Types of Kitchen Flooring

The right kitchen flooring can not only make life simpler, it has the capability to set the mood for the whole room. The 3 main factors to think about when deciding on the kind of flooring for your kitchen are sturdiness, use, and style. We’ll begin by taking a more in-depth look at some of the hottest decisions in kitchen flooring. Hardwood Flooring With its heat and inviting tone, hardwood flooring creates a normal feeling in any kitchen. Hardwood surfaces are renowned for their beauty and status and are robust surfaces that are simple to scrub. One of the hottest kinds of hardwood floors is oak which is neutral in colour and extraordinarily sturdy. Other well-liked types of wood utilised for flooring are ash, cherry and walnut. Hardwood flooring come in 2 types : solid and built. Solid flooring is cut from single pieces of wood and worked into desired shapes. Solid hardwood surfaces come in strip flooring which are nailed to sub-flooring, plank flooring that has broader boards, and parquet flooring which comes in squares or geometrical shapes to form different patterns. Built flooring is made by laminating thin sheets of wood together in a crisscross pattern for strength. They’re then crowned with a veneer of hardwood to add strength. Built flooring holds up better than solid flooring when exposed to changes in moisture and humidity. This makes it a good selection for below-ground floors. Engineered hardwood surfaces come in strips and planks. When purchasing hardwood surfaces for your kitchen, you need to ensure that it has been finished. Pre-finished hardwood is your best chance for a few reasons. First off, pre-finished wooden flooring is less susceptible to damage and better to maintain than its half finished opposite number. Second , it is tougher and will mostly come with long term manufacturer warranties.

Finally , pre-finished hardwood flooring are offered in a good variety of stain colors and can be simply re-stained to match future transforming projects. Laminated flooring Laminate is an inexpensive choice for kitchen flooring that’s both long lasting and simple to maintain. Though not said to be on the same level as wood and marble flooring, laminate can be made to imitate such looks. It is made from a few layers and can be installed over existing floors. Laminated floors has a magnificent life-span. In the lifespan of one laminate floor, carpet would have to be replaced two to four times, solid hardwoods would need three to five refinishing treatments, and vinyl flooring would have to be replaced three times. Most laminated flooring incorporates a maker’s warranty of twenty-five years or longer. Laminated floors is intensely sturdy, which makes it an excellent choice for families with busy kitchens.

It’ll resist damage from traffic, spills, and scrapes and it makes cleaning and upkeep really easy.

Laminated floors won’t lose colour over the course of time while flooring like hardwood has a tendency to fade. It is offered in numerous different patterns and styles, and can imitate other kinds of flooring like wood, rock, gravel, and concrete.

Vinyl Flooring Vinyl flooring is a reasonable and beautiful choice for kitchen flooring. Due to its sturdiness and moisture resistance it is basically utilized in busy areas of the home like kitchens and bathrooms. One more reason for its recognition is that it can, very like laminate, be made to imitate other flooring materials like stone, marble, and wood. Vinyl flooring is commonly referred to by the preferred manufacturers ‘ trade names Linoleum and Congoleum. Vinyl is made from plastic, or even more especially polyvinyl chloride – shortened PVC – to which other compounds are added. It can be comprised of either multiple layers of material or simply one layer. It is made using one of 2 processes : inlay or rotovinyl.

With inlay vinyl, colour and pattern are imbedded into the vinyl layers, while with rotovinyl only a single layer of vinyl is broadcast with colour and pattern. Both producing processes need a protecting coating overlay to boost sturdiness.

Inlay vinyl flooring, which is available only in tile form, offers great wear resistance since the colours and patterns go all of the way thru the flooring material. Rotovinyl comes in both sheet and tile form. Resistance to wear is conditional upon the sort of protecting coating used in the producing process. Vinyl floors are really easy to maintain. Sweeping or employing a dust mop is sometimes all that’s required.

Marble Flooring Marble flooring is legendary for its natural beauty and unequalled durability. Marble is a sort of metamorphic rock that’s formed underneath the earth’s crust. Though the majority choice for some, marble flooring isn’t the ideal choice for kitchen flooring as it is permeable and susceptible to marking.

Marble flooring comes in numerous styles and always adds an original look to a room because no 2 slabs of marble are matching. It comes in a selection of colours like pure white, deep green, brown, gray and blue.

It is ranked in grades A thru D, A being the most powerful with the least natural defects and D being the softest with many faults.

