Image credit: Mainzu Ceramica
Tiles are a versatile and economical home improvement solution. They are durable, affordable, easy to clean, to maintain, and are available in a variety of designs, colors, and patterns.
Tiles were initially used for flooring alone but have now spread to walls, kitchen counters, and furniture. But there are certain things that you did not know about tiles.
History
The beautiful pieces of stone and clay were initially used around 1500BC, and the remains can still be found in a few places. This means that tiles, if used wisely, can last for centuries. Concrete tiles are sturdy, easy to maintain, and do not fade when exposed to sunlight, making them ideal for walls and outdoor use. Tiles are recommended for flooring when compared to carpet as it helps to fight dust and allergies. Colors and patterns of tiles not only enhance the look of the property but also add to the capital value of the property.
Wall tiles vs. floor tiles
Many people think that tiles are all the same and can be used for various purposes, which is not necessarily true. There are different types of tiles manufactured to meet multiple purposes.
For example, wall tiles are different from floor tiles, but not many people know the difference between these two types. Tiles exclusively produced for walls cannot bear weight and are lighter and thinner when compared to floor tiles.
The glaze of the wall tile is different from floor tile and cannot resist scratches. Hence wall tiles should be used only on walls and not on floors. However, floor tiles can be used for both walls and floors, and in our case, tables.
Image credit: Mainzu Ceramica
Porcelain tiles vs. ceramic tiles
Many people confuse ceramic and porcelain tiles, often thinking they are the same. Ceramic tiles are produced by firing clay (red or white) in the kiln and are then glazed, which is why they are colorful and have patterns. These tiles can be used both for walls and floors, are easy to cut, and are not frost resistant. They are usually used in less abusive environments such as domestic kitchens, walls, bathroom floors, etc.
On the other hand, porcelain tiles are made with finer and denser clay and are heated at high temperatures in the kiln to make them hard, durable and damage resistant. These can be used for walls, floors and other outdoor areas as they are strong and frost-proof.
Non-slip tiles are a type of tiles that score higher than others on the slip resistance rating. They come usually with an epoxy coating that neither allow water to be absorbed nor to stagnate. These tiles are usually mostly used in bathroom floors and are also found in kitchen floors.
Natural stone tiles
Natural stone tiles are a range of travertine tiles and mosaics. These tiles are incorporated with pieces of limestone, travertine, granite and other stones to make the tile colorful and give the desired pattern. These are quite heavy and have a different procedure for laying.