How to choose the right floor tiles - advice and recommendations from experts. How to choose a floor tile: expert advice What tiles are best for a small kitchen
There are no universal finishing materials, and you need to know how to choose a tile for the kitchen so that it fully meets the tasks facing it. After all, the requirements for tiles for decorating an apron above the workplace are slightly different than for flooring. A tile for decorative panel on the wall is selected according to a different principle than the material for facing the countertop. Therefore, the decision about which tile to choose for the kitchen must be made depending on the intended place of its use.
Carefully study the technical characteristics of the material, read the passport and the information indicated on the package. Also, be sure to make sure you have a hygiene certificate, which confirms the safety of the purchased tile for life and health. After all, the selection of tiles for the kitchen is carried out taking into account the fact that materials for living quarters must be flawless from an environmental point of view.
Ceramic flooring is a convenient, practical and profitable option for floor finishing. But when the question arises of what is better in the kitchen: tile or linoleum, the choice is often made in favor of the latter. This is primarily because tiles are considered cold materials. At the moment this problem can be easily eliminated with the help of "warm floor" technology. Conventional ceramic tiles are perfectly suited for use in a heated floor system, because it has a fairly high thermal conductivity.
Another negative quality that limits the use of tiles for floor decoration is its slipperiness. How to choose a tile for the kitchen so that the floor is safe in this regard? Avoid glazed coatings, because moisture can turn a glossy floor surface into a real ice rink. Give preference to tiles with a matte, ribbed surface.
Which tile to choose for the kitchen floor: specifications
For flooring, manufacturers offer a large selection ceramic tiles.
But it must be borne in mind that the kitchen floor is subjected to heavy stress every day, especially in the area of \u200b\u200bthe stove and sink.
It gets dirty faster than in other rooms and, accordingly, it is washed more often. All this puts forward a number of specific requirements for the kitchen floor covering: it must have increased strength.
For the kitchen, tiles of at least III class of hardness according to the European classification of PEI or at least 5 class in accordance with GOST are preferable. Resistance to acids and alkalis must also be high - class AA or B.
Floor Tile Design
We must not forget that the choice of ceramic tiles for flooring depends on the overall stylistic solution of the kitchen. Of course, the color and texture of the flooring should be in harmony with the rest of the decoration of the room. But it is necessary to take into account a few more points.
On a glossy surface, stains and small debris will be very noticeable.
While the matte and grainy texture of ceramics will not only give the room a cozier look, but also perfectly hide various dirt. The variegated color will also mask some imperfections.
As for the shape, the choice of tiles for the kitchen does not have to be limited to the traditional square or rectangle. You can experiment with hexagonal or octagonal tiles. Manufacturers also offer designs with rounded edges.
If you use small floor tiles for cladding, then the room will look more spacious. But it is more difficult to lay it because it is difficult to achieve even seams. Mosaic tiles are best used in small pieces as a finish. You should not lay complex drawings on the floor - they are more suitable for rooms with a large area, for example, halls.
The working area in the kitchen is often decorated with a tile backsplash. This material reliably protects walls from splashing water, heat, grease and soot. In addition, an elegant apron can become a bright decorative accent and decorate even the most modest kitchen. How to choose a ceramic tile so that it meets all the above requirements, and in addition, provides easy maintenance of the wall surface?
The choice of tiles for the apron
The work area needs regular cleaning with detergents. The selection of ceramic tiles for the backsplash should be based on this factor. Tiles require a minimum porosity, as well as a dense and uniform enamel coating.
Resistance to chemical attack is indicated by letter marking on the packaging. For our purposes, tiles with the AA symbol are suitable, which means a high level of resistance to aggressive substances.
But high strength for wall tiles is not critical, since there are practically no mechanical loads here. Pay special attention to such an indicator as the thermal resistance of the material. This is important for tiles above the work area, especially if you are using a gas stove for cooking. Glaze on quality tiles withstands heating up to 125 degrees.
Kitchen backsplash tile design
For an interior with a discreet design, choose a solid color tile that matches the rest of the kitchen. If it is difficult to find the desired shade when choosing ceramic tiles, make a surface working area white - it is universal and will suit almost any color scheme.
An interesting option looks when the color of the apron is chosen in contrast to the kitchen set.
For example, a combination of orange and light green or coral and yellow will look fresh and unusual. But before choosing brightly colored tiles for the kitchen, soberly assess its size. Remember that such color solutions require a lot of space, otherwise the room will look cramped and too colorful. This rule also applies to large drawings and large format tiles.
And how to choose a tile for the kitchen if it is small in size? Designers recommend decorating the apron and walls in one color, preferably beige, cream, light gray or sand. In this case, it is worth giving up gloss, because shiny surfaces visually reduce space.
Do not overload the surface of the working area with decorative inserts from textured tiles. Oily plaque will accumulate in the relief of such tiles.
Ceramic tile countertop: pros and cons
Ceramics are not often used for countertops. Meanwhile, the tiled countertop looks no less worthy than models made of natural stone, agglomerate or solid wood. Moreover, its production will be cheaper. But do not forget that the correct choice of ceramic tiles determines how strong and durable the desktop surface will be.
This finishing method has certain drawbacks: numerous seams make it difficult to maintain, and also require regular special processing, because grout changes color quickly.
