What is the Difference Between Ceramic Roof Tiles & Clay Roof Tiles

Clay roof tiles can easily make anyone who has seen and experienced the houses of the 80s and 90s nostalgic. You can still find these tiles in use today in rural areas. However, the proliferation of cement and concrete has almost phased the clay tiles from modern homes.

Clay tiles have several qualities that you would love to incorporate into your modern house. For instance, clay tiles are great at providing temperature resistance to the house. However, clay tiles require higher maintenance as they are prone to chipping and breaking.

Nowadays ceramic roof tiles are posing as a more durable alternative to clay roof tiles. Let us help you understand the basic properties of ceramic and clay roof tiles before comparing the two:

What are Ceramic Roof Tiles?

Ceramic roof tiles contain natural white clay and are manufactured under extreme compression techniques. You can find these tiles in a variety of colours, including white, grey, and even darker shades.

The ceramic coating provides better resistance to heat and harsh climatic conditions. Moreover, ceramic roof tiles come in a variety of colours, so you get a wide range of options to choose from.

What are Clay Roof Tiles?

Clay Roof Tiles are made up of standard moulded clay. The density and hardness of these tiles depend on how much they are heated and at what temperature. These tiles generally come in natural and rusty colours, such as pale white, yellow, orange, brown, etc.

The colour doesn’t fade away easily, but due to harsh climatic conditions, it may lose its original brightness. Though clay roof tiles are the most popular roofing option, there are many disadvantages associated with these tiles.

Ceramic Roof Tiles vs Clay Roof Tiles

Let us understand the difference between ceramic and clay roof tiles based on various important factors:

• Water Absorption

Clay tiles absorb more water as the major substance in these tiles is the standard clay itself. High water absorption can put extra weight on the roof, resulting in early damage. On the other hand, water absorption in ceramic tiles is lesser. Therefore, the chances of failure or crack are higher in the case of clay roof tiles than in ceramic tiles.

• Strength & Durability

As ceramic roof tiles are manufactured under high compressions, they are mechanically stronger. The density of strength of clay tiles depends on at what temperature they are baked. But generally, ceramic tiles are stronger and more durable. 

Ceramic Roof tiles can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as high temperatures, the sun’s UV rays, rainfall, humidity, etc. Clay tiles can crack under extremely cold weather conditions. Moreover, the colour of clay tiles is more likely to fade away with time due to exposure to sunlight, rainfall, etc. But the colour of ceramic tiles is comparatively less affected by these factors. 

• Installation

Ceramic tiles, being lighter than traditional clay roof tiles, are easier to install. These take lesser time for installation, and you can also save on labour costs. On the other hand, clay roof tiles are heavier and comparatively difficult to install.

• Maintenance

Traditional Clay roof tiles are more prone to algae, fungus, and other bacteria, due to which their maintenance becomes quite difficult. Ceramic tiles resist algae and fungus-causing bacteria and hence are easier to maintain. The less water absorption in ceramic tiles also makes their maintenance easy as the chances of wear and tear are lesser.

• Variety

Ceramic tiles are available in different colours and textures. From light shades like pale white and yellow to darker colours, you can find ceramic roof tiles to suit every style. Moreover, you can even find ceramic roof tiles that resemble the look of terracotta tiles. On the other hand, you have fewer colour and design options in the case of clay tiles.

• Heat Resistance

Both ceramic roof tiles and clay roof tiles provide a cooling effect for your home. However, ceramic roof tiles are more durable than clay tiles. Also, ceramic roof tiles are better at handling weather conditions. So, you would not have to replace them as frequently.

Given the features and benefits of ceramic roof tiles over clay tiles you would prefer to have a ceramic tile over your roof than clay tiles. However, ceramic roof tiles usually cost more than clay tiles. Also, another disadvantage of installing these tiles on your roof is that you must have a sloped roof.

You cannot install clay or ceramic roof tiles directly onto a flat roof surface. Since most modern urban homes and commercial buildings have flat roofs, they need an alternative solution.

Cool roof or SRI tiles can provide the same temperature control and weatherproof features.

Cool Roof Tiles for Modern Homes & Buildings

Cool roof or SRI tiles are a modern solution for temperature control and insulation from the sun. These are vitrified tiles with a special glaze on top. The glaze provides an SRI effect to the tile. SRI stands for Solar Reflective Index.

