Ceramic wall tiles or as it is correctly selected ?

Types of ceramic tiles

ceramic tiles can be totally different species.It is distinguished by the method of molding, coating, based on color, size, etc.We describe in detail each of them.

• glazed (enamel coated) or not .In other words there is ceramic tiles glossy and matte.If we talk about the first type, its surface covered with a layer of colored glass.That is why there is so characteristic of a reflection.Ceramic tile matt glossy coating does not differs slightly rough surface.
• extruded or molded (by the method of forming).The first is made from dough-like mixture and form by passing through an extruder (special hole).The latter are produced as a powdery composition and molded under pressure under high pressure.
• dense or porous foundations (bases tiles).Defined porosity in the degree of absorption of water vapor.What it is, the greater the degree of absorption and the higher the porosity of the base.Usually it is indicated on the packaging.
• shape and size. considered the most popular form of square and rectangle.In some cases (in the original design) used the octagon, hexagon, Moorish and Provencal form.Size can also be different: 15x15, 33x33, 25x35, 45x45, and others.
• color and the presence of decoration. Colour tiles depends on the amount of pigment added to its composition.It is worth to know that in addition to any drawings can be natural shades that mimic stone, wood, leather and other textures.

tile types on the method of manufacturing

Depending on the method of manufacturing the tiles can also be subdivided into types: single or double firing, clinker, stoneware, terracotta. single-fired (or monokottura) involves the manufacture of tiles by pressing and drying the clay composition, application of glaze and firing. double-fired tiles (or bikottura) produced in the same way, with only two firing: before and after applying the glaze.

Porcelain tile created from a mixture of quartz, two types of clays, pigments, feldspar.This first composition is compressed under pressure, then dried and calcined at a final stage.The size of the finished tiles in this case may be:. 120x180, 60x60, 30x30, 60x120 cm Cotto made by ancient technology of red clay.Created by extrusion (passing through shape) and firing.Often in this case, a terracotta relief.

In its coat color cotto has a yellow, pink, brown shades. Paving tiles (or clinker) is glazed and unglazed.It is also made by extrusion and calcination at the maximum temperature.It is thanks to such temperatures in the oven turns out strong and durable material.In some cases, used in the manufacture of compression technique (high pressure).

selection of ceramic tiles

To understand which ceramic tile is best suited for your environment, it is important to define the conditions under which it will operate.If the expected finish the external surfaces (including facade), it is important to buy a material with high resistance to frost.Usually on the packaging have the appropriate designation - A I or B I.

In the event that you need to carry out domestic work, it is worth paying attention to the signs - A or III B III.Plus, keep in mind that there are significant differences between the floor and wall tiles, primarily on the degree of abrasion.So, buying material for floors, look at the characters - from the PEI-I to the PEI-V.The latter is the most stable, the first less resistant to abrasion.

After that you need to pay attention to the size and shape of the tiles.It must be perfectly flat and have the correct angle.Put the tiles on top of each other and compare the geometry (especially important if you have to ceramic handmade tiles).Also check and "slipperiness" of tiles.This can drop a little water to the surface and hold a finger.This is important so that later you can walk on the floor without falling and stumbling.