The countertop occupies a fairly large area, so its design has a noticeable effect on the perception of the entire kitchen interior.
The tile makes it possible to create a variety of design options. Most often, the work surface of the table is tiled with the same tiles as the kitchen apron. This technique allows you to create a single space and looks harmonious.
Summing up the story about which tile is best for the kitchen, the following must be said. Sometimes consumers go to extremes: wanting to save money, they buy cheap goods from dubious manufacturers or, in search of quality, overpay for a well-known brand. Both solutions can hardly be called reasonable. We advise you to pay attention to the tiles of the middle price category, among which you can surely choose worthy samples.
The choice of floor tiles for the kitchen is a responsible business. Much depends on how seriously you take it - both how the entire interior will look like, and how long the coating will last. In order for a new renovation to bring only joy, think in advance which tiles are best to put on the kitchen floor, taking into account their quality and appearance.
What to look for when choosing a tile?
The kitchen is a specific room. Here often unfavorable for various materials conditions are an increase in the level of humidity, temperature changes, mechanical and chemical influences. All this must be taken into account. For the kitchen floor, tiles of an increased wear resistance class are best suited - they can be distinguished by the PEI-III and PEI-IV marking. And the resistance of the material to the effects of chemistry is indicated by the letter code AA.
In addition, consider the nature of the tile coverage. It is best to choose non-slip surfaces - as a rule, they have a matte texture or relief. There are also semi-matt types - partially glossy. Such tiles reflect light, but do not slip.
Of course, attention should be paid not only to the practical, but also to the aesthetic side of the issue. And here it all depends on your preferences and general design solution... Consider in advance what the final look of the kitchen will be. This will help you create a harmonious atmosphere.
beige patterned tiles
Varieties of floor tiles in the kitchen
All tiles can be divided into types according to the type of material and design. As mentioned above, it is necessary to consider both when choosing. Next, we will consider the most popular solutions today.
Choice of tile material
Ceramics and porcelain stoneware
The most popular types of tiles today are porcelain stoneware and ceramic tiles. Both of these materials are great for covering kitchen floors. They have a number of differences. So, porcelain stoneware tiles are more modern. It is characterized by increased strength and wear resistance, does not slip, but is heavy and requires special skills when laying. Ceramics are more affordable and lightweight. It is also easier to install, although in this case, some knowledge of the process is also required. In addition, tiles are less durable and often slippery. Regardless of which of these two types of tiles you choose, with careful treatment it can last up to 15 years.
Ceramics and porcelain stoneware have such a high degree of popularity, since a wide variety of options can be found among the range. In addition to design, tiles also differ in the nature of the surface. It can be matte, glossy, semi-matte or textured. For kitchen flooring, whatever slips the least is best. And this quality is possessed by textured, embossed surfaces. However, when choosing, be sure to pay attention to the nature of the relief. If it is too deep and convoluted, it is likely that dirt will collect in the grooves. Therefore, it is advisable to be able to touch the tiles before buying.
Natural stone tiles
For floor on the kitchen will do and natural stone tiles. It allows you to create a variety of compositions, fit without seams, and is durable. However, it is important to understand that such material requires special care, only an experienced specialist can install it, and the price of natural tiles is quite high.
Glass Floor Tiles
The latest technologies suggest using glass tiles not only on the walls, but also on the floor. As for the kitchen, in this case, such material is very relevant. Glass is environmentally friendly, has excellent water repellency and is resistant to frequent exposure to chemicals when cleaning. Floor tiles are made taking into account the specifics and have a special non-slip coating. This material is strong and durable, but today it has a very limited range.
Selection of floor tiles by color and design
The question of which tiles is best to put on the kitchen floor so that the whole interior looks harmonious is very extensive. When solving it, you must take into account the general style and future appearance of the room. There are some simple rules to help you make the right choice. The main one is as follows - there should be one dominant in the interior. This means that if you choose contrasting tiles, apply the patchwork technique when laying out, use other ways to make the floor bright, then everything else should only serve as a background. And vice versa as well.
The second rule concerns the choice of color. It is desirable that it repeats one of the shades used in the interior. Gray and beige are versatile. White and black tiles will also be good backgrounds, but keep in mind that they will look more expressive and contrasting.
Among other things, it is important that the tiles match the overall style. So, classic design trends, as well as country and Provence, involve the use of wood and stone textures. It is best to stick to natural colors. Modern design allows for bright colors and bold solutions. For a high-tech kitchen, black, gray or white tiles of a large size and monochromatic are best suited. There are also ornaments that are well suited to different stylistic directions. Therefore, it is important to determine your preferences in advance and study in more depth exactly the style that you like. Keep in mind that nowadays the most common stylizations are combining several directions at once.
Approaching the choice of tiles responsibly and thoroughly, you will fully justify the time spent on studying the topic. Indeed, as a result, you will receive a high-quality and attractive renovation that will delight you and your loved ones over the next few years.
Ceramic tiles are one of the most comfortable finishing materials, they are practical and suitable for finishing various premises, besides, it can be used for both indoor and outdoor work. Other advantages of ceramic tiles are their properties such as durability, versatility, ease of maintenance and, of course, aesthetic appearance. Today, there are a great many companies that produce tiles, collections of ceramic tiles are also diverse, so choosing and buying turns into a difficult task. How not to be mistaken in choosing this finishing material? And what are the criteria for choosing it?
