Tile Countertops
By Candice ManciniRefacingCabinet.com Columnist
Tile countertops are available in many sizes, forms and colors. Trying to create an artisanal look in your kitchen? Tile can be handcrafted for this personalized atmosphere in your kitchen. That being said, kitchen commands the best qualities available from your countertop surface selection.
Tile Countertops Styles
There are many different styles of tile countertops. Ceramic, stone and porcelain are the most commonly used for kitchen purposes. Ceramic tile is a pressed clay that is fired and glazed. Ceramic ranges from half-inch to three-inch pieces; however, this tile is soft and if chipped, will expose its base color. Porcelain tiles are very thick and dense because they are made of clays which are known for having a low water absorption rate. These tiles are fired at high temperatures and are very durable compared to the others. Glazed porcelain is similar to ceramic tile given the similar base and glossy glaze on the surface.
Maintenance of Tile Countertops
At the top of things to watch for in tile countertops, discolored grout is at the top. Grout is porous and will likely absorb water when the seal breaks down, eventually. Another characteristic of tile is how easily it can be scratched or chipped. The edges of your countertops are especially susceptible to friction from other items in the kitchen. If this damage occurs, you should consider chiseling out the damaged tiles and replace with similar tile. Remember that all tiles for a project should ideally come in the same batch to ensure the qualities are the same.
Your kitchen countertops can have a custom look and feel when tiles are arranged in unusual patterns and mixing various tiles with shape and size differences.
About The Author
Candice Mancini is a freelance writer, a teacher, and a homeowner with great appreciation for brilliant home improvement innovations.
