| Ceramic tile has been used for centuries and offers
consumers more options in color, texture, pattern and overall
beauty than most other floor covering materials. With new manufacturing
techniques today's ceramic tile designs are virtually indistinguishable
from natural marbles, travertines, slates and other stone products.
Glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles are great choices for bathrooms,
kitchens, foyers, sun rooms and great rooms. |
|
| |
To help select suitable tiles for specific applications
tiles are rated the P.E.I. (Porcelain Enamel Institute) scale.
The tiles are evaluated for wear resistance on a scale from 1
(lowest) to 5 (highest).
- PEI 1: Light Traffic - recommended for residential bathrooms
or other areas with light traffic and where shoes are not frequently
used.
- PEI 2: Medium Traffic - recommended for residential interiors,
except entryways,
kitchens, stairs or any area where tiles may come into contact with
gravel or sand.
- PEI 3: Medium-heavy Traffic - recommended for all residential
interiors and
light commercial applications. Not recommended for commercial entryway.
- PEI 4: Heavy Traffic - suitable for all residential interiors
and most commercial applications,
including shopping malls and public areas.
- PEI 5: Heavy-plus Traffic - all residential and commercial
areas where heavy-duty
wear ability is needed.
|
|
| |
| Ceramic tiles are also classified by their water
absorption rate which reflects the density of the body of the
tile. There is a direct relationship to the water absorption rate
and the suitability of the various types of tile for interior
or exterior applications. Tiles suitable for exterior applications
must have a very low water absorption rate, especially in climates
subject to freezing and thawing cycles. These are typically porcelain
body tiles which have a moisture absorption rating of less than
.5 %. |
|
| |
| Like the natural products themselves tiles will
vary in shading. This adds to the beauty and design of the products.
When choosing a tile it's best to view 2-3 tiles together to visually
determine the overall appearance of the tile. |
|
| |
|
Our Ceramic Brands
|
|