Criteria for choosing ceramic tiles
1) Climatic conditions are one of the main criteria, especially if the tiles are intended for outdoor robots or building facades. It is necessary to understand what is the degree of its frost resistance.
2) Another criterion is the place of application. The tile should be chosen depending on which room should be tiled with ceramic tiles - kitchen, bathroom, hallway, etc., as well as the floor or walls in these rooms. There is a special marking to determine the purpose of ceramic tiles. The tiles are also divided into groups depending on the degree of wear, resistance and resistance to various chemicals. Marking is a pictogram that is applied to the packaging
3) The tile is also chosen according to the color palette, texture and pattern. So, for example, there are wood-like ceramic tiles that imitate parquet, or stone-like ceramic tiles. Of course, these are secondary criteria, and they move to this step only when the first two are taken into account.
4) The last is the size of the tiles, for example, large tiles are chosen for the floor, and a more compact or even small size is suitable for the wall.
Consider some of the meanings of the pictograms
- There are pictograms in the form of a human foot. This means that the ceramic tiles are for the floor, and that they are intended for floor cladding, and if the background under the feet is shaded, then the tiles have increased resistance to abrasion, such as can be used in shops, offices and other premises that are subject to increased wear.
- If the outline of a human hand is drawn on the pictogram, then this tile is intended for cladding walls and other surfaces that do not accept any load.
- The snowflake pictogram indicates the frost resistance of the tile and its resistance to low temperatures.
- There is also a fire symbol with different numbers. This is the number of firing times that the tile has gone through.
- Symbol A means that ceramic tiles are made more than modern methods with a more accurate slicing method.
- Symbol B indicates the worst quality, but it is also cheaper.
- If the marking consists of several identical pictograms at once, then this tile is of increased quality.
Other additional designations can be used with markings A and B, such as:
AI, BI, which means that this tile is intended for outdoor decoration. Basically, this marker denotes ceramic facade tiles.
Tiles marked AII, BII are also suitable for outdoor cladding, although they have low moisture resistance.
And those tiles that are marked with the AIII, BIII sign can only be used for interior finishing works.
But according to the degree of resistance to wear, all types of ceramic tiles intended for flooring can be divided into five main groups. Ceramic floor tiles are marked with PEI symbols.
Group 1. This is a tile that can be used in the bedroom or in the bath.
Group 2. Tiles of this group are used for facing offices and living rooms.
Group 3. This group is suitable for finishing a kitchen or hallway
Group 4 and 5. Since the tiles of these groups are the most resistant to abrasion, it is advisable to use them in public places with a high degree of movement, as well as exposure to chemical and abrasive substances.
When choosing ceramic tiles, you should also pay attention to their packaging in order to find out information about the trade mark, country of origin, square meters and the number of tiles in the package, as well as about the color and grade. The packaging must also bear the aforementioned pictograms and designations of the groups to which this tile belongs.
It is imperative to take into account that the floor tiles for the bathroom or hallway should in no case be slippery, as it can become traumatic if moisture gets on it. The best tile choices for these spaces are those with a rough or matte finish. But for the bathroom walls better fit tiles with great resistance to chemicals, since the walls of bathtubs are most often exposed to various cleaning, detergents and cosmetics. The same can be said for kitchen tiles, both for floor and wall tiles. But here they are exposed to more aggressive agents, so the requirements for them should be stricter than for bathrooms.
Choosing a color scheme suitable for a particular room
And only after you have decided on the purpose and quality characteristics of ceramic tiles, you can tackle the aesthetic side: design, pattern, colors and sizes of tiles. It is also important here to carefully analyze the conditions of the room for which the tiles are purchased. Especially you need to pay attention to such characteristics as lighting, the general color palette, the size of the room itself, its style. For example, tiles with a large pattern or large sizes are not suitable for a small room. Or tiles in light colors can visually expand a small space, and a vertical pattern will increase the height of the walls. On the other hand, scratches or mother-in-law will be more noticeable on light-colored tiles, so it is better to choose dark-colored tiles for the floor in the hallway.
How to calculate the required amount of ceramic tiles
In order to calculate the required number of tiles, it is necessary to measure the exact area of \u200b\u200bthe surface to be finished, and also take into account which tool will be used to lay the tiles. Do not forget about the drawing, sometimes to achieve symmetry you have to take a little more than it comes out according to calculations. For greater confidence, it is better to buy 10% more than the required amount, since in any batch, even the highest quality ceramic tiles, let us assume a certain percentage of rejects, besides this, do not forget about possible damage when cutting the material to the desired size.
1) The reverse side of the tile must be flat, without any cracks. General geometry of regular shape, without bulges and sticking. A level surface can be checked by attaching two tiles to each other, while there should be no gaps or gaps between them.
2) To avoid the incident of color or pattern mismatch for the entire purchased batch, do not be lazy and compare them, taking one tile from different packages.
3) Before using ceramic tiles for cladding, you need to check them for water resistance, this is done as follows: put the tiles in water for 10-12 hours, and if microcracks form on it, then it is better to return such tiles to the seller.
Manufacturers of luxury ceramic tiles
Today, there are many domestic and foreign companies producing ceramic tiles. However, Italian ceramic tiles, as before, are considered the best from both quality and aesthetic points of view. Most beautiful houses world are finished with ceramic tiles from Italian manufacturers. At the same time, there are many Italian companies that have long become brands and produce only luxury ceramic tiles. Versace, Viva ceramica, Caesar, Capri, Casabella and others.
