Enhancing the beauty of a project always requires sane decision-making when it comes to interiors. Hence, investing in the best possible way when it comes to tiles is always very important.
If you still need clarification about choosing glazed porcelain tiles and wish to know more about them, read the article below. This guide comprises every detail on glazed porcelain tiles, from their pros and cons to how you can choose and install them.So, let’s read below.
What is a Glazed Porcelain Tile?
A porcelain tile is made with clay and some other minerals, and it is subjected to high temperatures for firing so that it may be set in the given mold and also turns out to be a robust and adequately finished product to use.
When it comes to glazed porcelain tile, this kind of porcelain tile is a tile that has been applied with a layer of glaze on the surface of the tile before it is subjected to the process of firing. This layer adds a glaze to the tile’s surface, making it aesthetically pleasing and backed with several other characteristics.
Benefits of Glazed Porcelain Tiles
When choosing glazed porcelain tiles, there are countless benefits to make the most of, and some of these are discussed below:
Durable and Resists Wear and Tear
Glazed porcelain tiles are suitable to withstand harsh conditions and have a very dense structure, making them resistant to wear and tear. Hence, even in high foot traffic areas, these tiles have the ability to maintain their appearance perfectly.
Reduced Maintenance Requirements
Glazed porcelain tiles have minimal maintenance needs; the glaze on them not only adds a glossy texture but instead also acts as a barrier protecting them from stains and dust. They only need regular mopping and basic sweeping, and they shine like they are newly installed.
Perfect for Moisture Oriented Areas
Glazed porcelain tiles are ideal for areas exposed to water and moisture and are widely used in bathrooms and kitchens. Their surface does not absorb water and hence helps prevent molds and mildew.
Resists Stains
The glaze on porcelain tiles adds a non-porous texture to the surface of these tips, which helps resist stains. They are easy to clean, and even if something is spilled, wiping it right away would not leave any stains.
Versatile Design and Color Options
You can have many options when choosing glazed porcelain tiles. They offer a natural appearance of stones, marble, wood, and much more, providing a timeless look to install and easily replicate the luxurious aesthetics very well.They even comprise many themes and styles; you can opt for a modern and intricate design to a traditional look, whatever suits your interior layout.
Stays Vibrant in the Longer Run
Glazed porcelain tiles are manufactured by being subjected to very high temperatures, and hence they can maintain color vibrancy over the years with no fading and dull appearance. The firing process and layer of glaze lock the colors within the tile and keep it vibrant for years and years.Moreover, these tiles are widely used for indoor and outdoor applications because the glaze protects against UV radiation. Hence even when subjected to sunlight, they stay the same in color.
Resistance Against Scratches and Chipping Off
The glazed porcelain tiles are ideal for high foot traffic areas and stay durable even when used too much. Hence, they are suitable for residential as well as commercial applications. Their original appearance remains the same and doesn’t let much of the scratches appear, nor do they chip off easily.
Downsides of Porcelain Glazed Tiles
Along with benefits, there are some downsides of the porcelain glazed tiles, which also need to be paid attention to make the right decision on rehearing teri purchase and installation.
Cost Considerations
If you create a comparison between other kinds of tiles with glazed porcelain tiles, you will find them expensive. However these tiles are the best in terms of durability, but you have to make a hefty initial investment for a better long-term benefit.
Slippery Finish
One of the significant drawbacks of glazed porcelain tiles is that they are slippery. Due to the layer of glaze, when moisture or water spills over them, they may pose a security threat. Hence, it is advisable to be careful when installing them in wet areas like swimming pools and bathrooms.However, another solution to this issue is that a layer of texture on the glazed porcelain tiles may be added to mitigate the slippery finish.
Installation Could be Challenging
Glazed porcelain tiles are challenging to install and hence need a professional to do the job who is an expert. These tiles need precision to achieve flawless results, and a perfectly finished surface is then achieved.Moreover, if any tile is damaged, the repair could also be a complex job. It is very difficult to achieve a seamless result and also needs an expert to do the job perfectly.If you want to know about DIY Guide to Glaze Ceramic Tile at Home, you can check it out here.
Applications of Glazed Porcelain Tiles
Glazed porcelain tiles may elevate any place in an instant, and it is widely used for multiple spaces ranging from walls to floors, and there are many applications of these tiles, as discussed below:
- Glazed porcelain tiles are ideal for bathrooms and kitchens, and they can withstand splashes and spills, being very easy to clean and, at the same time, enhance the aesthetic beauty of these places.
- The glazed porcelain tiles are even ideal for flooring bedrooms and living rooms, the lighter tones in white add a lot of charm and luxurious appeal to the flooring of such places, and they are easily maintained and cleaned.
- Apart from the interiors, they can suit the exteriors, and patios can be enhanced by applying them; despite being subjected to sunlight, these roles do not fade away quickly and are highly durable.
- The pool areas are walkways that may also be enhanced with the glazed porcelain tiles; however, you can opt for the tiles with slip-resistant coating on them so that a safety feature is added.
- The commercial sector is also equipped with glazed porcelain tiles, which are durable and appealing and can withstand high foot traffic with many designs. Hence, offices, stores, hospitals, hotels, malls, and even restaurants are equipped with glazed porcelain tiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Process of Making Glazed Porcelain Tiles?
Ans. The glazed porcelain tiles blend clay and a glass glaze texture. The porcelain clay in a fine texture is first subjected to a model, and then it is fired at a very high temperature so that a durable base can be created. The layer of glaze is applied on it before it is fired at high temperature, and this layer comprises colors and minerals, adding a glossy look to the tile. By way of adding glaze, durability and finishing both could be achieved on the tile.
How are Glazed and Unglazed Porcelain Tiles Different?
Ans. One of the primary ways to distinguish between glazed and unglazed porcelain tiles is because of their finish. The glazed tile will always have a glossy finish, and unglazed will have no coating. These two types are both durable, but the unglazed tiles are not stain resistant, whereas the glazed ones are.
Are Glazed Tiles Suitable for Outdoor Applications?
Ans. Glazed porcelain tiles are suitable for outdoor installation; these tiles resist sunlight and hence are suitable for patios and pools and do not even fade. However, when choosing them for outdoor applications, make sure to select the ones that are slip resistant.
Can Glazed Porcelain Tiles Be Installed as a DIY Installation?
Ans. Installing the glazed porcelain tiles is challenging; hence it is recommended to choose a professional to do the job. If you do it on your own, a minor mistake could damage the entire look making the finished look untidy.
What is the Process of Cleaning and Maintaining Glazed Porcelain Tiles?
Ans. The process of cleaning and maintenance of glazed porcelain tiles is very simple, and just by regular sweeping and mopping, the dirt and debris can be removed easily. However, ensure to avoid harsh chemicals as those may damage the glaze on porcelain tiles.
Conclusion
As you have gone through the details above, you must be well aware of everything regarding porcelain glazed tiles. These details shared above can be of great help to you when it comes to understanding the nature of these tiles and how to maintain them. Apart from this, any questions that you may have in mind will be answered in the FAQs given.
George Ceramic is one of the best glazed ceramic tiles supplier in China, contact us to get a quote.