Monday, Aug 1, 2011

Tallahassee Tile Tip # 1: Choose the Right Tile Material.

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is perhaps the most common tile found and used on the market today. Ceramic tile use can be traced back as far as the Pharos in Egypt. Ancient Egyptians would make ceramic tile by combining dry materials and water into molds and letting them dry in the hot desert sun. Ceramic tile is made of primarily of clay, mixed with other aggregates like feldspar and quartz to increase strength by changing its molecular bonding patterns and characteristics.  Ceramic tiles made in modern times are typically manufactured using a dry press method, after which the tile is fired in a kiln to harden and cure. Ceramic tiles may be glazed or unglazed depending on the aesthetic goals of the manufacturer. Glazed refers to a process using a glass like material to coat and reinforce the surface of the tile during the firing process. There are numerous formulas for glaze, each which can produce a very wide variety of finishes to the completed tile.  Ceramic is the second hardest tile material next to porcelain and offers homeowners a very high quality, low porosity durable tile. Ceramic tile is a suitable choice for both indoor and outdoor applications, as well as constant moisture applications such as tiled shower stalls.

 

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tile is actually a form of ceramic tile. The main difference between ceramic tile and porcelain tile is in its composition and production methods. Porcelain tile is manufactured in essentially the same way as ceramic tile, however special types of clay, known as porcelain clays are used, with other specific ingredients such as quartz added to it. Porcelain tiles are fired (in a kiln) at much higher temperatures then regular ceramic tile, the result of this high temperature firing and the clay composition yields a much harder, denser tile than regular ceramic. Porcelain tile is also less porous than regular ceramic tile. One downside of porcelain tile is that is can fracture easily, because it is so hard and dense. This however is usually only before the tile is installed, i.e. the tile breaks easily during transportation. Like regular ceramic tile, porcelain tile comes in a variety of finishes that can be tailored to mimic a variety of natural stone, colors, etc; and can also be glazed or unglazed.

 

Glass Tile

You may have guessed that glass tile is made of glass. If so, congratulations, you are correct. Glass tile is essentially glass that is formed using traditional glass production methods into various shapes of tile. Glass tile is very commonly seen in mosaic tile installations. Glass tile is unique in that it is impervious to water and the elements and is capable of producing colors and effects due to its translucency and composition that are impossible to duplicate with ceramics. The primary problem with glass tile is its inherent nature to crack or fracture under stress easily, much like any other glassware. This means that aside from use for aesthetic purposes, glass is a poor choice for most tile installations as it cracks easily under stress from moving or settling substrates.

 

Natural Stone Tile

Congratulations again, you have gotten two in a row right. Natural stone tile is made from, well, let's see here, natural stone. Even though you are not a geologist, (my apologies if you are in fact a geologist reading this article, I stand corrected) you are most likely aware that not all stone is created equal. Going back to our high school science class you may remember how stone is formed, and how that formation process determines the characteristics of the stone including its appearance, density and hardness. Since this is not a science lesson, we will skip that portion of the lesson, we will however discuss the types of stone that are most commonly used for tile.

 

Marble and Granite Tile

Both marble and granite make excellent choices for tile. They offer a variation of colors and properties that you cannot find in a traditional ceramic or porcelain tile. No two pieces of natural marble or granite tile will be exactly the same, thus you will have a one of a kind piece if you choose this material. In addition to their natural beauty, both marble and granite tile are very hard and dense, with very low porosity. This makes the exceptionally well suited for both indoor and outdoor applications, as well as in wet areas and those with sanitary requirements. Just as the look of the stone varies so much from piece to piece, the price does as well. Very nice marble and granite tile can be found for a reasonable price, however depending on the characteristics the price can sky rocket.

Travertine

Travertine is a very soft and porous stone. It is found in nature with holes in it, much like Swiss cheese. Travertine is a very popular choice in European countries simply because it is so abundant and affordable. Travertine is a very weak form of tile. To strengthen an seal the tile; the natural holes found in the travertine are filled with an epoxy based resin and then polished. Travertine is never a good choice for wet environments or high traffic commercial areas. Travertine, due to its color and porosity will have to be constantly sealed to prevent staining. Travertine tile will typically be twice as thick as normal tile, another characteristic that can be problematic. If you insist on having natural stone, and cannot afford the cost of marble or granite, then travertine may be the choice for you, be aware that it is not highly recommended by our staff.

Slate

Slate is another very unique stone, in that during its formation it is extremely layered. Slate is a very soft stone. Slate, like other natural stones offers characteristics that are hard to duplicate in a synthetic environment. Because slate is so soft and breaks so easily, we only recommend it for use indoors as a decorative piece. Slate should never be used outdoors, in wet areas or on floors. Slate, like travertine will have to be constantly sealed to prevent staining.

 

Tallahassee Tile Tip # 2: Choose the Right Substrate

Tile can be installed on almost any surface, however you will typically see tile installed over floors, on walls and in showers. Depending on where the tile is going, proper substrate preparation and material selection is crucial.

