Ceramic Tiles: Finding the Right Type for Your Purpose

Author: kathycarbone | Posted: 05.04.2012

Ceramic tiles have been around for thousands of years. You may not be aware of it, but most churches, museums or buildings that you’ve been to probably had these ceramic tiles as flooring. Their various colors, styles and patterns can aesthetically enhance not only public places, but homes as well.

Ceramic Tiles and Beauty

Lovely tiled surfaces have been found in the ancient ruins of Greek cities and pyramids. Decorative tilework, mainly composed of geometric decorations, began in the east where it gained popularity and acquired more variety in design. Several methods of tile decoration were perfected in Persia during the Islamic Period. Ceramic tiles made of glazed bricks were used to adorn mosques and mausoleums. A key example of this is the architectural masterpiece Shah Mosque in Isfahan that has exquisite domes and halls embellished with tilework.

There are three basic types of ceramic tiles: (1) earthenware, (2) stoneware and (3) porcelain. These tiles are manufactured in a range of shapes, designs and sizes to cater to consumers’ demands and specifications. However, not all of them are appropriate for every area and weather condition. Each has a certain quality that outshines another type.

Earthenware

According to ceramic tile Tampa providers, earthenware tiles are better to be used indoors because of their high water absorption rate and weakness to frost. Earthenware’s rough texture and weathered look lends to its charm. They are used on walls to give a rustic appearance to a room. These tiles are often unglazed, thereby requiring you to apply wax or other coating products for a glossy finish and protection against stains.

Stoneware

Compared to earthenware, stoneware ceramic tiles are stronger and less porous. They are usually used as flooring in high traffic places such as public areas and business establishments. One advantage of stoneware ceramic tile Tampa flooring is that it can be glazed to make it slip and abrasion resistant. This is ideal for bathroom or outdoor floors to avoid slipping accidents at home or at work.

Porcelain Stoneware

Porcelain stoneware ceramic tile Tampa makers manufacture these tiles under high pressure and use colorful ceramic powders to create visual effects. Designs can be imprinted on its surface, thereby imitating wood, fabrics, stones, etc. It can be used on walls, floors, tabletops and its high mechanical strength makes it suitable for outdoor use even under extreme weather conditions.

Ceramic tiles are a great choice if you want to choose from a huge collection of designs. Read more about ceramic tiles at squidoo.com/types-of-ceramic-tiles.

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