 |
| Floor Tiles and Wall Tiles Are Different |
|
| What many people fail to realize is that floor tiles and wall tiles very different in both thickness and finish. A tile meant for walls is thinner with a high gloss. A floor tile is thick with a matte finish. The tiles take a different thickness of grout and sealants. |
|
| Consider the Room Where You Will Install the Tiles |
|
| Get a sample of the ceramic tile from the store and lay the tiles without grout. This process is called dry lay. It will give you an idea of how the tiles will look in the room and with the surrounding rooms. |
|
| Make Sure that the Tiles have the Same Lot and Shade Number |
|
| This is perhaps the most overlooked tip when it comes to ceramic tile. The lot and shade number should be similar. This will ensure that the tiles have the same shade and thickness. This way the floor would look even and finished. |
|
| High Gloss Finish Tiles are Not Slip Resistant |
|
| These ceramic tiles are not suitable as floor tiles because of low slip resistance. These tiles provide very little grip and are thus suitable for countertops and walls only. High gloss tiles are suitable for bathrooms and showers because they allow excess moisture to slide off. |
|
| Check for the PEI Ratings for Floor Tiles |
|
| If you plan to use ceramic tile for floors, choose an appropriate PEI rated tile. PEI rate tiles according to the expected traffic on the floor. A higher rating means that the tile is suitable for heavy traffic areas like commercial buildings. |
|
| Consult a Professional |
|
| When in doubt, consult a professional. Even your local hardware store will guide you in proper selection of ceramic tile. Even if you don’t hire the professional, a contractor or an interior designer will offer you tips for proper selection and set up of the tiles. |
|
| An appropriate ceramic tile will not only enhance the beauty of a room but will also ensure safety. This is why it is very important to take some time in looking around for a good store specializing in ceramic tiles. |
| |
