Ceramic and porcelain tiles provide some of the most versatile interior design possibilities, sporting an almost limitless array of sizes, colors, textures, and designs.

Ceramic tile brings texture, richness and color to a room that linoleum has yet to truly mimic. Tile floors can be installed in any room, however they are most frequently seen in bathrooms and kitchens. They make a great transition flooring in entry ways where heavy traffic brings everything from the outdoors in. Tile floors are easy to clean up and are impervious to water damage.

Ceramic floor tile is easy to care for, more durable than other flooring options and the range of prices appeals to any budget.

There Are Basically Two Types Of Ceramic Tiles:

Ceramic Tile Flooring Ceramic tiles come in two basic types, Glazed and Porcelain. Glazed tiles are the best choice for heavy traffic areas and porcelain tiles work well in bathrooms. Porcelain tile is typically more expensive, so consider your budget and the size of the area you want to tile. Tiles also come in many shapes and sizes. For flooring, however, it is recommended to use larger tiles up to 24" x 12".

Glazed ceramic floor tiles have a thin coat of glass-like material fired onto the top side. This coating is very durable, comes in an endless number of colors and a wide variety of finishes including non slip.

For home decorators no other floor covering offers a wider variety of colors, sizes and styles. Hand painted floor tiles and custom colors are readily available.

What's New In Ceramic Tile...

Deep textures with metallic finishes.
A creamy coffee look is beginning to emerge as one of the most popular color combination.
Tiles are getting larger, giving a room look as if it was laid with a single solid piece of stone. 18X18 and 18X36 seem to be the most significant trend.
Outdoor tiles are continuing to dominate indoor surfaces, with granite and slate are showing up in every room of the house.
Porcelain is also much more affordable than it used to be, in addition to being a very durable tile, making it a good buy for the consumer.

The Advantages of Ceramic Tile:

Looks very luxurious; adds value to home
Easy to maintain
Very durable
Low maintenance
Individual tiles can be replaced if damaged

Characteristics of Glazed Ceramic Tile Flooring Are:

Durable - ceramic tile will outperform and outlast nearly any other floor covering product.
Easy to care for - glazed ceramic tile resists stains, odors, and dirt and can be cleaned up with a damp mop.
Scratch resistant - glazed ceramic tiles are extremely resistant to scratching.
Environmentally friendly - ceramic tile is manufactured using natural materials and does not retain odors, allergens, or bacteria.
Beautiful and versatile - an unlimited number of colors, sizes, styles, shapes, and textures.
Fire resistant - ceramic tile doesn't burn.
Water resistant - most glazed ceramic tile permits little or no accumulation of moisture.

Unglazed floor tile or pavers is just that - unglazed. Because the unglazed ceramic tile does not have a second layer, the true color of the clay runs through.

It is recommended that a penetrating sealer be applied to non glazed tiles to help avoid staining. With the consist color of these tiles, scratches and wear pattern are non existent.

While an unglazed ceramic tile offers a beautiful rich look to any room, the natural colors of the clay limit the color choices in this tile.