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Ceramic Tile Glossary Of Terms
Part 2
Not
all ceramic tiles are produced in the same manner nor do they have
the same wear qualities. It is important that you understand what you are buying.
Selection of ceramic tiles
Tiles are a produced by mixing a variety of different clays.
These clays are then pressed into numerous different shapes and
sizes and then fired (baked) at very high temperatures. It is
the firing that gives ceramic tile it’s hardness. The bisque (body) of ceramic tile may then
be painted and/or glazed, or left unglazed depending on it’s intended use.
Classifications of Ceramic
Tile
Wear Ratings from the Porcelain Enamel
Institute (P.E.I.):
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Group I:
Tiles that are suitable for
residential bathrooms with light foot traffic . Generally
wall tile products fall into this group. Some wall tiles can be used
on the floor. Consult the manufacturer of the tile for their
recommended areas of application.
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Group II:
Tiles that can be used in
residential areas, but not areas with high foot traffic, such as in
kitchens, foyers, laundry rooms, etc.
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Group III:
Tiles that are recommended
for all residential installations with normal foot traffic.
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Group IV:
Tiles that are suited for
light to medium commercial applications, such as offices, sales
rooms.
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Group V:
Tiles used in heavy
commercial traffic areas and are suited for exterior areas, shopping
centers, airports, hotel lobbies, public walkways.
Types of Tiles:
– tiles that are
less than 6 inches facial area and may be either porcelain or
natural clay composition and usually are 3/8" or less in thickness.
Quarry Tile – tiles made from the
extrusion process from shale or natural clays and usually are 6
square inches or more in facial size and can be glazed or unglazed.
Paver Tile – glazed or unglazed
natural clay or porcelain tiles having a facial area of six square
inches or more and made from the dust-pressed method.
Wall Tile – glazed tiles with that
are designed for indoor use and are generally non-vitreous.
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Common Tile Terms:
– The most common style today
in floor and wall tiles, as well as for residential and commercial
applications. A liquid glass is applied to the body of the tile and
fired at high temperatures. The glazing becomes hard and non-porous
resulting in a flooring that is:
Stain Resistant
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Scratch Resistant
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Fire Resistant
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Doesn’t Fade from Sun Light
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Slip Resistant
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Easy to Clean
Shiny glazes are softer, can be scratched
easier, and can be slippery than the satin or rustic finishes.
Continued.........
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