Though grade A marble is the costliest, it’s the commended choice for kitchens because it’s the most sturdy. When selecting marble for your kitchen floor, there are a couple of things to bear in mind.

Since marble surfaces can get very greasy when wet, you must select finishes to assist in the creation of traction for your floor ; these include tumbled and refined finishes. Marble flooring also needs regular upkeep to last a long while.

As it is penetrable, marble is subject to stains from common household liquids so it is critical to use a sealant to guard it. Ceramic Tile Flooring Ceramic tile flooring is a really favored kind of kitchen flooring in the US – it is among the oldest and longest-lasting flooring materials known. Ceramic tile is particularly well matched for areas with heavy traffic and exposure to water and mud , for example entryways, lavatories, kitchens and corridors. There are 4 basic decisions to make when selecting ceramic tile for your floor : size, shape, colour, and finish. Ceramic tile ranges in size from 0.25″ square to twelve” x twelve” squares and even bigger. Shapes include square, oblong, diamond, hexagon, octagon, triangular, round and so on. – dependent on your position, you can get ceramic tile in any shape you can potentially imagine. Colour choices are unlimited, from black and white to everything in-between, and so far as finish is troubled the majority select the glazed finish. Glazed tile is simply more proof against water and simpler to clean than any other finish. It does are more greasy when wet, but you can simply get tiles that are glazed with a non-slip material, which should take care of that problem. Ceramic tiles are terribly robust, sturdy, cheap, and need little maintenance – making it an enticing alternative option to lots of other flooring materials. Tile Flooring Stone tile flooring has a pleasant appearance and is durable and strong. It comes in a couple of textures and colours and no 2 pieces are the same. Stone tiles can look standard and country or modern and chic. Though this flooring option can be pricey, stone tiles have the potentiality to last a life-time. Stone tile floors are typically easy to maintain, generally requiring only a mop for cleaning. For additional sturdiness, stone should be occasionally sealed.

Since kitchens can get busy and untidy places, you need to select stone tiles that are impervious to moisture damage and marking. Granite tile flooring is among the more desirable options for kitchen flooring as it is denser and harder than other stone options. Granite is still at the mercy of stains so it should be sealed and intermittently resealed for regular upkeep. Factors like room size, layout, materials used and quantity of work needed will all affect the price of your kitchen reworking project. Your project is going to cost more if you’re beginning afresh with a total rework instead of just replacing 2 items. A kitchen refubing project can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 or perhaps $150,000 – you can control the price of your kitchen revamping project by making product decisions that fit your position. A new kitchen is a heavy investment, so take some time selecting colours, finishes and features – and remember to have some jollies. Work closely with your pro contractor and do not hesitate to ask for help and creative ideas – this can bring you one step nearer to the kitchen of your dreams.

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Tile Flooring In Grand Rapids Michigan

Looking For Tile Flooring In The Grand Rapids Area?

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Flooring In Grand Rapids

Looking For Flooring In The Grand Rapids Area

We are your complete source for Tile, Carpet, Granite Counters, Hardwood, Laminate, Vinyl, and more!

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Geysbeek Tile has been providing top notch service throughout the state of Michigan and the West Michigan area for over 11 years. We are able to work with customers from start to finish ensuring that we create an atmosphere they desire within their homes and businesses.

We handle any size job, commercial or residential, and are ready and willing to assist you in fashioning the interior you long for; or to simply update worn or outdated flooring.



Tiles Varieties

Tiles come in many shapes and sizes. Can be used for floors, walls in the kitchen for things like banks and start back, even the roofs. They come in all shapes, sizes, colors and textures. Whatever the need, there will be a tab for the job. But how do you know it’s the mosaic tiles for the job? Read on to learn more about the different types of tile in Grand Rapids, their advantages and disadvantages and are commonly used.

Ceramic

Let’start with the most common tile everyone is familiar. Ceramic tiles are commonly seen and used in bathrooms and showers. They are very resistant, waterproof and easy to clean and can be purchased for as little as $ 30 per square meter.

Inside the ceramic tile walls and tiles are tiles that are made for your floors. Tiles are almost always glossy (shiny) finish and is thinner and lighter than the floor. This allows for easier installation.

Floor tiles are thicker and heavier than the coating. Because people walk upon them and furniture can be stored in them must be very strong. Floor tiles may also have a glossy finish and is often the case of living spaces. However, if you use a ceramic tile in wet areas like the bathroom, it is suggested that you use a glossy finish. A glossy finish, the mosaic will be slippery and dangerous when wet.

