Friday, November 13, 2015

What Consumers Should Know About Ceramic Tile

By Mattie Knight


Choosing the right construction material for any home improvement project is challenging. Tile is suitable for a variety of projects. If you live in San Francisco, CA and you are installing a new floor, shower, or countertop, ceramic tile offers multiple benefits when it comes to installation, durability, and maintenance.

Clay, water, and various minerals are mixed together to produce ceramic. The material must be fired at very high temperatures to make it suitable for use in construction. Glazed tiles are exposed to heat a second time after application of a liquid glass material. Glazing produces a durable surface that resists stains and scratches.

This type of tile offers an attractive finish that is less expensive than natural stone such as granite or marble. It works well in hallways, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. This material is lighter than stone, so it may be used in second floor rooms without worrying if there is ample support. If you have a pet or small children, ceramic is a good option because it is easy to maintain.

Choosing the right grout and proper installation are necessary to avoid any problems caused by moisture and humidity. Unlike the tile itself, grout is porous and can absorb liquids easily. Some liquids can cause grout discoloration if left to sit. Using smaller tiles with thinner grout lines between them can prevent the growth of mildew or mold.

When you buy materials for your project, you should always purchase more tiles than you actually need. This will come in handy in the future if you ever need to replace cracked, chipped, or broken tiles. You can easily replace a single tile saving the expense of installing a new floor. Some tile manufactures can make matching tiles, but the process is expensive.

These tiles will contract and expand with changes in pressure and temperature. Installing the grout properly will prevent these fluctuations from damaging the tiles. Using a water resistant adhesive, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, will ensure the tiles stay firmly in place.

Using these tiles for kitchen countertops is suitable because they are resistant to stains and heat. One thing to consider is the uneven surface, which can be bothersome for some people when preparing meals. The grout can be a problem because it can be difficult to remove food particles from the crevices. Acrylic and epoxy grout are the best options because they are more resistant to stains than other types of grout. You will also have to avoid aggressive scrubbing as that can dull a glossy finish over time.

Use a cleaning agent that matches the manufacturer's recommendations. This is especially important if your floor tiles are treated to resist slipping. Detergents containing oil or cleansers made with wax can cause deterioration of the non-slip coating. Failing to maintain ceramic regularly will cause a build-up of debris and grease, which makes them slippery.

You cannot go wrong with tiles made of ceramic for creative interior design to match any size budget. There are endless ways to mix colors and styles to add personality to any room in the house. With proper installation your renovation or new construction project will endure for years to come.




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