Porcelain And Ceramic Tile Faqs
When it comes to answering your questions about floor tiles—regardless of whether they are porcelain, ceramic, or another of our popular materials—we are always happy to help. However, we’ve decided to collect some of the most frequently asked questions about our tiles, the grout, and others to help you feel more informed before you make your decision.
WHAT ARE RECTIFIED TILES?
Tiles are considered rectified if their edges were cut at the factory after they have been baked. Usually, tiles have pressed and slightly rounded edges that many people do not use, as they won’t make the flooring look even. Instead, they cut the edges to produce a precise edge and a flat-surfaced perimeter. This is extremely common practice for porcelain tile, but it can also be done on large format ceramic wall tiles. When they cut the tile like this, they can make the measurements very precise. In fact, they can be so close that the grout joint only needs to be about two to three millimeters!
CAN WALL TILES BE USED ON THE FLOOR?
No, we do not recommend this. That’s because the wall tiles have a weaker glaze and body. They are much more likely to wear out or break prematurely because they were not built to withstand the stresses floor tiles can handle. Even if they don’t break entirely, they are much more likely to crack. On the flip side, though, you may absolutely use floor tiles on the walls!
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PORCELAIN AND CERAMIC FLOOR TILES?
Most of the floor tiles available on the market today and made from porcelain. All porcelain tiles are considered to be ceramic, but not all ceramic tiles are porcelain. Most styles these days are only manufactured as porcelain products. These floor tiles are denser and usually have harder glazes than ceramic tiles. While porcelain tiles are being made, the higher temperatures, finer clays, and extra minerals are all used to make them porcelain over ceramic.
WHAT IS A POLISHED AND GLAZED PORCELAIN TILE?
These tiles are made of porcelain, and they are usually very highly polished. A thick glaze is applied to make it feel smooth and polished. These glazes are necessary if you want any sort of design on the tile. Unglazed porcelain, while still usable and able to be highly polished, is not a good canvas for ink designs.
WHAT ABOUT AN UNGLAZED AND POLISHED PORCELAIN TILE?
Unglazed porcelain tiles have rectified edges and are usually highly polished. They are the only through-body porcelain that can be safely and effectively used for commercial traffic. Some are treated with a sealer at the factory where they are made, while others usually have a label that indicates a solvent-based impregnator needs to be applied to the tiles as they are being installed.
WHAT SIZE GROUT JOINT IS A GOOD CHOICE?
While it depends on what sort of tile you are choosing to use, most people don’t want to deal with too much grout to clean. It can be higher maintenance than the tiles themselves. If your tiles are rectified, you may be able to have two the three-millimeter spaces. However, for most floor tiles, you can expect anywhere from three to five millimeters for the joint. It will depend on the calibration of your specific tiles. They won’t be perfectly sized from one the next (unless they have been rectified), so a bigger joint may be necessary in order for the tile to be installed properly.
SHOULD I USE UNSANDED OR SANDED GROUT?
Typically, you will want to use unsanded grout for joints that are an eighth of an inch or less. If they are bigger than that, then you will want to use sanded. However, there are universal grouts available on the market these days that have been made with fine sand particles. These work great for most joints. In fact, they are so fine, they can be used with wall tiles, glass mosaics, and even polished stone tiles without scratching the surface.
IS TILE TOO SLIPPERY FOR EXTERIOR WALKWAYS?
Yes and no. There are some tiles that are perfectly safe for pool decks, exterior entries, and stairs. However, it depends on the tile’s texture. Ask about the slip resistance classification, and always tell Transworld Tile what you intend to use the tile for. We can let you know if the tile you are selecting is slip resistant and safe to use on the floor.
COME TO TRANSWORLD TILE
When it comes to finding the perfect tile for your home, it’s time to contact Transworld Tile. We look forward to showing you everything you need to know to remodel the spaces in your home that need it most. Together, we can help you install a durable, beautiful floor that you will enjoy for years to come. Contact us today to get started with our team.
