When it comes to home decoration, tiles are one of the most commonly used materials, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. High-quality tiles not only enhance the visual appeal of a space but also offer practicality, durability, and ease of maintenance. With so many options available on the market, choosing the right tile that suits your needs and style is essential.
Tiles come in various types based on their function and manufacturing process. They can be categorized into floor tiles, wall tiles, and waistline bricks depending on where they are installed. From a production standpoint, they are classified as glazed tiles, through-body tiles, vitrified tiles, and mosaics. Other variations are typically derived from these main categories. Each type has its own unique features, making it important to understand which one fits your specific requirements.
1. Glazed Tiles
Glazed tiles are among the most popular choices for both walls and floors due to their vibrant colors and excellent stain resistance. These tiles have a glass-like layer applied to their surface, which gives them a glossy or matte finish. There are two main types: ceramic glazed tiles, made from clay with higher water absorption and a red back, and porcelain glazed tiles, made from porcelain clay with lower water absorption and a grayish-white back. Both are widely used in interior design for their aesthetic appeal and functionality.
2. Through-Body Tiles
Unlike glazed tiles, through-body tiles have no glaze on the surface, and the color and material are consistent throughout the tile. These are highly wear-resistant and often used in high-traffic areas such as hallways, walkways, and commercial spaces. While some modern varieties feature patterns that extend through the tile, their color palette is generally more subdued compared to glazed tiles. As minimalist design trends become more popular, through-body tiles are gaining widespread use in both flooring and wall applications.
3. Polished Tiles
Polished tiles are a type of through-body tile that has been polished to create a smooth, shiny surface. They are hard-wearing and suitable for most indoor spaces except wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Thanks to osmosis technology, polished tiles can mimic natural stone or wood textures. However, polishing can leave tiny pores on the surface, which may trap dirt or stains. Some manufacturers apply an anti-staining layer at the factory, but this can reduce the tile’s original through-body effect. To maintain the look, some professionals apply wax before installation to prevent staining during construction.
4. Vitrified Tiles
Vitrified tiles were developed to address the staining issues of polished tiles. These tiles are fully fired at high temperatures, resulting in a dense, non-porous surface that doesn’t require polishing. This makes them highly resistant to stains and easier to clean. Compared to polished tiles, they are harder and more durable, though they tend to be more expensive. Vitrified tiles are ideal for flooring in both residential and commercial settings.
5. Mosaic Tiles
Mosaic tiles are small in size and often referred to as "tiles." They bring a nostalgic charm, as they were once widely used for wall decoration. Their versatility allows for countless design combinations—abstract patterns, color transitions, and even custom shapes. Glass mosaic tiles are particularly useful for curved surfaces or corners, as their small size helps achieve smooth and seamless coverage. Mosaic tiles come in various forms, including ceramic, glass, molten glass, sintered glass, and Venus glass, and are available in square, rectangular, and shaped formats.
6. Wall Tiles
Wall tiles are commonly used in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where moisture resistance is important. Made from white porcelain or refractory clay, they can be glazed or unglazed. The standard thickness ranges from 5mm to 6mm, with common sizes like 108mm squares, 152mm squares, and 152x76mm rectangles. Various shapes, such as negative and positive angles, are also available for special architectural details. Wall tiles come in a wide range of styles, including glazed, matte, crystal-glazed, marble-effect, and patterned designs.
In summary, each type of tile offers distinct advantages and is suited for different applications. Choosing the right tile depends on your personal preferences, the environment, and the overall design of your space. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision and achieve the best results in your renovation project.
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