A little history of Italian tiles
The history of Italian ceramics goes back several centuries. The origins of its production go back to the beginning of the tenth century. The first Italian factories for the production of ceramic tiles were located on the island of Mallorca, as high-quality raw materials were mined here - a special kind of clay, with the help of which they produced highly porous ceramic tiles.
For the first time, this tile was intended only for facing churches and temples, later it began to be used among the nobility. The wealthiest citizens of Italian cities began to use tiles to decorate their castles. But modern Italian tiles began to be produced in the early 20th century. Experienced Italian ceramic masters do not forget about the traditions of the past, but at the same time are constantly looking for new design and technological solutions. All this leads to the fact that when we hear the words “ceramic tiles from Italy”, we immediately present the tiles of the highest quality.
Thanks to the merit of ancestors, Italy is a trendsetter in the world of ceramics. New ceramic tiles by Italian masters, presented in brilliant collections, amaze with their sophistication and unexpected flight of designer imagination, sometimes we forget that this is just ceramic tile, so much it resembles paintings or living natural landscapes. Warm ceramic tiles, imitating desert sand, can instantly transport you many kilometers away to the distant and sultry Sahara. Give yourself comfort and a fairy tale by choosing the best quality tiles for your home.
Ceracasa damore ceramic tiles - a wide range of Spanish tiles, high quality.
When choosing a floor covering for walkways and kitchens, we always follow the simplest criteria: ease of maintenance, aesthetics and durability. Ceramic products are deservedly considered one of the most successful materials in this respect. And the number of designs, formats, textures can be called outrageous.
Ceramic floor tiles (Greek plinthos) are thin and durable plates made of baked clay mass. Its basic components are white clay, sand, flux, pigments and some other components.
Tiles are better than other finishing materials in the kitchen. Its advantages include:
Before choosing a tile for the floor in the kitchen, find out about its shortcomings. The cons:
Thus, the pros of floor ceramics far outweigh the cons. So is it worth looking for an alternative if there is an opportunity to purchase tiles ?!
Tile characteristics
According to EN ISO 13006 "Ceramic tiles - definitions, characteristics, acceptance criteria and labeling" and GOST 6787-2001 "Ceramic tiles for floors", there is a whole class of indicators that together determine the suitability of tiles for use in certain conditions. These include
Forming and water absorption method
Note that the Russian glazed and unglazed floor tiles are produced only by pressing. Therefore, it is better for the kitchen to purchase domestic products under protective glaze.
Bending resistance
It is the limit value of the static load applied to 3 points of one element that the test piece can withstand without breaking. Measured in N / mm² (ISO 1054-4 standard), for tiles it has the following minimum values:
That is, for example, kitchen tiles of category BIb can withstand a load of up to 270 kg / cm2 or 27 MPa.
Surface hardness
This is the ability of the surface to be resistant to scratching and other damaging factors. Typically, the well-known mineral hardness scale MOHS is used. For glazed tiles, the optimum value is at least 5.
That is, the higher the indicator, the lower the risk of damage from falling objects, heels, animal claws, etc. A competent craftsman will select a floor material with a surface hardness level of at least 6 units.
Resistant to temperature extremes
This is the ability of good enamel not to crack or change with a sharp change in temperature (temperature shock). If you choose an unsuitable material, then due to drops of hot oil, boiling water or concentrated detergent on the surface, swelling or a network of small cracks may form at the contact point.
Chemical resistance
This parameter reveals the ability of a surface to withstand chemicals, including household chemicals, staining liquids or products, salts, acids. To determine, a whole series of tests is carried out on the contact of tiles and an aggressive environment.
Frost resistance
This is the ability of a ceramic product not to deteriorate when immersed in water and cooled below 0 ° C. It is measured by the number of freezing and thawing cycles, it directly depends on the water absorption coefficient - the lower it is, the higher the frost resistance.
Abrasion resistant
This test for unglazed tiles is carried out using cast silica (synthetic abrasive). The value of the volume of the erased surface of the product obtained after the tests allows assigning a certain class of use to the tiles according to UPEC. For glazed products, another indicator is used - PEI.
If you try to save money and put tiles of PEI I classes on the kitchen floor, then you can rest assured that the coating will serve properly at best for about a year, or even less.
Slip resistance
This so-called safety criterion is not mandatory, but for some series of tiles it is considered necessary (swimming pools, changing rooms, public places, etc.), therefore manufacturers try to indicate the anti-skid coefficient on the packaging.
In fact, this indicator would be nice to take into account if you plan to lay tiles in the hallway of a private house (without a “dressing room”) or in the hall of a public building. After all, in winter, snow that sticks to shoes melts quickly in the warmth. And it is very easy to slip on the resulting puddles. This problem is especially typical for glossy tiles with a polished surface. Matte products are safer in this regard in the kitchen, hallway or hallway.
Matte tiles in the interior.
For all of the above characteristics, their own pictograms have been developed.
A set of basic tile pictograms.
The kitchen, hallway, hall, corridor - these are all places with an average level of traffic, liquids, fine sand or substances that form a slippery surface may appear on the floor. Therefore, you need a tile with the following values:
- water absorption coefficient up to 3%;
- hardness above 5 units;
- classes AA or A;
- abrasion index PEI ≤II;
- safety category - R9-10.