Ceramic tiles are a great all-purpose tile. They resist water can withstand very high heat and are relatively easy to install. Be careful though because ceramic tiles are very brittle so if you drop them or drop something very hard on to them they can crack and even shatter.

Ceramic tiles are installed on top of a tile adhesive with a small gap in between each tile. The gap is then filled with a tile grout that can come in various colors but it usually white. These tiles also come in a variety of sizes. Everything from a small 100mm x 100mm square tile, to a large 600mm x 600mm square tile. There is a wide range of sizes in between these to suit your needs and give the right look. They also come as rectangle sizes like 100mm x 200mm.

Stone

Stone tiles are very similar to ceramic tiles except they are made from natural stone rather than ‘manufactured’. Stone tiles are usually very heavy, very strong and also able to withstand a lot of punishment and traffic. They can be made from marble, slate, sandstone, travertine and various other natural stones.

They either come in a natural finish or a machined finish. A machined finish means the top of the tile has been cut back to give a flat surface in the same way that ceramic tiles are flat. A natural finish means the top of the tiles has only been roughly cut and they will have natural dips, grooves and bumps. Which ones you use comes down to personal choice and the look you are going for. Both can be very beautiful and effective.

Unlike ceramic tiles, stone tiles absorb water. This means they will not be as slippery when wet, but also means they need to be sealed to prevent stains. If you spill some red wine on a stone tile that has not been sealed — it will be there forever.

Stone tiles Perth are more expensive than ceramic tiles and therefore are not as common. Because they are more expensive and not as common, stone tiles can really stand out and have an impact on the look of your house. They will also add value to your house if you are looking to sell – especially in the competitive Perth market.

Stone tiles are slightly more difficult to lay than ceramic tiles because of their extra weight. They are very strong and heavy so it also makes cutting the tiles harder. Otherwise they are laid in pretty much the same manner as ceramic tiles.

Cork

Cork tiles Perth are usually 300mm x 300mm and as the name suggests, are made from cork. Cork tiles are popular for use on floors in general living areas. They are much warmer than ceramic tiles and also much quieter.

Another advantage to cork tiles is that they are softer then ceramic tiles. This means they are more comfortable to walk on, but also if you drop a glass or something similar it is less likely to break if you have a cork floor. Cork tiles need to be sealed to protect them. Depending on the variety they may come already sealed or they may need to be sealed after installation.

Similar to ceramic tiles, cork tiles are laid on a special adhesive. The difference however is that cork tiles are butted right up against one another. There is no gap left in between each tile. This not only saves installation time and makes the job easier, but when a complete floor is laid, you can not see that it was done using tiles. Instead the floor will look like one piece of cork and this can be quite effective.

The downside of cork tiles is that they are not as hard wearing and durable as ceramic or stone tiles. In heavy wearing areas they will need to be replaced, or at least refurbished after 10 – 15 years. In Perth be careful about laying cork tiles in an area that gets high amounts of sun. The harsh Perth sun can quickly fade cork tiles – even if they have been sealed. Upfront they are a cheaper alternative to something like stone, but over many years they will need to be replaced and can end up costing even more.

Carpet

Similar to cork tiles, it is possible to get carpet tiles that come in approximately 300mm x 300mm squares. The end result is also similar in that a complete floor will look like one piece of carpet and not tiles.

One advantage of carpet tiles over normal carpet is that you can replace individual tiles if they get damaged or stained. This is a great way to keep your floor looking brand new for years to come. Carpet tiles are also easier to handle than trying to get in a bit roll of carpet.

If you have a very big area that you want to carpet it may be that it is not possible to get a roll of carpet big enough. In this case – carpet tiles are the perfect solution. Carpet tiles in Perth are more common in large areas like halls, office buildings and business premises. This does not mean you can not use them for your home. They come in many designs and are usually very easy to clean. Great for a large kids room or activity area.

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring was traditionally only available in a sheet, however it is now possible to get vinyl tiles. This is similar to cork or carpet tiles. Vinyl tiles are very cheap, hard wearing and warm and soft underfoot. You can get various designs to match whatever look you are after. You can even get vinyl that has a timber look to it.

