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Choose your tile type
Sunday August 2, 2009
If you want to use tiles to use on your floor and walls then you might like to know more about what type of tiles are best suited for your space.
You can get tiles in a range of different materials such as stone, porcelain, ceramic, glass and slate. Each material works in a different way so depending on the purpose of your space will help determine what tile is best to use.
Porcelain tiles
Porcelain tiles are made dust pressing porcelain clays to produce a smooth and resistant tile. Porcelain tiles have a very low water-absorption rate than other tiles. Glazed porcelain tiles are even more liquid resistant as well as wear resistant and are suitable for spaces that encounter heavy traffic.
Ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles are very durable but not as hard-wearing as porcelain tiles. They are more porous than porcelain tiles and therefore not as resistant to liquid but glazed ceramic tiles are more water resistant. Ceramic tiles are also versatile and can be used on both floors and walls. The other great thing about ceramic tiles is that they are easy to maintain and can be easily cleaned.
Slate tiles
Slate tiles are favoured because they have a natural slip-resistance, making them a great floor tile. However, their attractive aesthetics and versatility make it a great tile to use for both floor and wall surfaces. Because slate is not as porous as some materials but it is still susceptible to stains so it's a good idea to use a sealant to protect it from water and oil. Slate is a fairly durable material and is suitable to high amounts of traffic in domestic spaces such as a kitchen.
Glass tiles
Glass is extremely resilient and has consequently been used for years in all sorts of constructions. Glass tiles are non-porous and are resistant to liquid stains. Because glass tiles are liquid resistant, glass tiles do not decay and can endure many harsh environments - both indoors and outdoors, and in effect can be used for a long time.
Glass never fades or scratches and therefore can be used in any space or room without risk of damage.
Marble tiles
Marble tiles are strong and can be used in both indoor and outdoor environments. While it is not as porous as other materials, to increase marble's durability you may like to consider sealing marble tiles to protect it from stains. Marble tiles should be re-sealed every six to 12 months.
Granite tiles
The presence of quartz in granite gives granite tiles a great level of durability and makes them hard wearing. Granite is less porous than marble, making them more resistant to water and oil stains and suitable for areas that encounter high traffic such as kitchen spaces. However, it's recommended that granite tiles are still sealed to ensure they remain in top condition and increase their life.
With such an assortment of tiles on the market you're sure to find a suitable tile with the durability and versatility you need for your space. If you would like more information about the tiles that are available you can search the tilers.com.au for a myriad of knowledge and resources about the tiles that are available.
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