Design features
Floor ceramics are a great tool for realizing creative ideas. There is no other range of flooring materials with so many options. Even in linoleum, let alone a traffic jam, parquet board or laminate.
Perhaps the most difficult thing is choosing a decor and a suitable shade. There is no universal advice, but we can suggest a number of parameters to consider when buying:
Product format
When choosing a tile, keep in mind that each factory produces it in its own sizes. Dimensions can vary from 1.2x1.2 to 120x120 cm. As a rule, a standard design technique is used - the smaller the dimensions of the room, the smaller the elements should be. But if the tile is smooth, without a pronounced texture or pattern, then large-format slabs can be used in a small corridor or hallway.
When choosing, craftsmen prefer a more practical approach - the less waste remains at a certain size, the better. And cheaper, and faster laying speed.
As for the thickness of products, it usually starts from 7 mm. The thicker, the more weight the finished coating will withstand. This must be taken into account if you plan to install heavy cabinets.
Style and colors
Ceramics is perceived as a decorative element. If you plan to lay out a country-style room with tiles, then the best solution would be to design a tile for a stone, wood without gloss, or with a slight lapping.
The kitchen in classic English style will be decorated with light floor products in white, beige, brown and peach tones small size - no more than 45x45. And if the room is designed in high-tech trends? In this case, it will take a long time to pick up. It should be a rectified imitation of metal, plastic or glass that can be laid out using a seamless method. It will look monolithic and really beautiful.
There are interesting options with so-called "panels" or "decors" made using digital printing techniques, silk-screen printing, etc. These are tiles, borders, small inserts and "pencils" decorated with various patterns, from which a certain drawing is made. They are complemented by basic or background ceramics.
A tiled "carpet" or "walkway" can be used to zone the kitchen, separate the dining room from the cooking area, or set a different mood for individual territories. Color matching is very important here. For example, to create coziness, the base should be neutral beige, ocher or warm honey. Bright shades with a transition from one to another intensify the light, bring cheerful notes to the interior, and, on the contrary, black and white tones add rigor.
Black and white floor.
A combination of textures.
But that's not all. No wonder ceramics is considered multifunctional. The relief and texture of the products create a three-dimensional look. Combinations of textures and various surfaces help to avoid linearity and uniformity. With the right approach, the finish turns out to be dynamic, comfortable for perception.
Soiling degree
Practicality is important for any housewife, no matter what kind of tile is laid, expensive or cheap. Frequent cleaning of floors is exhausting and beautiful design is no longer a joy. If you want to white color, then try to choose it not in a pure design, but with additions in the form of gray or beige stripes imitating marble, textiles, etc. By the same principle, you need to select dark shades - dust is always strongly visible on them.
Marbled.
Tile layout
It is very important to design the intended pattern of the tiled layout on paper in advance. According to your drawing, it will be easy for the master to achieve the desired result.
In the development of the design, catalogs from the manufacturer can help, in which optimal, harmonious variations are proposed. Or use special design programs that can be found on the Internet or downloaded from the official website of well-known factories. They not only offer layout options, but at the same time calculate the amount of material required, taking into account waste.
Basic layout options.
Layout similar to parquet.
Many layouts are known. These are basic, modular, diagonal, linear, with or without seam, combinatorial, herringbone for parquet and many others. The choice of the appropriate installation method depends on the product format and design. But the most important thing is your preference and vision of the interior. Show your maximum imagination. For example, you can complement a simple kitchen set with an exquisite floor panel. Or with tiles in calm, unobtrusive colors to emphasize luxurious furniture, walls decorated with expensive frescoes. In any case, everything is in your hands.
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Among the wide variety of flooring materials, ceramic tiles occupy a special place. This material has been tested over the years and gives no reason to doubt its advantages, especially in rooms with special operating conditions and microclimate. Today's article will talk about the advantages of tiles, how to choose floor tiles, as well as about alternative types of tile materials.
There are many options for floor tiles, differing in the material of manufacture. But ceramic tiles are in the lead for many reasons.
The main thing is that it has no restrictions on its use in premises of any purpose and differs in completely different ways:
- Given the surface to be tiled, the tiles can be wall or floor. The first is thinner, the second is more durable and wear-resistant.
- Given the operating conditions, different requirements are imposed on ceramics - it can be used indoors and outdoors. Outdoor ceramic tiles should have a low level of water absorption, be resistant to cracking and be frost-resistant.
- According to their composition, the tiles are divided into ceramic and porcelain stoneware.
Methods for making ceramics
There are two ways to produce tiles: by pressing and extrusion. In the first case, durable, aesthetically pleasing products are obtained. In the second case, the tile is squeezed out through the extruder under high pressure.
For the production of glazed tiles, the double firing method (bicottura) is used. Using the method of pressing, a tile of the required shape is formed from a clay mixture, then it is fired and glazed, and then fired again. This type of tile is not very durable, and therefore is often used for interior work.
Technical qualities of floor ceramics
When choosing ceramics, they look at the grade of products, the higher it is, the higher the quality of the tile.
