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CERAMIC
Ceramic tile is made from clay or other nonmetallic minerals and fired or baked above red heat- at least 1800 degrees F. Terra-cotta, stone, and cement body tiles are not really ceramic. However, all are often used in the same places and all are basically installed in the same way. Ceramic tile is most often made in a 12 in. x 12 in. size, but a large variety of smaller and larger sizes are available to allow for infinite pattern design combinations. Ceramic is ideal for heavy traffic areas where liquids stains or sharp objects may attack the floor. It is installed by gluing to the floor with special adhesives. Sometimes you can start with your existing floor but it is best to install a cement backerboard first. After the tile is adhered to the subfloor, grout is applied to fill the spaces between the tiles.
Types of Tile
Unglazed tile: No protective finish on top.
Quarry tile: Unglazed tile manufactured from clay or shale by extrusion.
Porcelain tile: Dense, impervious, fine-grained, and smooth. Made from fine-textured clay. The color can permeate the tile.
Terra Cotta tile: Made of red clay. Mosaic tile: Small tile patterns that are prefabricated onto a mesh backing.
Product Features and Benefits
Durable under all conditions of people traffic, fixtures, and furniture. Yet, tile can be damaged. Cracked tiles can be replaced relatively easily.
Resists abrasion and scuffing by heavy and sharp objects. However, ceramic tile is not scratch proof.
Non-porous glazed surface is ideal for kitchen and bathrooms. There are practically unlimited designs, sizes, and color options. Ceramic increases the value of your home.
Maintenance is easy. Routine broom sweeping or a pass with a vacuum removes dirt and grit that might scratch the tile. Wipe up spills immediately. Some grouts stain easily and should be sealed to maintain the new look. Ask for more details on cleaning your particular ceramic floor.
Ceramic tile is the authentic hardsurface floor. Vinyl and wood laminates are often designed to create the ceramic look. Ceramic is a very durable and long lasting floor but it is also the most expensive.
Many ceramic jobs are easy enough to do yourself. Complicated jobs with extensive site preparations or intricate patterns are better suited for a professional installer. Subfloor is an important element in hard surface installation of vinyl, ceramic, hardwood, and wood laminates. Imperfections in the substrate can telegraph through to the new floor and result in unsightly bumps and ridges. Most installations require subfloor or floor preparation. The more you spend on subfloor and preparation the better the finished job will look.
Better deals
Our pricing is competitive with HOME DEPOT, EMPIRE TODAY, LOWE'S and others. Please call us or E-mail us, to find out how we can meet all your flooring needs.
Remember, WE BRING THE SHOWROOM TO YOU! |
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