Tile Frequently Asked Questions

Can tile increase the value of my home?
The National Association of Home Builders has found that the quality and style of the kitchen dramatically impacts the value of a home. Tile naturally enhances the appearance of your kitchen.

Is ceramic tile expensive?
The initial cost of ceramic tile (when installed by a professional) is typically higher than many other floor coverings. However, because of its durability, it is also considered to be the least expensive in the long run. Occasionally, a tile may be cracked or broken, but the entire floor will never have to be replaced, except in extreme cases. Most other floors, such as carpet and vinyl flooring, will eventually need to be replaced. Tile runs the gauntlet. It will endure and increase the value of your home.

Should I use large or small tile?
Using large tiles in a small room will visually expand the room, making it look larger. However, dramatic tile patterns may make the room look even smaller.

What color grout should I use?
Using a grout that is the same color as the tile will create a blended effect, making the floor more uniform in appearance. For some, this may be the desired effect. However, using a contrasting color grout will emphasize the grid layout. You don’t want to go to extreme, however, or your floor will end up looking too busy and you will tire of it quickly. The best bet for grout selection is to choose one the blends well with the tile.

Should I use a dark or light grout?
Again, as mentioned above, choose your grout based on the color of the tile. A darker grout will hide stains and discoloration. However, when using a dark grout and light tile, you run the risk of a too-busy floor (see above).

Are ceramic tiles cool?
It depends on the temperature in the room. Ceramic tiles can be cool underfoot if the room is cool. If it becomes a problem, particularly in the winter months, consider area rugs or even an under-floor heating system. Like leather, tiles will acclimate to the room temperature.

How do you clean ceramic tile?
Cleaning tiles is simple. Wipe tiles with a damp sponge or mop, using a small amount of soap less detergent in warm water. Heavy duty cleaning can be accomplished with a bleach and water solution. Avoid abrasive household cleaners, which will scratch your tile. (see tile care for more thorough information)

Why are soaps not recommended?
They tend to leave a film which can dull the surface and promote mold and mildew.

Can I clean with vinegar and water?
No. Vinegar is an acid.

Can I use steel wool pads to clean my tiles?
No, they are not recommended for the same reason abrasive cleansers are not recommended. They may scratch the tiles. Further, loose bits of steel left on the grout will cause rust stains.

Will tile fade over time if exposed to direct sunlight?
No. The color of your tiles are oven-heated at temperatures exceeding 2300 degrees. As such, they are impervious to fading.

Will grout stain or get dirty easily?
It depends. A grout that has not been sealed after installation is subject to stains. Grout that has a protective seal over it will retain its new appearance for many years.

What are the types of ceramic tile?
There are two basic types of tile: glazed and unglazed. A glazed tile is a hardened piece of clay covered with a protective glass coating, creating a sheen. The coating is sprayed or poured on as a liquid and then hardened in the oven. An unglazed tile is simply a hardened piece of clay. There is no protective covering.

Are unglazed tiles as stain-resistant as glazed tiles?
No. Glazed tiles are far more resistant to stains because of the glass protective coating. There are some unglazed tiles with a measure of stain-resistance, but as a rule, glazed is better if worried about stains.

Will the hardness of the glaze be impacted by the temperature of the oven?
Yes, the hotter the oven, the harder the glaze.

Does the gloss level affect slip-resistance?
Naturally. High-gloss products will be more slippery than low-gloss ones.

How long will glazed tile last?
If the right product is selected for the area, and if it's properly maintained, the tile should last for the lifetime of the home. Glazed tiles are nearly indestructible.

Why can't I install wall tiles on my floors?
Wall tiles are specifically made to for walls. The glaze applied is too soft and thin and the tile itself is more porous, making the tile softer and more prone to breakage with heavy foot traffic.

How can you determine whether a tile is suited for outdoor use in a cold climate?
The tile label will specifically state whether they are frost resistant. Tile that absorb 3% or less moisture are considered frost-resistant. They are classified as vitreous and impervious tiles.

