Frequently Asked Questions About Ceramic Tile
What kind of tile is best suited for damp or moist environments? What kind of tile
will hold up in high-traffic areas? Check out our most frequently asked questions.
You might just find the answer you're looking for.
What could be causing cracks to appear in ceramic floor tiles?
There is always a remote possibility of an individual fractured tile, usually caused
by not being bonded properly and then being impacted by an object dropping on it.
That type of fracture is repaired by replacing the damaged tile. A sure rule of
thumb to determining the problem: if the crack goes from one tile to another on
a continuous line through the grout joint, the problem, without any doubt, is in
the substrate; usually a crack in the slab. The damaged tile would have to be removed,
a crack isolation membrane put down and the tile reinstalled; which should solve
the problem.
Where would unglazed be preferable over glazed ceramic tile and why?
Unglazed ceramic tile is strongly recommended for most exterior horizontal (floor)
applications, interior applications subject to standing water such as shower floors,
for very high traffic floors such as airports, train stations, etc. Impervious porcelain
tiles are recommended in all 'freeze/thaw' horizontal exterior applications, and
even in vertical 'freeze/thaw' applications subject to standing (or in) water.
What type of tile is recommended for kitchen counter tops and why?
Although a great variety of glazed tiles are used for counter tops, manufacturers
specifically recommend only specific tiles. These are usually double glazed or glazes
fired at higher temperatures, such as glazes on vitreous and porcelain bodies. High-gloss
glazes are not recommended because they will scratch under normal kitchen counter
top use. Many owners will select these 'high-gloss' tiles for counter tops even
though they are told "they will scratch," because they like the look and do not
intend to use their kitchen on a regular basis. Mohawk includes specific references
in our catalog for each product. Refer to Mohawk Product Catalog. Vanity Tops: Most
tiles are all right to use, except the softest glazes, because of less abuse.
What is a 'Master Grade Certificate'? - & - How are they obtained?
A. It means that the manufacturer guarantees that box of tile meets and exceeds
all the requirements as dictated in ANSI 137.1.
B. A 'Master Grade Certificate' can be obtained from the tile manufacturer or supplier
upon request. If you want a certificate when picking up your order, request it in
advance. This certificate must be signed by both the manufacturer and the installer.