Ceramic Buyer's Guide

Ceramic tile is made of clay and shale that has been baked and hardened in a kiln.  The traditional baking, or firing method, is a double-fired process called bicottura.  A more modern process called monocottura bakes and glazes the tile in a single firing.  The single-step process has many advantages, including producing a tile that is more economical tile, more dense and durable, and has a harder glaze.  Prior to the firing process, natural clay colors are sometimes augmented with pigments.

Types

The clay composition, in combination with the firing process, and whether the tile is glazed or unglazed, creates one of four basic tile types:

Keep in mind:

Glazed Tiles

• Have a surface that provides color, design and ease of maintenance.
• The higher the firing temperature, the harder the glaze.
• Light-colored glazes tend to be stronger than dark ones.
• Shiny glazes tend to be softer than matte or satin finishes.
• Offer a greater range of colors.
• Are more resistant to stains.

Unglazed Tiles

• Have a color produced from the tile's composition and/or added pigments. 
• Tend to stand up better to wear.
• Their natural surface makes them more slip-retardant.