SRI indicates the efficiency of the tile’s surface in reflecting the solar heat falling on it. Although all tiles and materials will reflect some amount of heat, the best SRI tiles can reflect 90% or more heat into the atmosphere. This is represented as an SRI value of 90 for the tile.

Higher the SRI in ceramic tiles, the cooler your roof. India’s leading tile manufacturer H&R Johnson offers cool roof tiles with an SRI value greater than 90.

Unlike ceramic or clay roof tiles, you can install cool roof tiles on both sloped roofs and flat rooftops. These tiles can also be used for outdoor pavements and balconies. The surface of the pavement will provide a comfortable walking temperature regardless of the sunlight.

Choose Tiles for Durable Roofing

With the above comparison, ceramic roof tiles are a better choice. Even with ceramic roof tiles, you must ensure the quality. Make sure that you are choosing roof tiles from trusted brands.

Cool roof tiles with high solar reflectivity are among the best roof tile options available in the market for modern homes. With cool roof tiles, you can maintain a roof to enjoy the outdoor seating space while maintaining a lower ambient temperature inside the house.

Ceramic vs Porcelain Tiles: How are they different

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are both popular options for flooring and wall coverings, but they have some differences in their properties.

Ceramic tiles are made of clay and fired at a lower temperature, which makes them less dense and more porous. Ceramic tiles are a good choice for areas with low to moderate foot traffic, such as walls, backsplashes, and low-traffic rooms. They are available in a wide variety of designs and colors and can be finished with a glossy or matte glaze for added durability. They are typically glazed to make them more durable and water-resistant.

Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, are made of a more refined clay that is fired at a higher temperature, which makes them denser and less porous. This also makes porcelain tiles stronger and more durable than ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles are a better choice for areas with high foot traffic, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor patios as they are also highly water-resistant. They are highly durable, making them ideal for use in moisture-prone areas. Porcelain tiles are also available in a range of designs and colours.

Ultimately, the choice between ceramic and porcelain tiles will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as your budget. Both types of tiles offer a long-lasting and attractive option for home flooring and wall coverings and can be a great investment in the overall look and feel of your home.

Durability

 

Porcelain tiles and Ceramic tiles have different durability characteristics. Porcelain tiles are made by heating the clay and other raw materials at high temperatures, which results in a dense, hard, and non-porous surface. This makes them more durable and resistant to staining, scratching and moisture.

 

On the other hand, Ceramic tiles are made by a process that doesn't reach the high temperatures required to make them fully vitrified. They are comparatively more porous. Ultimately, the durability of tiles will depend on factors such as the quality of the materials used, the manufacturing process, and the conditions to which they are exposed.

Maintenance 

 

Porcelain tiles have a dense, non-porous surface, making them less susceptible to staining and easier to clean. They typically require minimal maintenance, just occasional sweeping, and mopping.

 

On the other hand, Ceramic tiles have a more porous surface and may require more frequent cleaning and sealing to prevent staining. They may also be more prone to cracking or chipping over time, especially in high-traffic areas.

 

So, while Porcelain tiles may require a higher initial investment, they often require less maintenance in the long run.

Versatile Design Option

 

Porcelain tiles are available in a wide range of colours, patterns, and finishes, including polished, matte, and textured finishes. The dense, non-porous surface of Porcelain tiles allows for high-resolution digital printing, making it possible to replicate natural stone, wood, and other textures with great accuracy.

 

On the other hand, Ceramic tiles generally offer fewer design options and may not have the same level of detail as Porcelain tiles. However, they are still available in a variety of colours, patterns, and finishes, and maybe a more cost-effective option for certain design applications.

Fire-Resistance

 

Porcelain tiles are made by heating at high temperatures, which results in a hard surface. This makes them more fire-resistant than Ceramic tiles.

 

Ceramic tiles, on the other hand, are made by a process that does not reach the high temperatures required to make them fully vitrified. As a result, they are less fire-resistant than Porcelain tiles and may be more prone to melting or warping in high-heat environments.

 

It's important to note that both types of tiles can provide some level of fire resistance. 

Cost Effective

 

The cost-effectiveness of Porcelain tiles vs Ceramic tiles can vary depending on the specific requirements of the project, including budget, durability, fire resistance, and design needs.

 

In general, Ceramic tiles tend to be less expensive than Porcelain tiles due to differences in the manufacturing process and the materials used. This makes them less expensive to produce and purchase.

