Not all tiles are created equal. Theoretically, they’re basically the same- but there are many small differences to consider when deciding the application you should use. Tiles are a combination of clay, minerals and solvents that are shaped and sized and then heated to very high temperatures. Here at Home Remedy Houston, we want to help you find the best tile to fill your specific needs. Keep reading to get an idea in your head about what kind of tile would work best for the lifestyle needs of you and your family.
With the technology and processes used to create tile in today’s society- it can just stay as is and is considered finished. It’s unglazed and without decoration. Without the glaze, the tile is very porous. Although this can be attractive in a rustic way, it wouldn’t be wise to use this type of tile in areas where spillage might be common, such as in a kitchen. Glazing adds a non-porous element that’s usually impermeable and therefore good for all areas, including kitchens and baths, foyers and countertops. Glazed tile is very easy to clean, and is almost impossible to stain- no matter what you spill on it. A good idea is to take this one step further and seal the grout around the tile so that your tiled surfaces are also waterproof. Besides being visually appealing, ceramic tile is a very desirable choice of tile for many reasons.- It’s strong
- Colorfast
- Flame-resistant
- Doesn’t conduct heat or electricity
- It’s hygienic
- It won’t absorb odors or emit hazardous chemicals
- It won’t swell or contract in extreme temperatures
- It’s extremely easy to clean.
You might be wondering where these tiles come from…? All around the world. Is tile from Spain better than tile from France? No- the only real differences are in design and possibly shape.
There are some things to consider before buying, though. If the tile is to be used outdoors, look for weatherproof/ waterproof tiles. It it’s to be used outdoors and you’re going to walk on it, take it a step further and buy a slip-resistant tile. If you find just the right tile but it’s not slip-resistant, no need to fear- you can have it treated for slip resistance to make sure your loved ones don’t take a tumble. Did you know that 45 percent of all accidents happen in the home? Did you also know that 95 percent of those accidents involve slipping and falling? With that in mind, it might be wise to treat all your tile floors with this slip-resistant application.
If the tile is to be used on a kitchen counter, find one that is not only glazed but also scratch-resistant. You won’t want to use it as a cutting board, but it should be durable enough that you can set pots and pans and cooking utensils on it.
Is the tile going to be put on a wall? It will probably receive little abuse in this position, so hand-painted beauties can be in the limelight here. Walls are the least of your worries when it comes to putting in tile. If you’re going for a classy, timeless aesthetic, the place to do it is on a wall.
Bottom line is, you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to select the right tile for the right application. However, with these pointers in mind, costly mistakes might be eliminated.Contact us here at Home Remedy Houston, we’d be happy to help you with your tile decisions and installations. 