Can a floor tile be used on a countertop?
If the structure of the counter is strong enough to support the weight of the heavier floor tile, then this should be fine.

Will tiles burn if a match or cigarette is dropped on them?
No. Tiles are completely fire-proof at any temperature.

What is the most important feature to consider when selecting a tile?
A. It's durability. The tile must be tough enough to withstand the abuse it's going to be subjected to.

What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic tiles?
Porcelain tiles are usually unglazed tiles consisting of a fine mixture of clays. Porcelain tiles are very dense, impervious tiles that are extremely moisture-resistant. They are very durable tiles.

Can tile be installed directly over wood sub floors such as flake board, chip board, luan, masonite, or other composition-type boards?
It’s not recommended. Often, these are prone to absorb moisture and, if they do, may fall apart. The last thing you want under your beautiful new tiles is to have the sub floor become damaged

Can I install tile over existing ceramic tile?
Assuming the existing tile is cleaned thoroughly and sound, this should be fine

Under what conditions can tile be installed directly over a vinyl sub floor?
When the vinyl is firmly adhered to the floor and all contaminants and waxes have been stripped from the floor. If the vinyl is “cushioned,” it should be removed. Bear in mind that some older vinyl may contain asbestos, which can be dangerous if inhaled. In unsure, contact a professional.

Can a cement backer board be used to cover a vinyl floor?
Yes, if the vinyl is non-cushioned and if it is over a wood sub floor.

Marble and Granite Stone

Is there a difference between marble and granite?
Both marble and granite are quarried, cut, and formed directly into tiles. However, they differ on many levels. For instance, granite is and igneous stone. That is, it is formed from molten lava. Granite, comprised of crystallized minerals, is extremely hard. So hard, in fact, that it would dull your knives if you used the surface as a cutting board. Marble, on the other hand, begins its evolution as sediment. It is comprised mainly of silt, animal skeletons, shells, and plant matter. Over millions of years, this sediment solidifies into what we term marble. Because its main component is calcium, it can be affected by acids such as vinegar and citrus beverages.

Should I use marble or granite in my kitchen?
Granite is a more durable stone; therefore, it is advisable that it be used in the kitchen. Granite is also impervious to heat. You could place a hot pan on it to no ill effect.
Marble is far easier to scratch and is affected by acidic substances, such as ketchup. These acidic substances cause a chemical reaction which will remove the polish. However, with proper precautions, such as diligent sealing, marble may be used in the kitchen. The ancient Greeks used marble extensively in all areas of their homes.

Is it necessary to seal stone?
Marble and stone are minerals and, as such, are porous. In other words, they may absorb liquids, which can result in staining. After installation, marble and granite surfaces are sealed in order to clog the pores and prevent everyday spills from staining them. However, time may remove the seal, making it necessary to reapply. Granite is far more stain-resistant than marble.

What is the best way to clean marble and other stones?
Don’t use anything you wouldn’t consider safe to clean your hands with. For instance, you would’t clean your hands with an abrasive powder or cleanser. Further, never use any product which is acidic, such as glass-cleaner type products. Use cleaning products specifically designed for marble and granite.

Can my granite top be damaged?
It cannot be damaged through normal living. Neither knives nor hot items, such as pots and pans, will affect it. However, like any solid surface, high impact blows have the potential to harm granite. Because of its crystalline structure, it can chip if subjected to sharp hard objects. In the event of severe abuse, a chip can be filled with a granite dust and epoxy mixture. Additionally, if left unsealed, granite can absorb stains such as oil, which can ultimately cause dark spots or discoloration. Heat from pots and pans or burning liquids will not affect granite under normal circumstances.

Does granite stain?
As a general rule: no. Granite is very dense. On some colors, moisture may penetrate if left for a long time on the counter, but any dark spots will dry and disappear.