 

However, Porcelain tiles have several advantages, including durability, stain resistance, and fire resistance, that can offset their higher cost over the long term. Additionally, the high-quality finish and design options available with Porcelain tiles may make them a more cost-effective option for certain design applications, such as high-end residential or commercial projects.

Slip Resistance 

 

Porcelain tiles are denser and harder than Ceramic tiles, and they often have a smooth surface finish, which can make them more slippery when wet. However, some manufacturers offer Porcelain tiles with a textured or matte finish, which can increase their slip resistance. Some Ceramic tiles are specifically designed for use in wet areas, such as bathrooms or swimming pools, and are made with a slip-resistant surface finish.

 

When considering the slip resistance of tiles, it's important to consider the specific application and the amount of foot traffic that the tiles will be exposed to. For example, tiles in a high-traffic area or a wet environment may need to have a higher level of slip resistance to ensure safety.

Fragile

 

Porcelain tiles are stronger and harder than ceramic (non-vitrified) tiles. Ceramic tiles may have a more porous or brittle surface. As a result, they are more fragile and prone to breaking or chipping under extreme conditions such as the outdoor environment.

 

It's important to note that both Porcelain and Ceramic tiles can be prone to breaking or chipping if they are subjected to impact or heavy foot traffic. To minimize the risk of damage, it's important to follow the manufacturer's installation and maintenance guidelines, as well as to choose the right tile for the specific application.

Installation 

 

Both types of tiles can be installed using traditional tile-setting techniques, including mortar and grout. However, Porcelain tiles are harder than Ceramic tiles, which can make them more difficult to cut and shape during the installation process.

 

Porcelain tiles are often thicker and heavier than Ceramic tiles, which can increase the amount of time and effort required to install them. This may also have an impact on the cost of installation, as it may require additional materials and labour. On the other hand, Ceramic tiles are often lighter and easier to cut and shape, which can make them easier to install.

 

Understand Your Tile Need First

 

It's important to note that both Ceramic and Porcelain tiles can be used in a variety of environments. The best option for you will depend on your specific requirements of the project, including the intended use, traffic levels, and environmental conditions. Leading Indian tile brands like H&R Johnson offer expert advice for your needs of ceramic or porcelain tiles.

 

For starters, porcelain tiles are often used in high-traffic areas, such as shopping centres, commercial kitchens, and public restrooms. Ceramics, on the other hand, are often used in areas where a more traditional or natural look is desired, such as in residential kitchens and bathrooms. Porcelain has a variety of unique designs coupled with a range of matt finish textures which provide a luxurious appeal to the indoors.

 

Importance of Tile Grouts While Laying Tiles

The procedure of flooring and fixing work, as well as floor polishing, is a skilled job. Good tiles improve the appearance of a home. Tiles are commonly used as flooring in kitchens, bathrooms, parking lots, and rooftops, as well as tabletops in dining rooms. We can use tiles for any decorating style because they come in a variety of sizes, shapes, colours, and textures.

When choosing materials, consider the subfloor's integrity as well as the quantity of foot traffic the tiled area will obtain. The components you'll need also rely on whether you're installing floor tile in a wet area like a bathroom or a dry area like a living room. Using the proper materials will not only ensure a smooth installation but will also keep your floor tile looking gorgeous for many years to come.

When it comes to tile, there appear to be an infinite number of options, including various materials, colours, patterns, shapes, and sizes. The style of your room and the look you want to achieve with the renovation will help you decide which tile to use.

 Tiles are available in a variety of colours and designs, as well as hardness ratings. Ceramic tiles are rated and classified according to a hardness scale. Group 0 tiles should not be used on the floor, whereas Group 1 tiles can withstand light foot traffic. Group 5 tiles are durable even in high-traffic areas. Choose a tile that can withstand the amount of foot traffic in the area.

There are many different types of grouts available today, and we'd like to go over some of the most common ones used in tile and stone installations. We'll also discuss tile grout colours and why using grout is a good idea. But first, let's define grout.

What is Tile Grout?

A grout is any viscous, packed substance that can be used to fill the gap between two building components to bond them together or to create a watertight seal. Grout is used to filling in the gaps between the tiles after they have been installed.

Grout is a crucial component of any installation service and choosing the right grout can mean the difference between a beautiful, long-lasting installation and one that quickly degrades into an eyesore.

