Are all tiles the same? No, of course. There are ‘tiles’ and… then there are ‘tiles’…
Making an educated selection is paramount for the success of your projects and the peace of mind of the homeowner.
Ceramic tiles have been used since ancient times. They are hardwearing, easy to clean, water resistant, hygienic and pleasant to the eye. There are several different types of tile available in the marketplace and they vary in their technical properties, making and durability. Ceramic tiles sold in the United Kingdom should conform to the British Standard for ceramic tiles, BS EN 14411.
It is essential that you select the most appropriate tile for your projects and we at paolo.interiors will help you do just that. Here’s a brief overview to help you with the first steps in the selection process.
GLAZED TILES
Glazed tiles are the obvious choice for walls in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry areas. Glazed tiles are attractive on conservatory floors and in reception rooms, but may not be suitable for potentially wet, outdoor or heavy traffic floor areas.
UNGLAZED TILES
Generally used in domestic and industrial installations, and available with a slip resistant surface profile for floor tiling in wet areas. They are usually wear, stain and frost resistant, making them ideal for laundry and utility rooms, bathrooms, playrooms and garages.
PORCELAIN TILES
Extremely attractive and very hardwearing tiles that have extremely low water absorbency. Available as wall or floor tiles, sometimes glazed, often with good anti-slip properties, they can be used internally and, providing they are slip resistant, externally. These tiles are suitable for domestic and commercial use, even for high-traffic areas. As they have higher properties and longer durability, the price tends to be higher, too.
QUARRY TILES
Made from natural clay, some quarry tiles are frost resistant and they may be used for floors internally and externally. Their natural clay surface usually provides good slip resistance and they are extremely hard wearing.
TERRACOTTA TILES
These are made from natural clay and vary in water absorbency, but generally they are used for flooring and are unsuitable for exterior use, as they are not frost resistant. Most terracotta tiles need surface sealing before and after installation.
MOSAIC TILES
Small pieces of ceramic, natural stone or glass usually sold in sheets on a mesh-backing or paper-facing for ease of fixing. Some tiles are also available with grooved lines to reproduce the overall look and feel of mosaic tiles.
NATURAL STONE TILES
Natural stone tiles include limestone, marble, granite, slate, travertine, quartzite and sandstone. Whilst some natural stone tiles are extremely hard wearing, the performance of these materials does vary. We at paolo.interiors will be able to provide you guidance on their suitability for your project, based on their physico-mechanical properties. Some natural tiles may require the use of adhesives and grouts specifically designed for the installation of natural stone tiles. Natural tiles are to be sealed before grouting. Again, we are happy to make recommendations in terms of brand, maker and type of adhesive, sealants and cleaning products.
So, whether you are looking for marble, limestone, sandstone or any type of tiles, do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help you make an educated decision and select the best possible tiles for your projects. Your project is our project.