Over a Concrete Slab

If you plan to install your tile over a concrete slab you have a lot more flexibility than in other areas. Depending on the age of your home and the location of the tile (kitchen, bath, etc) you can choose to install right over the slab, or you can install an uncoupling membrane first. You may wonder why the age of your home is important when choosing what substrate to install your tile on. It is important to remember that the earth is always changing  beneath our feet, even if we cannot see it or feel it. Every house goes through a period of "settling". Settling refers to the natural process of a home and its foundations shifting in any direction over a period of time. Although your home never actually stops settling, the most dramatic fluctuations typically happen during the first five to ten years after construction. This means that if your house is newer, an uncoupling membrane may be a wise choice, if your house is thirty years old, it may be okay to not use one.

An uncoupling membrane is a flexible layer of material between the floor and your tile. Uncoupling membranes a water proof as well. What an uncoupling membrane does is allow your home to shift independently from your tiled floor. The end result is that your tile is less likely to crack, protrude or sink.

This is a good time to mention that it can never hurt to use an uncoupling membrane, no matter what area the tile is going to be installed in, or the age of the home. It is a safe practice, thus we encourage it. Uncoupling membranes should ALWAYS be used on top of plywood floors, particularly in second story bathrooms. If your house is not on a slab, but framed on a crawl, then an uncoupling membrane should always be used as well.

There are several manufacturers of these membranes. Essentially they are all installed the same, however be sure to always read the manufacturer's suggested installation methods and follow them with precision.

Plywood Sub Floors

If your house is built on a crawl, or if the room you are tiling is on the second story, you will no doubt find a plywood subfloor under your existing floor. Installing tile over a wood subfloor offers a new set of challenges; like installing over a slab, you have options. We recommend the uncoupling membrane method mentioned above for all wood subfloor installations; however there are other choices. If the area to be tiled is a dry area, i.e. not a bathroom or a kitchen, then the tile can be installed over a layer of special cement called self leveling thin set. This is done by "floating" the floor. This is something that a professional with experience must do, so we will not go into great detail about it. The basic principal is to create a level surface out of cement that rests atop your existing wood sub floor; to which your new tile will be installed.

If the plywood subfloor exists in a wet area such as a kitchen or bathroom, then additional measures need to be taken. As we said before, an uncoupling membrane is the best choice, however you can also use a waterproof membrane in its place. It will not have the same benefits to combat shifting, it will however prevent moisture from getting through the tile and into your wood floor. A waterproof membrane is a thick layer of plastic that is installed over the floor before the self leveling cement is applied.

Drywall

Installing tile on drywall is perfectly okay as long as the drywall is in a dry area. Dry wall, even if it is mold resistant green board should NEVER be used inside of a shower or tub stall. All shower stalls need to be walled in using cement board. The tile for the shower or tub is then installed over the cement board.

Other Materials

Tile can be installed over many other materials, including concrete, block and even brick. Installation methods will vary, but typically these substrates do not require special techniques or preparation. It is important to note that whatever substrate the tile is being installed on, it is very important that the surface be as clean as possible. The area should be swept and vacuumed, then carefully wiped with a damp cloth. Never prepare a substrate by washing it with a chemical detergent or cleaner. Doing this could affect the adhesion of the tile to the substrate.

 

Tallahassee Tile Tip # 3: Choose the Right Adhesive Material

Tile can be installed only two ways and if it were up to us, there would be only one way. Tile is installed by applying a special mortar known as thin set to both the tile and the substrate. The thin set bonds the tile to the substrate permanently.

Types of Thin Set

There a numerous brands of thin set on the market, each with different names. One difference between thin sets is whether they are modified or unmodified. Modified refers to the addition of latex polymers to improve bonding strength and flexibility. We always recommend using a modified thin set. There are liquid latex additives that can be added to unmodified thin set to make it modified, however this must be done carefully, so it is best to get thin set that is already properly proportioned.  This is a good time to mention that some uncoupling membrane manufactures recommend using unmodified thin set with their product. Always follow the manufacturer's suggested installation methods.  When mixing the thin set, always read and follow the directions.

Mastic

Mastic is a type of tile adhesive, it comes conveniently pre mixed and ready to use. It has a very high initial tack strength, making it ideal for tiling walls. Although its initial tack strength is high, its final cured strength is much less than thin set. In addition to this, mastic re-emulsifies when it comes in prolonged contact with water, this means it will never really dry in wet areas, leaving a loose tile and a sticky mess. We never recommend using mastic or any type of tile adhesive other than mortar.

Adhesive Strips

We actually saw these in the store yesterday. Stick on adhesive strips for tile, do not even consider using these for anything other than hanging a poster on the wall.

Tallahassee Tile Tip # 4: Choose the Right Grout

Grout is much more then something to make the lines of your tile look pretty. Grout is to tile what mortar lines are to brick. Grout has a very unique bonding  and compression strength, this helps support your tiles and keep them in place. It also helps to absorb and transfer moisture. There are two types of grout, sanded and un-sanded. Sanded grout is always recommended for tile installation in which the grout line is larger than 1/8". Anything 1/8" or smaller, use un sanded grout. It is especially important to follow the mixing instructions for grout. The right consistency will ensure a lasting grout job.

 

Tallahassee Tile Tip # 4: Choose the Right Tile Installer

Tile is meant to be beautiful and last forever. If not installed properly, it can be a real eye sore, and will surely not last forever. Although tile is an imperfect medium, installing tile is still an art. Make sure you demand quality when you install your tile, and accept nothing less. Always question the person who is installing the tile about the materials they are using, etc.