Modern vinyl is suitable for use in any area, including wet areas like bathrooms. It is a great alternative to more expensive tiles like natural stone and give any area a great face lift. The use of vinyl tiles in Perth bathrooms can sometimes have a negative impact on the resale value of your home. The Perth market sees them as a cheap option. If you are not considering selling in the near future they are a fantastic and much cheaper alternative to ceramic and very easy to lay.

Rubber

Rubber tiles have only recently started being used around the home. They are very hard wearing, slip resistant, extremely quiet and are nice and soft to walk on.

The color range is limited and they probably will not suit many styles but are still an option that should be considered. Rubber tiles are cheap to lay and cheap to buy. They are a great discount tile for the Perth area but may be hard to find because they are still not very common.

A perfect location for rubber tiles Perth would be an outdoor shower near a pool or spa.

The author has been working with tiles in Perth for many years and is trying to give a bit back to the Perth community. The author’s site provides information on purchasing, installing and removing tiles. It is based on Perth, Western Australia but the information applies to any location. You find out more about tiles at these websites:

www.tiles-perth.com.au
www.tiles-perth.com.au/tiles-perth/paintingtiles-perth-your-how-to-guide

Tile for Every Room in the Home is a Hot Design Trend

Today’s recent design trends have sparked a passion for innovation in the world of ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are no longer simple, white squares protecting kitchen countertops. They have evolved into an art form encompassing the personality and creativity of homeowners through textures, their use of light, and their ability to mimic natural aesthetics.

Ceramic tiles can be used in every room of the home — the only limit is your imagination. The 2006 Casa Décor show in Miami is a great example of creative uses of ceramic tile. For the show, the Miami Women’s Club was transformed from an outdated space to a venue showcasing some of the world’s most captivating interior and exterior designs.

Encompassing five floors, all filled with elaborate décor, overlooking the beautiful Biscayne Bay with a gorgeous view of downtown Miami Beach, the Casa Décor show complements the style and liveliness of Miami’s diverse cultural melting pot. There were rooms that echoed traditional culture and refinement along side spaces with beautifully painted graffiti paying tribute to the culture of the city outside its walls. Designers were free to bring their wildest thoughts and inspirations to life.

Designers of Casa Decor Miami were given the opportunity to integrate ceramic tiles, a central theme of the showhouse, into their creations. For these spaces, seven of Tile of Spain’s branded manufacturers were specifically chosen by numerous designers and laid throughout the entire Casa Decor house, setting the tone for each space and adorning each room with unique personality. The manufacturers chosen included a whose who of the Spanish Tile industry.

Many tiles from these manufacturers allowed designers to play-up the transfusion of light on the tile surfaces with tactile tiles, an ever-growing trend gaining appeal with the hospitality industry in particular where designers delicately embellish to impress. Diago Ceramicas, a Tile of Spain branded manufacturer, juxtaposes a matt surface with an opulent relief to create the art deco feel of its Magica series. Perfect for bathroom walls, or headboards, these tactile tiles invite light to dance across their surfaces.

Other such tactile tiles, such as the Ecology Dimensions collection from Tres Estilos, are perfect for bars and cafés, giving those spaces dimension and architectural appeal. These tiles are deeply textured seeking their inspiration from the vaults, domes and pyramids of classic architecture.

One of the hottest trends in the ceramic tile industry today is the technology of capturing the visual essence of natural light and infusing a multitude of colors using Glass Tile. What is created is both a beautiful tile for exterior and interior backsplash and wall spaces in the home as well as stunning installations for pools and spas.

Another current trend for homes this year is tiles that resemble fabrics and animal prints. Traditionally viewed as the epitome of timeless, classic style, leather is making a statement in a less political way. Decorating with ceramic tiles is giving leather lovers an animal-friendly way of adorning walls and floors with the look of hide. Textured fabrics covering floors and walls are also in demand. Ceramic tiles from leading manufacturers have now captured the flow and allure of fabrics with new-found durability.

Ceramics are no longer one-dimensional. And out of new designers who appreciate the durable, adaptability, come creative and inspired living spaces.

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Glass Tile Is Getting Popular

Glass Tile is gaining in popularity

In many parts of the U.S., tile floors have been en vogue for some time, with gorgeous foyers sprawling with travertine and kitchens looking clean and contemporary with ceramic tile as their base.  But the newest sensation in tile, making its way east to Michigan from California, is glass.

Glass tile comes in “field tile”, similar to the ceramic tile shapes you are probably most familiar with, as well as the rectangular subway style tiles. Some of it is even made from recycled products, making it eco-friendly as well as durable.

