There are currently two main types of tiles commonly used in the market: polished tiles and glazed tiles. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, making it important to understand which one suits your needs best.
Polished tiles are ceramic tiles that have been mechanically ground and polished to create a glossy finish. Vitrified tiles are a more advanced version of polished tiles. They are fully vitrified, meaning they have a very smooth surface that doesn’t require polishing. These tiles are more wear-resistant and can be cut or shaped as needed. However, one major drawback is that they are prone to staining. Liquids like tea or soy sauce can easily seep into the surface and leave stubborn stains. Although many manufacturers now apply anti-stain treatments, vitrified tiles still don't perform as well as glazed tiles in terms of stain resistance.
Glazed tiles, on the other hand, are traditional tiles with a glazed surface. The glaze can vary in strength, which allows them to be used for both walls and floors. While some glazed tiles are softer than others, many antique versions are highly durable and can be used in high-traffic areas. One of their biggest advantages is better water resistance and stain resistance. Additionally, most glazed tiles offer good slip resistance, especially older varieties. Their surfaces can also be decorated with various patterns, giving them a more diverse and stylish appearance. It's a common misconception that glazed tiles aren't wear-resistant, but in reality, quality products are more than sufficient for home use.
When it comes to slip resistance, glazed tiles generally outperform vitrified tiles. This is especially important if you have elderly family members, children, or anyone who might be prone to slipping. Merchants often use vague terms to describe slip resistance, so it’s best to test it yourself. A simple way is to place a few tiles on the floor, pour water on top, and walk on them. If the tiles are truly slip-resistant, you should feel secure even when wet.
Many people think that pouring water on the floor is unnecessary, but in reality, most falls happen when there’s moisture or oil on the surface. Slip-resistant tiles are designed to handle such conditions, so you don’t need to crawl around when bathing. Always prioritize slip resistance if safety is a concern.
Glazed Tile Selection Tips:
- Check the tile surface – it should be smooth, without any rough spots or imperfections. The design should be clear and consistent.
- Look for color uniformity. Good quality tiles will have minimal color variation, while poor ones may show noticeable differences.
- Test the flatness by placing two tiles together. If they align perfectly, the quality is likely good.
- Feel the weight – denser tiles tend to be more durable.
- Perform a water absorption test by pouring water on the back of the tile. The slower it absorbs, the better the quality.
How to Test Vitrified Tiles for Water Resistance:
Vitrified tiles are known for being porous, so testing for water resistance is crucial. A simple method involves using a marker pen after wiping the tile with wax remover. This helps reveal whether the tile is absorbing water. However, be cautious and let the seller know what you're doing to avoid disputes. Even the best vitrified tiles will eventually absorb some water, so it's best to wipe off the marker within a couple of minutes.
Tiles and Waist Panels:
Merchants often recommend buying decorative tiles or waist panels, which are more expensive but visually appealing. However, these can be replaced with tile stickers, which are cheaper and easier to change. Some people prefer using these creatively, like placing wall tiles on the floor or using waist pieces as borders. This can add a unique touch to your space without breaking the bank.
Tile Purchase Tips:
- Always check the same model and color number when purchasing to avoid mismatched tiles.
- Inspect the tiles in person before accepting delivery, as they are fragile.
- Be aware of pricing methods – some merchants calculate based on square meters, but it’s better to confirm the price per tile.
- Ensure that the contract includes an unconditional return policy for damaged or unopened tiles.
- Keep a few extra tiles for future repairs or replacements.
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