You may have heard that floor tile is a waterproof product, but that's not entirely true. Yes, it's an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms, but there's more to the situation.
A few facts could be most important to you as you search this product line. And here are some facts to get you started as you shop.
Tile flooring construction
Tile flooring consists of clay and other materials fired in very hot kilns. The result is a dense, hard tile format that creates extensive moisture resistance.
For a tile to receive a category rating as "impervious," the floor tile must have a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%. These tiles feature the highest density of all.
Vitreous tile absorbs between 0.5 and 3%, Semi-vitreous, from 3 to 7%, and non-vitreous absorbs more than 7%. These are all reflections of the water absorption rate.
Differences between tile types
In a general description, all porcelain products get a "waterproof" rating. And ceramic tiles get a "water resistant" classification.
It's essential to note that while porcelain can be waterproof, grout is a concern. Moisture can still seep through grout to the underside of the tile flooring.
At our tile shop, you’ll find that it's essential to include a proper sealant for a waterproof result. We can discuss all these features with you while you're here.
We have the tile flooring and information you need
Floor Show, Inc. is a great place to shop for the flooring you want and need. And our associates are here to answer your questions with experience and training.
You're invited to visit our tile store in Ponderay, ID, at your convenience. From there, we are proud to serve residents from:
- Sagle
- Hope
- Clark Fork
- Sandpoint
- Bonners Ferry
- Priest River
- Noxon
- Troy
- and Athol
