Types of tiles
Ceramic tiles
When we think of tiles, ceramic often comes first in our mind. These tiles widely used in homes are made of a mix of clay, sand and water. After being molded into their final shape, the tiles are fired in a kiln—a type of oven used in the production process of tiles, which significantly reduces the amount of humidity in them. This process results in beautiful, colourful pieces of various shapes and sizes we can then use to enhance the beauty of our walls and floors.
Ceramic tiles are usually more affordable than others types of tiles. Their lower density makes them easier to cut and less heat-absorbent, making them ideal for hotter climates as they remain cooler for longer periods of time. However, due to their lower density and more porous nature, ceramic tiles tend to show greater variation in texture and have higher water absorption rates. As a result, they are more suitable for wall installation rather than flooring.
Porcelain tiles
Porcelain tiles are a specialized type of ceramic tile. While still being made out of clay, they are made from a much finer type that results in a more compact material when pressed into molds. Additionally, porcelain tiles are subjected to much higher pressures during production and fired in the kiln for longer periods of time and at higher temperatures. This extensive process eliminates almost all moisture in the tiles, creating harder and denser surfaces. As a result, porcelain tiles are more durable than ceramic tiles and are more appropriate for flooring applications.
Another advantage of porcelain tiles is that their production is regulated by the ASTM International standards (formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials). These standards, among other things, specify that porcelain tiles must have a water absorption rate of 0,5% or lower, making them ideal for bathrooms and other usage in humid and wet environments. If considering tiles for an outdoor use, porcelain tiles are an excellent option.
It’s important however to distinguish the two different types of porcelain tiles. The first one being glazed on their surfaces enhancing variety in colors and patterns. While glazing offers more opportunities in terms of creativity, it isn’t entirely safe from any damages that might occurs under heavy impact. To prevent any major consequences on the aesthetic appearance of the tile after a fissure, some glazed tiles are designed with a porcelain base that matches the tone of the glaze reducing the visibility of imperfections. Although glazed porcelain tiles are more durable than ceramic tiles, it is essential to verify the abrasion resistance of the considered tile before deciding on its application. This can be confirmed by verifying the tile’s score on the PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) scale, which ranges from PEI 1 to PEI 5, PE1 being the less resistant tiles and PE5 being the most resistant.
A porcelain tile can also be classified as a full-body tile. These tiles are made of a mixture of clay, sand and other natural minerals without a glaze on their surfaces making them increasingly more resistant to scratching and chipping. Their lack of glaze means that they are less slippery making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms floor as well as commercial flooring.
Porcelain tiles are therefore more durable than a ceramic tiles and can be used in a wider range of settings. However, due to their increased density, they can be more challenging to cut and are typically more expensive than ceramic tiles.
Zellige tiles
Zellige tiles are another type of tile made out of clay. However, their production process is far more artisanal. Traditionally, the clay used for zellige tiles is sourced from a city in northern Morocco called Fez. After being extracted, the clay is molded into blocks and hardened by the Moroccan sun. The blocks are then hand-cut into tiles and either dipped in a glaze by hand or left natural. The handmade glazing process offers a greater risk of variation in the thickness of the coating. Once glazed, the tiles are placed in a beehive kiln—an ancient, conical-shaped kiln—to dry. The heat within the kiln is traditionally fueled by olive branches. The placement of the tiles inside the kiln affects the color of each and every tile in the batch, adding to the uniqueness of every piece.
The handcrafted process of making zellige tiles results in a final product composed of individually unique tiles, each showcasing variations in color, glazing and texture. While some may view these variations as the weakness of zellige, we consider them to be the beauty of these tiles. If you appreciate materials that developed a patina over time, zellige tiles is a perfect choice for you. Although they may chip and crack, and their edges might not be perfectly even, the tiles undeniably reflect an exceptional craftsmanship that stands the test of time. It’s important to note that the color of the glaze on zellige tiles will vary depending on the type of lighting and time of day, particularly in natural light.
Because high-quality zellige tiles are handcrafted using traditional methods, they tend to be more expensive and will require a professional installer to ensure the quality of the final application. An experienced installer will carefully ‘map’ the tiles to blend their natural variations seamlessly across the overall surface. They will also apply a penetrating sealer or grout release to minimize the risk of grout staining the tiles during the installation. Though the installation process requires time and patience, the end result is a beautiful, timeless creation, well worth the money and effort.
Natural stone tiles
Natural stone, often used in slab form, is a timeless material that has been valued for centuries. When cut into tiles, it offers a more textured and refined alternative to slab surfaces, often lending a more classic, less contemporary aesthetic to a space. Natural stone tiles are available in a range of materials, including marble, travertine and limestone, and come in various finishes such as polished, honed, tumbled, flamed and brushed.
Natural stone tiles are more practical than slabs thanks to their reduced size and lighter weight, making them generally more affordable . They are also more suited for flooring, as the grout joints improve slip resistance, especially when treated with a sealant. The hard and durable material makes them ideal for both interior and exterior use. These tiles tends to stay cool, making them perfect for projects in warmer climates, while pairing well with a radiant heating system in colder environments.
The challenge with natural stone is that it will aged over time if not properly treated—yet this aging process is part of the charm and natural beauty of this material. However, it is generally more expensive than other type of tiles.
Cement tiles
In the mid-19th century, Spanish artisans pioneered the use of fine cement powder to create a new type of tile—cement tiles. By pressing the powder into molds and allowing the tiles to cure and harden, Catalan craftsmen developed a durable surface suitable in various settings for both walls and floors. Drawing inspiration from Moorish traditions, they introduced removable metal dividers called trepa, which were inserted in the molds. The divisions were filled with different pigments to create vibrant, long-lasting patterns. The renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi incorporated cement tiles into many of his projects, and after the 1867 International exposition in Paris, these tiles gained popularity across Europe and soon after spread to European colonies.
Cement tiles create a colourful, durable surface ideal for high-traffic areas, making them perfect for commercial projects. Their patterns and colors stand the test of time thanks to their pigments being mixed directly into the cement rather than being applied unto their surface only.
However, cement tiles will develop a patina over time, even when sealed. Their colors may darken or fade if outdoors and details may become less distinct. Because their surface is more porous than a glazed ceramic or porcelain tile, they are more susceptible to stains and chips. Like zellige tiles, cement tiles should be installed by an experienced professional who will carefully map them out to blend any variations in tone and saturation. Caution is also necessary when cleaning cement tiles to avoid any chemical stains. The beauty of cement tiles resides in their natural appearance, and when properly installed and maintained, they can last a lifetime.
Disclaimer
The information in this text is sourced from articles on Clé Tile, Centura and Home Depot websites, as well as from personal knowledge and discussions with professionals.