What to Know Before Adding Tile to a Home

Homeowners in the Bloomfield area should consider the following when purchasing tiles for their home. Whether they are looking to add a smooth tile to compliment a kitchen, or are in need of some sharp stones to add to an outdoor home, homeowners will be surprised at all the options for tile flooring Bloomfield! But there is more than size and color that decorators or homeowners consider when buying tiles and stone. Here are some key considerations.

Tile Grade is Important

On the side of every tile box will be several categories to consider when purchasing a tile. The first is the grade of the tile. If a decorator or homeowner is looking for tiles for a floor, whether it’s outside or inside, they should purchase a grade one or two. If a tile is a grade three, that means it is intended for walls and will not be strong enough to walk on.

What is the Water Absorption Rate?

If someone is looking for tile for the outside of a home or for a bathroom, the water absorption rate is very important to consider. The water absorption rate considers how well the tiles will absorb water over its lifespan. If a tile says ‘nonvitreous’ on the label it means that the tile can absorb more than 7% of its weight in water. Because of how much water this tile can absorb, it will quickly fall apart if used in an area with lots of water.

Semivitreous tiles can absorb 3-7% of their weight in water. It is recommended to only use these tiles in dry areas. For a tile for a bathroom, spa, or outdoor area, a vitreous or impervious tile is a perfect option. Vitreous tiles absorb only 0.5% to 3% of their weight in water. Impervious absorbs less than 0.5% weight in water. The lower the percentage, the better the tiles will withstand water. Also of note, all porcelain is impervious, so often porcelain tiles will not include an absorption rate.

What is the Tone of a Tile?

Tone rating is another common consideration when homeowners are shopping for tiles. Tone refers to how closely the tile looks like natural stone. If they want a tile with a consistent color, a tile with less tone is the best option. A tile with more tone will make a floor look just like stone.

Can A Tile Withstand Frost?

Take note of the frost rating for homeowners in the colder regions. A tile that cannot withstand frost will crumble as soon as the first snow hits.

Is the Tile Slip Resistance?

One important thing to consider for homeowners planning on adding tile to a bathroom is whether or not the tile is slip resistant! If the C.O.F. number (the measuring tool for how slippery a tile is) is lower, than the tile will be more slippery. The higher the number, the more ideal the tile will be for a bathroom or outdoor area.