Design Basics: Types of Tiles
Reimagining a space in your home is a fun and productive way to make your home the place you want to come to after a long day at work. While large-scale projects have been put on the backburner thanks to the economy, homeowners are still doing what they can to give their homes a fresh new look.
Decorative tiles play a big role in making a home look and feel different. Tiles can be the quite standard kind you find on kitchen and bathroom floors, or they can be beautifully ornate wall coverings or decorations. There are numerous types, from ceramic to Talavera tiles—let’s take a look at a few of the different tile types.
Mosaic
Mosaic tiles are potentially the most well-known type of tiles, distinguished by a series of patterns, designs, and colors. The ability to create custom patterns by mixing and matching tiles is a big draw to mosaic. Mosaics are also very easy to install on your own.
Typically, mosaic tiles come in 2 inch squares, glazed or unglazed, and are made from either ceramic or porcelain. It’s possible to make your own by smashing old tiles into smaller pieces. You can easily create your own unique patterns through this method.
As most mosaic tiles are made from ceramic and porcelain, they tend to be quite durable. If mosaic is laid properly, it is sure to last a long time. Mosaic is easy to clean and is resistant to water and bacteria.
Quarry
Quarry tile is simply unglazed ceramic tile. It is so durable that it can be used outdoors and is very inexpensive. It is less prone to chips and scratches than other tile varieties. In colder climates, freeze-resistant grade quarry tiles can be used to prevent any weather-related problems.
However, quarry tiles are porous, which means they are susceptible to staining. As such, some homeowners choose to apply a wax or sealant, which resembles a glaze, to prevent stains and other potential damages. And unlike mosaic tiles, quarry tiles are limited in color selection, only existing in shades of brown, grey, red, and orange. Too much water can damage the tiles and cause mold growth in the grout.
Porcelain
Porcelain is actually a type of ceramic. Unlike ceramic, porcelain is fired at higher temperatures, making it much denser and moisture resistant. Even better, porcelain tiles are characteristically less porous, making them relatively resistant to stains. As such, porcelain is a great choice for both exteriors and interiors of homes.
However, porcelain tiles often cost more as they are harder to cut thanks to their density and hardness.
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