denver.
No comments:
Post a Comment