But the most popular way to use glass tile is as mosaic tile. Typically, these tiles are approximately 1 inch by 1 inch in measurement and are often attached to a mesh backing for easy installation. Using this mosaic tile in showers, for example, is a great way to add that spa quality to a bathroom –  wrapping the entire stall with glass adds luxury and value to the room.

While ceramic tile is generally affordable, some varieties of glass tile can be a little pricey. The good news is you can still incorporate it into any remodeling budget. One option, if not using glass tile as the primary tile decorating element, opt instead for decorative touches that will bring lasting value to your home. A great example is to use good quality stone, such as tumbled travertine, in your kitchen’s back splash and then, every few tiles insert a beautiful glass tile as an accent. Glass tile looks particularly good with stainless steel, making kitchens look less sterile while still keeping them clean.

If cost is not an issue, try using glass mosaic tile throughout an entire master bathroom, lining not only the shower, but using it as the back splash behind sinks, bringing it up behind the mirrors all the way to the ceiling. You can even line the rise of stairs leading to a spa tub with the glass tile. Pull a few of the colors from the tile onto to accent walls with paint and you’ve got a bathroom fit for a five-star resort.

In visiting designer showrooms and researching the latest trends, we found myriad uses for this multi-functional material. Here are three more ideas to try:

GET WET

One of the best uses for glass tile is as pool tile. Who wants boring, rough concrete at their pool’s edges when there’s a much more chic option available? Having the water line (just the first six to eight inches of the inside of your pool) lined with glass tile will create an amazing shimmering effect, as the sunlight bounces off of not only the water, but also the glass around its edges. For a traditional look, glass tile comes in a variety of shades of blue, from deep azures to the crisp aquas that echo the seas of the Mediterranean. For something different, shades of metallic silver are hip enough for designers who have been using these palettes in magazines and on television this season. Try it and bring star quality to your pool.

CHANGE YOUR HUE

Glass tile is a great way to add color to your drab walls without battling toxic paints and messy wallpapers. Don’t limit your self to the traditional “wet rooms” like kitchens and bathrooms for installing tile. An entryway can gain that major “wow” factor with an accent wall lined floor to ceiling with sparkling glass. Other great spaces include hobby rooms, mudroom, and laundry rooms, which are so much more than utilitarian spaces these days. Dress up these rooms with tile, and extend your livable space to new corners of your home.

GO ORGANIC

Who wants to be square? Another great aspect to using mosaic tile is that you aren’t confined to the straight lines of its tile cousins. Because mosaic tile is on mesh backing, it can be trimmed to create flowing, organic shapes. Some of the best projects using this tile show as forming wavy shapes around circular vanity mirrors or creating almost mountainous shapes that disappear into bathroom corners. This form of tile allows for a lot of creative experimentation, so have fun with it and see what you can create.

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Measuring For Ceramic Tile

When measuring for ceramic tile the rule is:

Length x Width + Waste = Amount Needed

Waste Factor will vary based upon ceramic tile size, layout, configuration of room, and design patterns, etc.  Other considerations include where the tile is being installed such as a countertop, shower enclosure, backsplash or of course on the floor.  Typical waste factor is usually about 5%-10%.  For floor tile being installed on a diagonal pattern, add 15% for a room with lots of curves and corners. These installations will require more cuts and thus more waste.

Example:

Actual room size  7ft 5 in x 5 ft 9 in

If you convert to inches:

Actual room size: 89 in x 69 in

89″ x 69″= 6141 inches divided by 144 (1 sf) = 42.65sf + waste factor (42.65 x 1.10)  = 47 sf

Measuring ceramic tile floors and walls is by and large the same process.  Measure the area to be tiled on each wall.  Add each wall together and figure the square footage. Add your waste factor and this is the amount needed.

Most vertical ceramic tile applications and many horizontal ceramic tile applications will require trim pieces which have finished edges?  Examples of different trim pieces include V-CAPS, Bullnose, and Quarter Rounds.  This requires a linear measurement. Ceramic Tile trim pieces will be used:

1.    Where a tiled surface ends on an open wall leaving an exposed tile edge,

2.    Where a vertical surface meets a horizontal, like on the edge of a countertop,

3.    Where a vertical surface turns a corner, like on the outside corner of a wall.

Ceramic Tile trim pieces and decoratives are typically sold by the piece. To figure the quantity you have to establish the length of the trim piece (i.e. 6″ bullnose, 8″ decorative liner), then the rule is:

Linear Inches divided by Piece Length = Quantity

Example:

Eight foot exposed edge that needs quarter round = 96 inches.

