The Pros and Cons of Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile are made from a mixture of clay, sand, and other natural materials. They are fired at high temperatures to create a hard, strong surface that can be used for floors, walls, countertops and backsplashes.

In this article at SAVU LLC we will discuss the pros and cons of ceramic tile.

Ceramic tile pros:

Here are some of the main benefits of ceramic tiles:

1. Durable

Ceramic tiles are known for their durability because they are fired at high temperatures, which makes them hard and strong. This means that they can withstand regular use and foot traffic without showing signs of wear or damage.

2. Easy to clean

Ceramic tiles are easy to clean because they have a smooth, nonporous surface. This means that they do not easily absorb dirt, grime, and other types of stains, which makes them easy to wipe down and keep clean. This makes them a perfect choice for a kitchen backsplash project.

3. Resistant to water and stains

Ceramic tile do not absorb liquids easily, which makes them less susceptible to damage from spills. Additionally, the smooth, nonporous surface of ceramic tiles makes them difficult for stains to penetrate. Overall, these properties make ceramic tiles an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathroom floors, and entryways, where spills and stains are common.

4. Wide range of colors, styles, and textures

Ceramic tiles are available in a wide range of colors, styles, and textures. Additionally, ceramic tiles can be glazed or unglazed and can be polished or textured. This means that you can find ceramic tiles to fit any design, from traditional to modern.

The major tile manufacturers in the U.S. include:

Armstrong offers one of the largest ranges of ceramic tile that can fit any budget.
Daltile offers ceramic tile that mimic pricey marble, at a much lower price.
Mohawk Ceramic Tile offers a wide range of products for both residential and commercial applications.
Marazzi Tile is a great tile manufacturer that offers a wide range of high-end tiles in all categories.
Shaw Floors is known for offering a good selection of both ceramic and natural stone tiles.

Ceramic tile cons:

Here are some potential drawbacks ceramic tiles:

1. Can break or chip easily

Because they are made from a relatively brittle material, ceramic tile can break or chip easily. This means that extra care must be taken when cutting, handling, and installing ceramic tiles to avoid damaging them.

2. Can be slippery when wet

Ceramic tiles are known for their smooth, nonporous surface, which makes them easy to clean and maintain. However, this smooth surface can also make them slippery when they are wet, which can be a safety hazard in some cases. This is particularly true in areas where water is likely to be present, such as bathrooms and kitchens. To reduce the risk of slipping on ceramic tiles, it is important to dry the tiles thoroughly after cleaning or mopping them, and to use mats or rugs in high-traffic areas to provide additional traction. Additionally, you can choose ceramic tiles with a textured or matte finish, which can provide better traction than smooth tiles.

3. Can be cold

Ceramic tiles can be cold and hard, which may not be comfortable to walk on or stand on for long periods of time. This is particularly true in rooms or areas where you are likely to be barefoot, such as bathrooms and entryways. This can be fixed by adding a heating underlayment system.

4. May not be suitable for outdoor use

Ceramic tiles are suitable for a wide range of applications, including flooring, wall coverings, fireplaces and backsplashes. However, they may not be suitable for outdoor use in cold climates because they can be damaged by freezing temperatures. Ceramic tiles can expand and contract as the temperature changes. If the temperature drops below freezing, the water in the tiles can freeze and expand, which can cause the tiles to crack or break.

In conclusion: ceramic tiles are a popular choice for flooring and surfaces because they are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to water and stains. However, they can be brittle, slippery when wet, and may not be suitable for outdoor use in cold climates.

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