Tiles of I grade are characterized by uniformity, caliber, durability and correspond to other qualities declared by the manufacturer. Low-grade tiles have some defects - presence uneven corners or surface plane, not too clear pattern. Class II is assigned to products that have defects on only one side in the form of an uneven color, sagging and irregularities at the edges. If there are flaws on both sides, the tile is assigned grade III.
Despite this, even the third grade tile meets the operational requirements, allowing it to be used for cladding walls and floors in unheated rooms. A fairly low level of water absorption is provided by the porous and dense structure of the products, and their frost resistance.
Advantages and disadvantages of using ceramic tiles
Of the advantages of ceramics, the following can be noted:
- High strength.
- Environmental friendliness.
- Hygiene.
- Hypoallergenic.
- Moisture resistance.
- A wide range of colors and shapes.
- Bacteriological resistance.
- Fire resistance.
- Dielectricity.
- High coefficient of thermal conductivity, which is important for "warm" floors.
- Wear resistance.
- Color fastness before exposure to UV rays.
- Durability.
- A variety of shapes and sizes.
Of the shortcomings, first of all, the fragility and low sound insulation properties of the coating are noted. Also worth noting is the surface cold to the touch and difficult dismantling. In addition, if there is no experience in laying tiles, then it is better to entrust this business to professionals who know how to solve all sorts of small nuances that emerge in the course of work. The calculation formula looks like this: cost of work \u003d ½ the cost of material.
Tiled floor characteristics
Regardless of the material of manufacture, the floor covering must meet a certain set of operational requirements. As for ceramic tiles, the floor from it must have the following qualities:
- Wear resistance. The tile is chosen depending on the upcoming loads on the floor covering - the wear resistance class of the floor covering must correspond to the level of traffic in the room.
- In rooms where temperatures are expected to drop in winter period (unheated premises), pay great attention to frost resistance of the coating.
- Hypoallergenic. The material should not give off harmful substances and provoke the appearance of allergic reactions.
- Fire resistance. The material must not support and spread flame.
- Moisture resistance. This criterion is especially important when laying the floor in the bathroom, hallway and kitchen. The material should not absorb moisture and serve as a medium for the development of harmful microorganisms.
- Chemical and mechanical resistance.
- Anti-slip surface.
Types of ceramics
The surface structure of floor ceramics can be matt with a slight relief, imitating, for example, the surface of natural stone or smooth glossy. The rough, porous surface of matte products on the floor is pleasant to the touch and safe, as it provides an anti-slip effect and safety. Glossy products are more often used on walls - the glazed coating protects the image and makes them shiny. With the help of glossy tiles, you can visually make the room more voluminous.
Smooth surface tiles are among the most simple options, it is functional and practical - it is easy to install and keep clean. The smooth surface is able to retain heat well.
Mosaics are less common, but can still be found on the bathroom floor or other "wet" rooms. When using such a tile on the floor, you can create a unique original pattern, but you should carefully approach the material for grouting the joints, which are much more than when laying large-format floor tiles.
What to look for when choosing ceramic tiles
When choosing a tile, first of all, the purpose of the room in which it will be laid is taken into account, the conditions and intensity of the loads on the coating - the specifics of the bathroom and the hallway differ significantly from the living room or dining room. The material differs in several ways.
By structure
As previously noted, in rooms with high humidity, preference should be given to floor tiles with a matte rough face layer. A glossy floor surface, especially when water gets on it, becomes dangerous. Therefore, matte tiles are chosen in the bathroom and in the kitchen.
To size
This is an important parameter that affects the visual perception of the floor area and the room as a whole. Large tiles in a small room will visually make it even smaller, and small tiles or mosaics, on the contrary, will make it more spacious. It is recommended to install large tiles in rooms larger than 7 m². In the bathroom, a mosaic on the floor will be quite appropriate.
Fugue, matched to the tone of the cladding, creates the impression of a solid coating
By color
Being one of the planes influencing the overall perception of the interior, the floor needs careful selection. colors... Taking into account the fact that the flooring is durable, it is advisable to make it in neutral colors that will be appropriate in many interior solutions. The color of the floor should organically fit into the space and harmoniously combine with other finishes or create a contrasting combination. So, with the help of a white or light tiled floor, you can visually make a small hallway lighter and larger.
Ceramic base
The surface of the tile, its face layer determines the appearance of the finish, and a properly selected and prepared base is responsible for its quality, strength and durability.
Laying on a cement board (DSP)
Cement board has high strength and, despite its higher cost than plywood or other sheet materials, is an ideal base for laying tiles. This is a versatile material that allows you to form a base for tiles on any surface - on walls, on the floor, on a kitchen counter, in rooms with normal and high humidity.
Important!The cement board requires additional moisture protection.
There are two types of cement boards. Products based on sand and cement have a fiberglass-reinforced face layer that creates a tough and durable base. The length of such slabs is 90 - 300 cm with a width of 80 - 120 cm and a thickness of 6 - 15 mm.
Aquapanel cement-mineral slabs
Slabs based on sand, cement and mineral fiber are available in thickness from 6 mm. In this case, the fibers reinforce and reinforce the entire slab, and not just the top layer, since they are evenly distributed in its array. Such plates are characterized by high density.
Laying on fiberglass gypsum board
Gypsum sheets with the addition of fiberglass, which are made specifically as a base for tiles, differ from drywall sheets... They are not as hard and durable as cement slabs, so they are used under light loads. Internal filler with water-repellent impregnation located inside a moisture-resistant coating, which allows them to be used even in close proximity to water. Fiberglass is used as a reinforcing agent.