Using 6″ Trim piece = 96 inches divided by 6 inches  = 16 pieces of quarter round needed

Using 8″ decorative liner = 96 inches divided by 8 inches = 12 pieces of liner needed

These formulas will help you estimate the quantities you’ll need.  It is always a good idea to have someone you trust with math skills review your measurements and order quantities before placing your order and starting your project.

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Understanding the Differences Between Porcelain and Ceramic Tile

Ceramic Tile

The word ceramic can be traced back to the Greek term keramos, meaning “a potter” or “pottery.” Keramos in turn is related to an older Sanskrit root meaning “to burn.” Thus the early Greeks used the term to mean “burned stuff” or “burned earth” when referring to products

Ceramic tile and Porcelain tile is essentially the same product, the difference being the end result out of the kilns.  The popularity of ceramic and porcelain tile stems from the fact that the material is available in a wide range of shapes, colors and texture and generally requires lower maintenance and is infinitely easier to clean than natural stone, granite and marble.

Ceramic tiles cover a wide range of properties – generally children are glazed (although there are exceptions) and the enamel layer can be extremely durable. Often, the pictures can be used in freeze thaw environments in which they are manufactured with properties similar to porcelain tiles. Consult the dealer or manufacturer for more specific information about your chosen product.

The manufacture of ceramic tiles is a unique process because of the special qualities of materials inputs. The manufacturing process for the manufacture of ceramic tile begins with the extraction of feldspar and clay minerals of the earth. The raw clay pulverized and crushed in a multistep process that can involve up to three separate crushing mechanisms depending on the size of the particles. Small particles are then separated by size using screens. Tiles come in different qualities and different agencies may have colored two factors at least partly determined by the proportion of different clay materials combined with the mixture of tiles. The combination of nature and amount of specific clays is measured carefully and mixed together, a process in which the ground until later. The tiles are then formed using this mixture either by the method of pressing dry or wet. There are different machines and methods for pressing the mixture in the tiles and formatted correctly as there are different ways to apply glaze. The glaze can change the texture of the tile and the color, pattern and feel of it. Ceramic tiles are dry-milled biscuit cooked at relatively low temperatures before they are glazed, so they are glazed and re-fired for a maximum of 2-3 days at temperatures around 2300 ° C. The wet milled tiles take less time to fire, sometimes as little as 60 minutes, at temperatures around 2100 ° C. This Single-shot called monocottura and makes it harder, stronger tiles. Technology in the ceramic tiles business is constantly changing and there are now processes that form the tiles and glaze together.

Once in the home of the clients, the installation is not difficult and can often be performed by a handyman to fix with a moderate capacity and repair. The good thing is that pictures are easier to stick on the floor and usually easier to cut porcelain tile. Porcelain tiles are harder to bond and harder to cut due to the properties of dense matter. Although it may be useful for tile installation program is usually little difference to the end user, because the installer uses the right installation materials.

Porcelain Tile

Many homeowners and do it yourselfers have heard the term porcelain tile.  This refers to tiles which are made from special “porcelain” clays and have been fired at very high temperatures.  This process vitrifies the tile which makes it very hard, like glass.  This also makes the tile dense, forms a strong solid structure and a hard surface which doesn’t absorb water (classified as impervious), doesn’t stain, and isn’t affected by wear and tear over time

There are two main types of porcelain tile.  Glazed porcelain and through-bodied porcelain.

Glazed porcelain has a body made of the porcelain material and then a glaze is applied over the surface much like a regular ceramic tile.  It is fired in a kiln and the result is a very strong bodied tile.  Many tile manufacturers are switching their production to porcelain bodied tile because for a slightly higher cost, they can produce a superior grade tile.

Through-bodied porcelain does not have a glaze.  The clay is pressed and then fired.  It may have texture and color applied to the surface before firing but it is still the porcelain material from top to bottom.  The result is a strong tile that can withstand extreme surface traffic.  There is no glaze that can wear off.  If the tile chips, the same or similar color is underneath.  Because of the high cost of manufacturing this type of tile, only a very small percentage of the tiles you might see in a tile store are true through bodied porcelain tiles.  Most often this type of porcelain tile is installed by commercial users who have a need for the strength and durability of through bodied material.

