Lesser Known Facts For First Time Tile Buyers

After deciding to decorate your floors or walls with beautiful tiles, next consideration becomes the selection of best suitable tile. Normally, first timers focus their selection on the size and design. But there are many other aspects that need equal consideration as well. The basic knowledge of these aspects will help you to optimize the selection as well as to get the real best in terms of cost, look and durability.

The composition of even designer vitrified tiles glaze varies at large. Different tiles of same brand may have different gloss. Generally the look of tiles of cheap brands varies more but you can’t take 100 percent similar look granted in premium brand also. Solid color of tiles create consistent look; however, shade variation is inherent in certain tiles. If you are using the tiles in well exposed area, select the best matches first for this particular area and use the left out tiles for lesser exposed area.

All the premium tiles brands come with shade variation or color consistency grade marked at the back. You may find following four grades.

• Low - Consistent texture and shade 
• Moderate - Average texture and shade variation 
• High - Extreme texture and shade variation 
• Random - Severe texture and shade variation 

Naturally the tiles marked with ‘low’ are costlier than the tiles marked with ‘high’ or ‘random’. You can use the moderate or high grade tiles in lesser exposed areas or in the areas of lesser use. Different brands of ceramic and polished porcelain tiles offer different type moisture absorption capability. If you are selecting the tile for the areas that are more prone to water like in bathrooms, you need to confirm this aspect essentially. Non-Vitreous tile absorbs seven percent more moisture. These are best suitable for indoor areas. Semi-Vitreous tile absorbs about 3% to 8 % moisture. Vitreous tile absorbs less that 3% moisture.

When you approach the stores dealing in popular type of tiles like elevation tiles, designer vitrified tiles, polished porcelain tiles, ask for complete project cost. Just knowing the price of different tiles can’t give you the idea about the complete cost. Comprehensive project cost includes grouting cost, furniture replacement, demolition of old floor covering, installation and fixing materials besides the cost of tiles.