Here?s a fun fact: Rockwall, Texas got its name from a rock formation back in the 1800s. A flooring that rocks (sorry, we couldn?t resist the pun) is tile made from granite, an igneous formation found at the base of the earth, created through the cooling and solidification of lava.
Granite tile has a beautiful, naturally speckled appearance. Usually white, pink, or gray, it adds value to your home and is often seen on countertops. Be sure yours is clearly labeled that it?s suitable for flooring installation. It?s tough and easy to maintain.
While you do need a sealant, know that most last for around 10 years. There are different kinds, though, that don?t always work well together, so keep a good record of what you used.
Quartz tiles, also popular for flooring installation, are available in many colors, patterns, and designs and because there?s such a variety, there?s something to fit any budget. Unlike most stone, quartz doesn?t absorb liquids so you don?t require a sealant. (By the way, quartz is a rock too, Rockwall.) It, too, is tough, durable and easy to keep clean.
What?s the deal with ceramic and porcelain tile? Isn?t it all the same?
While porcelain is a type of ceramic material, it behaves very differently in various applications. Porcelain is heavier, made with finer particles, and fired at higher temperatures for a longer period of time, giving it extreme durability.
The main difference between the two is that porcelain tile is 100 percent impervious to water. Ceramic is waterproof only when it?s glazed.
Porcelain has a long lifespan and is useful in areas of heavy foot traffic, such as the kitchen, bathroom (especially since it?s so waterproof), entryways and around shower and tub surrounds. It?s also appropriate for outdoor use on patios, decks, walkways, and pools.
Ceramic tile is never recommended for outdoor use and, to be waterproof, it?s recommended that it gets sealed every two years. That glaze is what also makes it so tough. Besides the flooring installation, it?s also used for backsplashes and accent walls. Ceramic tile is also lighter and easier to install than its porcelain cousin. Both types, however, can be labor-intensive to install and are best handled by a professional.
And of course, both types of tile come in many colors, shapes, sizes, and designs, including wood-look and other styles that convincingly mimic a variety of flooring materials.
For more information, come into one of the CW Floors showrooms in Rockwall, Denton, or San Antonio, TX.