Porcelain tiles typically have water absorption of 0.5% or less. Ceramic tiles have water absorption greater than 0.5%.  Because porcelain tiles have a low water absorption, they are usually frost resistant – although, not always. To know if a tile is frost resistant, you should check the manufacturer’s literature and product specs.  Porcelain tiles tend to cost more but are well worth the extra cost.

Understanding the terms shade and caliber?

Ceramic Tile is a natural material with a natural composition which becomes resistant when fired at very high temperatures. This process, however, can cause slight differences in the shades of color of a tile between one batch and the next. Therefore, tiles are grouped before packaging according to their “dye lots” or shade and their caliber. The “dye lot” (or shade of that batch of material) is then indicated on the label of every box.  This is why when placing your order for tile, it is very important to order enough tile to not only complete the job but also to have extra for any repairs that may need to occur sometime down the line.  Five to ten percent extra tile on most orders should be sufficient.

Grading of Tile

PEI ratings

PEI rates are more applicable for floor tiles and are ratings that measure the abrasive resistance of the tile’s glaze on a scale of 0-5. This test is only for glazed tiles and does not apply to unglazed porcelain tile or other unglazed types of tile.

Class 1 (PEI 1) Recommended for wall use

May be used both on interior walls or bath floors without direct access to outdoor elements. Recommended for tiles that are suitable for residential bathrooms with light barefoot foot traffic.  Some wall tiles may be used on the floor.

Class 2 (PEI 2) Light Residential Use

May be used where abrasive foot traffic is minimal – such as bathrooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, living rooms, and sunrooms.   Tiles can be used in residential areas, but not areas with high foot traffic such as kitchens, hallways etc.

Class 3 (PEI 3) All Residential floors

For floors subject to normal foot traffic and usage (including kitchens, outdoor entryways and hallways).   These tiles can be recommended for all residential installations with normal foot traffic.

Class 4 (PEI 4) All Residential floors and light-medium Commercial floors with moderate traffic

Suitable for light to medium commercial applications. Will withstand light to moderate foot traffic in many commercial areas (commercial kitchens, hotel rooms, small offices, etc).

Class 5 (PEI 5) All Residential and busy Commercial

Ideally suited for all residential and heavy traffic commercial areas under normal foot traffic conditions (shopping centers, hotel lobbies, hospitals, and industrial applications). For very high traffic areas, consider an unglazed through-body color porcelain.

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Beyond Tradition: The Hardwood Flooring Advantage

The Hardwood Flooring Advantage

Hardwood flooring is looked upon by many as the flooring option that lends a sense of permanence to an interior. Whether it’s a residential interior, or an office installation, hardwood flooring adds an air of class, as well as structural strength. For these reasons, hardwood flooring remains to be a classic choice. It is a flooring option that has the advantage of tradition behind it; many cultures and civilizations have used hardwood flooring, and have done so for centuries. But, there are reasons beyond those of tradition that make hardwood flooring a practical and decorative choice.

One of the most attractive attributes of hardwood flooring is the range of options open to you in terms of finish, surface, stain, and species. All of these aspects play a very important role in determining the look of your flooring. With all of these choices, hardwood flooring is known to make for a unique effect in each interior. To this point, an advantage you will experience will most likely be all of the compliments you’ll get because of your hardwood flooring for years to come.

Pre-finished and Unfinished Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring can be purchased in either prefinished or unfinished varieties and there are distinct advantages in both. For pre-finished hardwood flooring, the obvious advantage is that of convenience. No sanding is required for these types of hardwood floors, and therefore more time is saved on preparation as well a mess; sanding a hardwood floor involves both. Also, no time must be allowed for the finish on your hardwood flooring to dry, a period which can take a half a day to longer, depending on the kind of finish you use.

As far as unfinished hardwood flooring goes, the most compelling advantage is that of a more uniform seal. This is the reason why many professionals offer unfinished hardwood flooring to clients; it is easier to make sure that all of the minute gaps between the hardwood flooring boards are sealed when finish is applied on the whole surface of the flooring, and not on a board-by-board basis. This means extra protection against moisture, the hardwood floor’s most dangerous enemy. In this sense, all of the preparation and mess is worth the effort.

