Ceramic Tile/
Natural Stone

FAQ's

Will ceramic tile chip and crack?
Prior to installation, ceramic tile is a very brittle product, but once it is installed, it becomes a permanent part of your construction, and will not chip or crack unless hit with a heavy object.

How durable is ceramic tile?
If the right product is selected and maintained properly-that is, kept free of grit and sand, it should last the lifetime of your home.

What type of tile can be installed outdoors?
Any tile that is frost resistant may be used outdoors. Many porcelain tiles and all natural stones are frost resistant- be sure to check with the tile manufacturer to verify a tiles frost resistance.

Is ceramic tile slippery?
Tile is about as slippery as vinyl or wood. Naturally, if the floor gets wet, any of these hard surface materials will become more slippery. There are many tiles that have slip resistant surfaces but keep in mind, the more abrasive the surface is, the more difficult it will be to maintain. You might consider using a mat in wet areas.

Should ceramic tile be waxed?
Glazed tile should never be waxed. The purpose of the glaze is to give you a maintenance free floor. If you wax the glaze, all you are doing is creating more work for yourself. To keep your tile looking new, use a small amount of neutral cleaner in warm water and rinse clean.

Should a sealer be used on ceramic tile?
A glazed tile is already stain proof and does not require a sealer. Unglazed tiles and natural stones require a penetrating sealer. It is an invisible stain resistant shield that absorbs into to the surface of the tile. It will not change the appearance of a tile, enhancers are available to make the colors come alive more. Surface sealers are not recommended and they wear unevenly and need to be routinely stripped and re-applied.

Is ceramic tile cold on the feet?
Ceramic tile is a thermal product that absorbs both heat and cold, depending on the room temperature. It is an excellent choice for radiant floor heat systems, but may conduct cold if you have a cold basement below it.