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What shapes and sizes of tiles are available? |
| Brick |
Brick tiles are a good floor choice for informal or rustic décor. Available in several earth tone colours, brick tiles should be treated with a stain resistant sealer. Floor brick is normally used in outdoor settings (such as patios) and can be arranged in interesting geometric patterns. |
| Cement |
Cement-bodied tiles are poured into molds, then fired or dried naturally. Colour may be added. Sealing is required after installation for moisture and stain resistance.
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| Ceramic |
Ceramic tiles are made from clay or other minerals. The extruded material is shaped and heat-treated (fired) in a kiln. Clay tiles are then further treated in one of two ways:
Glazed — Colour is added to the tile after firing. The glasslike surface is bonded to the tile. Glazing allows brighter colours to be used and adds stain resistance. Because of their slick, glassy surface, glazed tiles are used mostly on walls or countertops. Glazed tiles offer more colour choices than unglazed.
Unglazed — (Also called quarry tiles). The pigment or natural color is present during firing and is part of the tile itself. Unglazed tiles need sealing for stain resistance.
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| Mosaic |
Porcelain or ceramic mosaic tiles are two inches square or smaller. They can be installed individually or can be found pre-mounted on mesh or paper sheets. Mosaics may be glazed or unglazed.
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| Pavers |
Pavers resemble brick, but are thinner. Shale based pavers are used for patios as well as interior floors. Like quarry tiles, pavers need sealing for moisture and stain proofing
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| Porcelain |
The material is fired at a very high temperature, making a dense tile. The denser tile makes porcelain tiles more resistant to moisture.
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| Quarry |
Quarry tiles are unglazed and require sealing in wet areas. Clay-based quarry tiles are used extensively in commercial settings. Because it's a durable and relatively inexpensive material, it's becoming more acceptable in homes. The predominant colours are earth shades of red and orange.
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| Saltillo |
Saltillo or Mexican tiles are air dried rather than kiln dried. Drying outdoors in the sun makes this tile a little softer and less durable. The exposure to the elements also gives the tile a look that is unique. When used indoors a sealer is required.
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| Terra cotta |
Terra cotta is the same material in construction and appearance as clay garden pots. Tiles are absorbent and need to be treated for indoor use.
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| Terrazzo |
Stone or marble chips embedded in cement make up a terrazzo floor. The polished surface makes a durable floor material.
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