Hardwood Flooring Surfaces and Stains

The diversity of hardwood flooring extends not only to finish, but also in the range of surfaces and choices in stain available to the customer. Some hardwood flooring is planed evenly at the mill, offering a smooth, refined surface that many consumers have come to admire in hardwood flooring. But another variety of hardwood flooring that is becoming popular with flooring professionals and homeowners is that of the handscraped hardwood flooring. In this case, the hardwood plank is actually worked by hand to create a contoured, seasoned surface that gives the hardwood flooring a more rustic, lived-in appearance.

The variations in hardwood flooring are further extended by the variety of stains available as well. Some stains serve to bring out the natural range of color in a chosen species. Others effectively change the color altogether, allowing a consumer to enjoy the benefits offered by one species, while enjoying the color of another. Hardwood flooring is probably one of the more flexible choices with regard to appearance and personal taste.

Hardwood Flooring: the Luxury of Choice

Overall, hardwood flooring is not just an option which relies upon tradition, although hardwood flooring has been relied upon for centuries because it is such a durable material. What hardwood flooring offers is the luxury of choice and an ease of integration into an interior design. Along with the advantages of appearance, hardwood is and continues to be a choice in flooring that can add structural strength to a residence or office.

Popular Species of Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring “Dos” and “Don’ts”

Do:

Don’t:

Hardwood Installer Grand Rapid, Holland, Grand Haven, Muskegon

For a more comprehensive list of dos and don’ts, and for more details in general, it’s always best to talk to the professionals directly. Contractors and sales reps that specialize in hardwood flooring can often serve as excellent resources before, during, and after your hardwood flooring purchase.

Rob Jones is Communications Coordinator with BuildDirect, a leading online wholesaler of building products. Rob writes articles for commercial contractors and DIYers on features, installation, and maintenance of building materials used in commercial and residential projects. These articles focus on materials such as flooring, decking, roofing, and siding, and other related topics.

Choosing Ceramic Tile

The beauty of choosing ceramic tiles tile in Grand Rapids MI. for your remodeling project, is that tile comes in such a range of colors, shapes, sizes and textures even. Tile requires little maintenance and a selection of very long for any area of your home or even a business environment. Selected ceramic tiles can be very fun and exciting, if you do some preparation before visiting the showroom anchorbaytile.com product pages or other tiles.

Up front preparation

Since the front of the preparation is difficult, many people who want to locate to show the final assembly, helps to take some baby steps to steam before jumping in the selection process. For the first time you visit, or online tile showroom or a local tile store can be an overwhelming experience if little preparation has been done before the visit takes place.

Some things to consider in your own home first:

•    How much light is in the room where the ceramic tile will be installed?  Would darker or lighter colors be a better choice?

•    What is the color theme you hope to achieve when the room is done?  How does that theme work and flow with other rooms in the home?

•    What sort of design style suits your taste more than another?  Does your taste sway more towards a sleek contemporary and modern look or the light and bright hues of a country style?

After narrowing your choices in a theme and color selection to another, it helps to visit your local library and bookstore to browse available in many design magazines are published monthly. These publications are no images, no matter how each and every theme, color, texture, shape, size and appearance of various areas of media than the average American home. Purchase a few who have photos you want and crop images. After assembling a framework say Fifty seven rows of note that probably the taste for research seems to be the same in each image. Now you are ready to start shopping adventure!

Choosing a Size:

Ceramic tiles are available in various sizes. For a wall, countertop or backsplash, is common to use any of 4” x 4” or 6” x 6” tiles for these areas. Mosaics have gained much popularity in recent years, especially with the increased use of glass tiles in the home and in the pools. In installations of tiles, tiles have become more desirable for the simple reason that larger tiles are a more ambient look. Some floors are of various sizes that allow the creation of interesting patterns and design elements.

Color choices:

Of course, only you can decide what color is right for you, but here are some basic rules to remember: lighter colors to make room looks bright and open. Darker colors hide dirt and acclaimed. Neutral colors can change the accessories, but if you love a trendy color, it is! Just keep in mind is with you for a very long time.

Choosing a tiles texture:

Generally speaking, textured or matte finish tiles are less slippery than smooth or shiny tiles – something to keep in mind when choosing flooring tiles.  For wall, countertop, and backsplash installations, the slip factor is not a major concern so choose the ceramic tile that is most appealing to you.  For floor tile installations, common sense takes over and says to look for tiles that have some sort of texture and of course are not slippery to the touch.  Oftentimes, a ceramic tile’s “slip resistance” is measured by its “coefficient of friction,” which is provided in the technical spec sheet or sometimes on the box by the manufacturer.

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