The 101 of Ceramic Tiles

When it comes to choosing a tile that is versatile, functional and available in a range of styles, most people consider ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are designed in many different sizes, patterns and shapes in a myriad of styles. They can be used as wall tiles, floor tiles, kitchen splashbacks and even benchtops. They can be used for decorative embellishments or for practical purposes equally well. Moreover, ceramic tiles are known for their exceptional value for money.

It’s no wonder you’re interested to know more about ceramic tiles – they’re the most popular type of tile after all! As the head of purchasing at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, I have dealt with ceramic tiles in Perth for several years now. I’d say I know a fair bit about them. And today, I’ll share some of my knowledge with you.

So, continue reading this article to discover everything that you need to know about ceramic tiles. Read through till the end and you’ll be able to make an informed decision whether they’re right for you or not.

What are ceramic tiles?

Sure, you know that ceramic tiles are one of the most popular types of tiles. But what exactly are they? Ceramic tiles are made using porcelain, earthenware or other ceramic materials. These tiles are made of a mix of natural materials, including a lot of clay.

Ceramic tiles are manufactured by moulding and firing in a kiln at extremely high temperatures. Thanks to this particular manufacturing process, they can be produced in any shape, size, pattern or design. This type of manufacturing makes ceramic tiles incredibly durable and sturdy, making them suitable for a wide variety of applications.

Where can ceramic tiles be used?

Ceramic tiles are arguably the most versatile of all tiles. They can be used both in indoor as well as outdoor applications and both for decorative and practical purposes. They are most commonly used as floor tiles, wall tiles, splashback tiles and benchtop tiles.

Ceramic tiles are available in various styles and endless patterns and colours. You will find a design to perfectly complement any home décor or furnishing item you own. And, if you choose your tiles wisely, you can even define the overall look of your space.

Ross’s Discount Home Centre offers an extensive selection of ceramic tiles in Perth. Whether you’re looking for ceramic tiles in classic, modern or contemporary styles, you’ll find one to meet your design needs in our store. With us around, you’ll find the perfect combination of ceramic tiles for designing your home just the way you want to!

The difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles

Customers often ask me if there is any difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles. Technically, porcelain may be a ceramic material, but there are some differences between ceramic and porcelain tiles.

Porcelain tiles are usually manufactured using more refined materials than ceramic tiles. They are also moulded and fired at a much higher temperature, making them more durable and harder than ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles are also generally more water-resistant than most ceramic tiles.

There is also a visual difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles. In patterned porcelain tiles, the pattern goes through the tile, while in patterned ceramic tiles, the pattern remains on the glaze. This, however, does not make much of a difference after installation.

Types of ceramic tiles

Ceramic tiles can be classified into various types depending on glazing or size. In terms of glazing, ceramic tiles are available as glazed tiles and unglazed tiles. In terms of size, ceramic tiles are classified into mosaic tiles, wall tiles and floor tiles.

Glazed ceramic tiles are the most commonly available type of ceramic tile. Such a tile includes one or two glazed layers, which are pressed and baked onto the tile surface. They are available in various finishes, including matte, high gloss, non-slip and abrasive finishes and can be characterised by their smooth finish, which is resistant to nicks and scratches. Glazed ceramic tiles are ideally suited for use in indoor applications.

Unglazed ceramic tiles may not be as popular as glazed ceramic tiles, but they are also commonly used. As the name suggests, they do not have a layer of glazing, which therefore gives them a rougher surface than their glazed counterparts. Unglazed ceramic tiles are ideal for use in outdoor applications.

Ceramic mosaic tiles can be glazed or unglazed ceramic tiles that measure 2×2 square inches or less. While mosaic tiles are commonly available in square shapes, they can also be found in other geometric shapes, such as rectangles and hexagons, which you’ll find in the range we stock at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. Ceramic mosaic tiles are best suited for feature walls and splashbacks. (Read our post, The Hottest Kitchen Splashback Trends, for the latest kitchen tile trends.)

