Tile is a magnificent way to add custom distinct accents throughout your elegant home. It may help you to understand the difference in tiles and options, especially when making a purchasing decision, on which tile will make the final cut. Mitchell Construction can help you with the installation of all types of lovely tiles in your bathroom, kitchen, and even in other areas of the home. Here are some professional advice and tips from our team to help you make the right choice…
Ceramic
Most tiles are made from a clay mixture and then kiln-fired. This process classifies them as “ceramic.” From here, these ceramic tiles can be split into two categories: porcelain and non-porcelain tiles.
Non-porcelain ceramic tiles are made from either red or white clay and are fired in a kiln. They are much “softer” than porcelain and much easier to cut, but they also tend to wear over time faster. They also have a higher water absorption rate, which can make them susceptible to damage. Because they are less durable, non-porcelain tiles are usually less expensive than porcelain.
Porcelain tile is made by pressing porcelain clay. This process makes the tile stronger, denser, impervious, and sleek. Glazed porcelain tiles, for example, are much more wear and damage resistant than most non-porcelain tile, and are suitable for those high traffic areas in your house.
Ceramic tiles offer an infinite variety of colors and patterns. The end result and reason is partly due to the glazing process. This process allows color and design to be permanently added to the tile, creating a visually dazzling aesthetic. This beautiful look, coupled or paired with porcelain tiles being one of the strongest tiles on the market, makes these tiles a great option for any home!
Natural Stone
Natural stone tiles come in endless options, colors, textures, and styles just like ceramic tiles. The home’s most commonly used natural stones are marble, granite, travertine, limestone, and slate. Slate, for example, is composed mostly of micas, chlorite, and quartz. It is highly durable and is best suited for floors. The surface of the stone also offers interest, aside from its common black, gray, and green colors and vein patterns. The distinct cleft pattern can offer a natural feeling underfoot or be smoothed for a soft feel and appearance. Marble is one of the most popular natural stone options. Marble is available in many unique colors and veining, offering a rich visual appearance. However, marble can be softer and more porous than other stones like granite. This could potentially lead to staining. If you wish to incorporate marble into your home, opt to use it in your bathroom as opposed to the kitchen.
Granite
Granite is also extremely popular among homeowners. This extremely hard stone is second in hardness only to diamonds. Granite also offers a unique visual effect, with some versions offering the appearance of small flecks throughout the stone. Granite is extremely durable and has become a very popular kitchen countertop option.
If you are considering installing tiles to your house, seek the help of our team at Mitchell Construction. Not only can we help you pick the right product for your home, but our contractors can also properly and professionally install it for you, ensuring you and your family enjoy it for many years to come.