Ceramic tile is a very popular material, as it can be used anywhere: in the kitchen, in the bathroom, in the hallway. It is able to create a bright design, has high durability, does not require maintenance. This tile is universal with a long service life. The surface of ceramic tiles can be glossy — it will expand the space, but requires maintenance, matte — does not slip and does not leave streaks, polished — for exterior decoration, embossed — has a relief image.
Tile is made of clay, which is fired, and is a very strong, natural material for finishing. Tiles are produced, as well as mosaics on the floor, in the form of square or rectangular plates having a smooth or rough surface of different colors.
The main advantage of tile is its durability and practicality.
When choosing a tile by consumers, it usually matters the size of the tile, its color, surface texture, purpose and price of the tile.
Today, from the variety of sizes, colors, shapes of tiles, you can get confused when choosing. The tiled surface is directly related to the quality of each tile, therefore, when choosing a tile, it is necessary to take into account other important parameters.
For facing tiles are characterized by:
- higher linear indicators;
- resistance to deformation;
- resistance to mechanical impact;
- resistance and abrasion resistance.
Linear indicators are deviations of the dimensions of the tiles of the highest grade, which in length and width should be no more than 0.5%, as well as deviations of angles from straight lines should be no more than 0.3%.
High-quality tile tiles do not have deformations over time. Tile will be useful in a room with high humidity. Ceramics actively absorb moisture, tiles can change in size and fall out. The increase in the weight of the tile when wet should be no more than 1%.
Depending on the thickness, the tile has different resistance to mechanical stress and abrasion. The highest stability is Mohs 8-9. Such tiles are placed on any wall surface.
According to all these indicators, the tile is divided into grade I, II and III. It is usually marked with a different color on the package itself:I – red, II – blue, III – green.
For the floor, it is necessary to choose more stability and erasure indicators than wall tiles. Depending on these indicators, it is divided into five classes.
In addition to walls and floors, shaped tiles are decorated with baseboards, borders, friezes.
The dominant companies in the production of ceramic tiles are Spain and Italy. Italian and Spanish companies occupy the first places in the market with finishing materials and are trendsetters for ceramic tiles. First-class quality, diverse design of Italian and Spanish tiles are known all over the world. These are “Marazzi”, “Aparici”, “Peronda”, “Vives”, “Versace”, “Mysene”, “Rosenthal”.
The stunning collections presented by these companies allow designers to create spectacular interiors of extraordinary beauty.
Tiling is a rather time–consuming process and can only be trusted by a specialist. In order for the tile to lie flat, the surface for facing is well leveled. The tile is laid on special mixtures or glue for tile work. For better adhesion of the tile to the base, special building mixes are also used. There should be no voids under the tile, otherwise the ceramics may crack and eventually burst.
Ceramic tiles are a very ancient material for decoration. It was used in Babylon and Egypt.