Ceramic wall tiles can be manufactured in any size, but they are commonly 4.25×4.25 square inches. They can also be found in rectangular variants, and they are suitable for use in kitchen and bathroom walls. They are available both in glazed and unglazed variants.(Read our post, Bathroom Tile Trends You’ll Want to Follow!, for the latest bathroom tile trends.)

Finally, ceramic floor tiles are much larger than other ceramic tiles, and they can go up to 24×24 square inches. Available in glazed, unglazed and slip-resistant finishes, these tiles are suitable for use both in indoor and outdoor applications.

PEI ratings of ceramic tiles

Before you purchase ceramic tiles in Perth, it is also a good idea to know about their PEI ratings. PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) ratings are an indicator of the strength of glaze applied to a ceramic tile. PEI ratings indicate the wear and tear resistance of ceramic tiles, and they apply both to wall and floor tiles. The PEI rating of a ceramic tile can range from 0-5.

A ceramic tile with a PEI rating of 0 indicates that it cannot sustain any foot traffic. These tiles are recommended for use as wall tiles in commercial or residential applications. They must never be used as floor tiles.

Ceramic tiles with a PEI rating of 1 can be used in areas of light foot traffic. These tiles can be used for flooring in areas with stocking or low barefoot traffic, such as bathrooms. They are also suitable for use as wall tiles.

A ceramic tile with a PEI rating of 2 can sustain light to medium foot traffic. They can be used for flooring in medium foot traffic areas that are protected from scratching agents and abrasives.

Ceramic tiles with a PEI rating of 3 and 4 can be used for flooring areas with medium to heavy traffic. They are suitable for use both indoors and outdoors across residential and commercial applications.

Ceramic tiles with PEI ratings of 5 are suitable for heavy-duty applications. They are ideal for flooring in commercial applications that experience heavy foot traffic, such as supermarkets, shopping malls and airports.

How to clean ceramic tiles

While ceramic tiles are highly durable and sturdy, they require care and maintenance. Thankfully, they are pretty easy to clean.

For starters, ceramic tiles can be kept moderately clean simply by sweeping or vacuuming regularly. However, they must also be mopped clean once in a while to prevent sand and grit from damaging the surface. Make sure to use a mild cleaning disinfectant to mop ceramic tiles clean every once in a while. This will also remove most grime and stains. Tougher stains can be removed with commercial cleaners or soda water.

Sometimes, ceramic tiles may be clean, but the grouting between tiles may be dirty. Grout is very porous, and it always accumulates dust and dirt. Fortunately, there are several grout cleaners available in the market. You can use such products to clean grout between tiles once every year.

Where to buy ceramic tiles in Perth

There you have it – that’s everything you need to know about ceramic tiles before you buy them. And you don’t have to look too far to find high-quality ceramic tiles in Perth. You’ll find just what you need right here at our store!

We offer a very wide range of ceramic tiles spanning several designs, styles and colours. Of our range, I’d like you to consider our Celina Grey, Matang Zinc, Balkan Brown, Charm Classico and Matang Light Bianco tiles. These are 5 of our most popular ceramic tiles – you won’t go wrong in choosing any of them for your new home or renovation.

Conclusion:

Ceramic tiles are the most popular type of tile all over the world. They are versatile, functional, durable and are available in a range of patterns, styles, designs, colours and shapes. They are specially manufactured from ceramic materials by moulding and firing at high temperatures.

Ceramic tiles can be used as wall tiles, floor tiles, splashbacks and even benchtops. They are available as glazed and unglazed tiles and mosaic, wall and floor tiles. The PEI rating of a ceramic tile indicates its wear and tear resistance and thus indicates its suitability for use in a particular application.

For the best quality ceramic tiles in Perth at competitive prices, look no further and contact us at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. Shop online or visit us in Guildford to check out our range of ceramic tiles in person!