Important!Despite the increased moisture resistance, when fixing the plates, additional sealing of the joints is required using silicone sealant.
This material is easy to transport, cut and assemble.
Plywood can be used as a base for laying ceramic tiles in normal humidity conditions. It is not recommended for use in conditions of sudden temperature changes and in rooms with high humidity. It is also necessary to perform high-quality waterproofing with a waterproof membrane. Among all varieties, it is recommended to choose moisture resistant plywood, which is used for outdoor use. When choosing a material, they carefully check the integrity of the plates, the absence of voids, the presence of resin on the surface, which reduces the quality of adhesion. The allowed plywood thickness must be at least 15 mm.
Laying on a concrete slab
When placing ceramics on concrete base no problems arise. The only requirement relates to the quality of the surface of the slab, which must be flat. For 3 meters of length, a difference of no more than 3 mm is allowed. Since any concrete surface is distinguished by dust formation, before laying the tiles, it is dedusted and treated with a primer, which creates a thin film that provides excellent adhesion to the adhesive composition. More often, deep penetration soil Betonokontakt is used for this. For better adhesion, the concrete surface is treated with a wire brush.
Laying on cement screed
A common way of laying tiles is by, which, in turn, can be poured over any base. Standard requirements are surface evenness. To do this, use the method of pouring the solution along the beacons and markings on the wall, which is applied using a laser level. To ensure strength, the screed is reinforced with a metal mesh. The advantage of such a base is that communications and a heat carrier of a warm floor can pass through the screed.
The use of a screed is relevant in the following cases:
- When installing tiled flooring in rooms with high traffic (in sales areas, public premises for any purpose).
- To carry out restoration work to level the floor in a new building.
- With a pronounced deviation from the vertical of the walls of the apartment.
- When facing elements of an irregular room.
Laying on old ceramic flooring
Lay floor tiles on a previously tiled base tiles, is allowed if old cladding holds firmly in place. Otherwise, the floor will need to be completely cleaned of the old finish before, and then level the base. The disadvantage of laying on existing tiles is the increase in the thickness of the coating. To ensure high-quality adhesion of the old tile with the glue solution, its face layer is treated with sandpaper.
Materials and tools
For laying tiles on the floor, you will need a standard set of materials and tools:
- The tile itself. It is worth purchasing it with a margin in case of a marriage when pruning. The tiles should be from the same batch, as products from different batches often differ in shade. You should immediately evaluate the tiles for defects and irregularities and sort them - higher-quality elements will be laid in a conspicuous place, products with defects will be useful for trimming.
- Tiles are trimmed with a tile cutter.
- Tile adhesive and mixing container. When laying tiles, take into account the pot life of the glue and your own pace of work; accordingly, prepare the required amount of glue.
- You will need a notched trowel and trowel to apply the adhesive.
- To form the tile seams, plastic crosses of the required size are purchased.
- To apply the markings, you will need a laser level, a construction square, a tape measure and a pencil.
- When laying tiles, use a level to control the levelness of the surface. It is desirable to have several levels of different sizes to control the position of both one tile and the entire floor space horizontally and diagonally.
- The tiles are fixed by hand and using a hammer with a rubber butt.
- Trowel compound. The fugu is selected taking into account the operating conditions. Epoxy grout is more expensive, but it is more resistant to all kinds of influences. It is also important to decide on the color of the fugue - it can be matched to the tone or be a contrasting tile.
- To work with grout, you will need a small rubber spatula to press the composition to the depth of the joint, a bucket for clean water, a felt float and a sponge.
Preparatory work for the installation of tiles
Preparatory work depends on the type and condition of the foundation. If this is a floor in a new building, then it is necessary to assess its evenness, repair cracks, if necessary, level it with a screed, prime and waterproof it using the coating method.
In the inhabited premises, the existing floor covering is dismantled to the rough screed, it is repaired and leveled.
If the tile will be laid with a pattern, then it is necessary to draw it on paper in advance, apply the appropriate markings on the floor, lay out the tiles in the necessary order and perform a trim necessary partsso that all this is not distracted during work.
When laid on a wooden base, it is checked for strength and integrity. If the boards are strong, do not walk and are rigidly fixed, forming a solid monolithic flooring, then wooden base fill the self-leveling mixture with mesh reinforcement.
As noted earlier, a non-glossy tile with a III or II class of wear resistance is chosen for the floor, depending on the room in which it will be installed. It is worth remembering that the larger the tile format, the higher its cost and the price of glue, which should have a higher plasticity. The optimal tile size for a floor is 40 x 40 cm.
You should decide in advance on the layout of the tiles. The diagonal layout has its own nuances, especially if there is a damper seam in the central opening of the room. At this point, you will need to make a cut on the tile, which will be noticeable even with a high-quality grout.
Diagonal layouts require more tiles and generate more waste. In this case, it is better to choose the standard way of arranging the plates, and start laying from the doorway.
Tiles are laid using SVP wedges, but if the screed is even, then you can use the usual distance crosses, controlling the location of the tiles in level.
