subject: Are Ceramic Tiles Your Best Choice? [print this page] Homeowners have a lot of confusion when it comes to choosing the kinds of tiles for their floors or countertops. Should they opt for ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles or some other natural stone?
Ceramic tiles are a popular product of choice. They are just thin slices of inorganic materials that have been hardened by heat treatments. Following this, the tiles are made more attractive by glazing.
Ceramic tiles are best known for their durability. In fact, experts have found the remains of ceramic tiles in the ruins of ancient Egypt and Rome. Even after more than 2,000 years, these tiles are more or less intact.
Many homes have ceramic tile flooring because of the following reasons:
Ceramic tiles are highly durable. Thus it is easy to use in areas that are very busy and prone to spillage. Kitchens are a great example.
Ceramic tiles are long lasting. If they have been laid properly, these tiles will last for years.
Ceramic tiles are easy to maintain. They are easy to clean and are stain resistant.
Ceramic tiles offer a large variety of choices for the homeowner as these are available in different colors, patterns and sizes. Thus, it is easy to make a statement with these tiles. Since these tiles look beautiful, they are a worthy investment that pays off handsomely when it is time to sell the home.
Some of the important factors to be considered when using ceramic tiles for the floors are as follows:
Ceramic tiles are best installed professionally. Although professional installation costs more, the expense is worth it in terms of durability and beauty.
Ceramic tiles do have a tendency to chip or crack on high impact. Thus, it must be laid in those areas where heavy objects are not placed.
Ceramic surfaces are naturally hard. Thus, they are not very forgiving when things fall on them. Glass and breakable objects may shatter when they fall on ceramic tiles. Similarly, a person may suffer a bad fall if they slip on ceramic surfaces. It must be remembered that ceramic tiles are quite slippery, particularly when they are wet.
Ceramic tiles may not be the best choice for some people as these tiles have a propensity to be cooler than other tiles.
Because of the nature of the stone and its colors, ceramic tiles are best suited for the indoors while porcelain is best for the outdoors. Porcelain has higher density than ceramic due to which it is harder and less water absorbent too. Ceramic tiles may be glazed or not. When glazed, ceramic is highly resistant to water. Thus, glazed ceramic tiles may be used in areas like the bathroom or the kitchen too.