Formation of seams using SVP - wedges
In the presence of microcracks on the surface of the screed, it is recommended to use an elastic adhesive, for example, Ceresit CM 117. When laying tiles in the course of work, it is necessary to remove excess adhesive from the joints between adjacent tiles. This will allow you to make high-quality grouting of joints in the future. When working with grouting, it must be borne in mind that the work will have to be done at a fast pace. In the absence of experience, it is better not to dilute a lot of the composition at once, since it has a short pot life. With the help of a small rubber spatula the grout must be pressed in to the full depth of the joint. And then immediately treat the seams with a damp sponge. It is also recommended to remove the remains of grout from the tile surface immediately - if it dries, then you will need to use a special agent to remove it.
We will consider how to grind the seams on the tiles on the floor, and what composition is needed for this.
Important!When choosing a grout in the color of the tile, you can mask not too even joints.
Ceramic tile price
The cost of ceramic tiles depends on many indicators - variety, technical indicators, abrasion class, size, country of origin.
Table 1. Cost of ceramic tiles
| Picture | Name | Size, cm | Cost, rubles (as of June 2018) |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Ceramica Classic Libra | 38.5x38.5 | 830 |
 | Azori eclipse indigo | 33.3x33.3 | 700 |
 | Kerama Marazzi Platan | 30.2 x 30.2 | 675 |
 | Uralceramics Brown PG4BR404 55x55 | 55 x 55 | 840 |
 | Jade-Pottery Tuscany brown | 38.5x 38.5 | 670 |
Care
Ceramic tiles are unpretentious to maintain, but there are some nuances:
- When choosing a detergent, it is necessary to study the recommendations for its use - whether it is suitable for ceramics. It is better to refuse from powdery compositions and detergents containing acids and fats.
- For daily maintenance, we recommend using soap-free detergents or warm water with a glass cleaner.
- It is not recommended to use porous sponges, which can retain abrasive particles that scratch the face layer of the tile.
- The surface is cleaned in two stages - dry and wet. First, remove dirt from the floor with a soft brush, broom or vacuum cleaner, paying special attention to the tile joints, and then wipe the floor with a damp cloth. Rinse off the detergent with clean water and wipe the tile dry.
- If grouting was done cement mortar, then every year the seams are treated with a water-repellent impregnation.
Floor tiles are unpretentious and, as they say, easy to clean. Let's take a closer look at how to clean the tiles on the floor and how to deal with dirt in the joints?
Alternative varieties of tiles
Floor tiles are not only ceramic. Modern manufacturers offer a wide range of natural and synthetic coatings, each of which has its own pros and cons.
PVC tile
Pvc tiles are one of the most budget-friendly flooring options. Such a tile in structure is the same linoleum, produced in the form of slabs of a certain size. For ease of fixing, such tiles can have an adhesive base. The high level of wear resistance of the coating is provided by its multilayer structure.
Such material can be laid on any substrate, even on plywood or old linoleum. The positive qualities of such material include the following:
- Laying can be done on any substrate.
- The material is moisture resistant.
- Low cost.
- The shrinkage process is not typical for PVC tiles.
Among the shortcomings, one can note a short service life, compared to ceramics. Instability before high temperatures and chemicals. PVC tiles, depending on the class, can be used not only in residential premises (class 21 - 23), but also in public (class 31 - 33) and industrial (class 41 - 43) premises.
Vinyl tiles
One of the multi-layer flooring materials - vinyl tiles, belongs to the category of synthetic coatings with high aesthetic data, characterized by moisture and wear resistance. The presence of vinyl in the composition of the tiles guarantees the reliability and excellent performance of the floor covering.
One of the cheaper varieties is quartz vinyl tiles, which contain sand. This is a multi-layer product made of a protective polyurethane coating on a decorative layer, a vinyl base and a lower polymer or fabric layer. Such a coating is moisture resistant, has excellent shock absorption, and is resistant to chemicals. The tile has a non-slip face layer, and due to its high heat transfer, it is suitable for arranging the finishing coat of a warm floor.
Metal floor tiles
Manufacturers offer a huge range of flooring materials, including metal. A polymer film on the surface of such a tile protects it from the harmful effects of moisture. High strength and resistance to influences of various nature make such a coating in demand at industrial and commercial facilities with high traffic, as well as in warehouses. In addition, decorative tiles for home use can be found on sale. Such tiles are characterized by: heat resistance, wear resistance, fire resistance. She is not afraid of mechanical stress.
Stone tiles
Such tiles are made from artificial or real marble or granite. Each of these materials is characterized by high wear resistance and aesthetic appearance.
Of positive qualities of this gender, the following can be noted:
- Long service life (up to 25 years).
- The tiles are frost-resistant.
- Fireproof.
- Aesthetically attractive.
Regardless of the type of tile, the operating conditions are taken into account - in damp rooms it is recommended to abandon products with high hygroscopicity.
Carpet tiles
A novelty in the construction market is modular carpet tiles measuring 50 x 50 cm. The structure of this material is not similar to carpet, as it is a multi-layer product with several reinforced layers.
Due to the presence of a solid substrate and the tight abutment of the elements to each other, the rigidity of individual plates is ensured and excludes their deformation during operation. The base of such a tile is made on the basis of bitumen, polyvinyl chloride, fiberglass or rubber.
Fiberglass ensures that the geometric parameters of the tiles remain unchanged when the temperature in the room changes. The outer layer is made of nylon. The aesthetics and performance of tiles depend on the quality of the fibers and pile.