You need to use the grout mix to fill gaps between the ceramic tile installation or as reinforcement. Using appropriate grout mix will help you with:

- Waterproofing the tiled surface

- Safeguarding tiles from water, grease or mould damage

- Strengthening the tile installation

Grouts are used in a variety of applications, including crack repair, water-stopping in submerged structures such as canals and tunnels, filling seams between tiles, and soil stabilization.

We have provided information on the various types of grouts used in the crack repair. Grout is distinguished by its low viscosity and lack of lime (which is added to mortar to increase pliability). Tile grout, flooring grout, resin grout, non-shrink grout, structural grout, and thixotropic grout are all different types of grouts you can use based on your specific application needs.

Tiles are frequently laid with the least spacing of 3mm on floors. The standard spacing for large format tiles is 5 mm. The wall tile widths begin at 2mm and match the floor tile widths. Grout is applied to fill in the joints after the tiles have been installed.

Types of Grouts

Four different types of grout materials have been available in the market and serve different purposes. The following are the most common type of tile grouts:

- Sanded Grout

Sanded grout is typically used for ceramic tile, stone, and any tile with a grout joint or larger. It is made up of Portland cement, sand, and other additives, and it is mixed with water before being trowelled into the grout joint, where it takes about 24 hours to dry.

Sanded cementitious grouts contain large sand particles that can be seen and felt—they have a gritty appearance and feel. Sanded grout is typically recommended for grout seams that are 1/8 inch or wider, as the sand provides additional bonding power that prevents cracking.

- Unsanded Grout

Small grout joints, less than 1/8" of an inch, are packed with unsanded grout. If you use unsanded grout, you may have to apply a little more pressure to get it into those relatively narrow joints.

Otherwise, your grout will collapse. Unsanded grout must be sealed in the same way as sanded grout to protect it against spills, stains, discolouration, and UV rays.

- Epoxy Grout

Epoxy grout differs from the more common cement grout we've been discussing. Epoxy grout is non-porous and does not require sealing. It also inhibits bacterial growth and is less prone to breaking over time.

- Furan Resin Grout

Furan resin grouts are like Epoxy grouts but have a higher resistance to stains, acid and grease exposure. Furan resin grout gets its name from the furfuryl alcohol which is a part of the mix.

This grout requires some serious skill to apply and is one of the strongest resistances to chemical, physical and thermal exposure. That’s why it is mostly used in industrial settings where these qualities can be appreciated better.

Importance of Grout in Tile Installation

The use of grout has several advantages and may even be necessary while installing ceramic tiles, especially with indoor tiles:

● It gives your floor or wall a clean, finished look. It prevents dirt and debris from getting between and beneath your tiles.

● It increases the rigidity and strength of the tile installation.

● Grout guarantees that all lines are linear and that minor differences in tile sizes are not noticeable.

● Everything which falls to the ground will collect in the gaps among your tiles if there is no grout. Even if users try to arrange the same tiles next to each other, it will happen.

● Even if the tiles are close together, they will shift if they are not grouted. Pressure is created when tiles rub against one another, causing the tiles to break or chip.

● Grout holds tiles in place by acting not only as a buffer between them but also by holding them securely in place and preventing movement in the first place.

How to Maintain Grout Lines for Long Life?

Although new grout is appealing, it can become stained, mildewed, and even cracked if not properly cleaned and maintained. When the grout begins to crack and fall, water can seep behind the wall and cause significant damage.

Ceramic tiles can generally retain the same looks for the life of the tiles. However, there is one thing that can put a stop to this: dirty and poorly maintained grout.

Here's how to care for grout, from daily maintenance to grout replacement. Maintain the cleanliness of your grout, extend its life, and avoid costly grout replacement.

The first step is to obtain a good squeegee. Run the squeegee over the tile and glass walls and doors after each shower or bath to remove excess water.

This normal ritual will keep your bath or shower clean and cut down on the time you'll need to spend scouring. But that doesn't mean you can avoid weekly maintenance.

Even if you keep your walls and windows clean daily, you should still deep clean your shower or bath at least once a week (or at worst, every two weeks). Body oils and soap scum can cling to the surfaces despite your daily efforts and accumulate over time, albeit slowly.

Appropriate Grout for Long-Lasting Tiles

Whether you are using wall tiles, or floor tiles, at home, office or industrial complex type and maintenance of grout mean a long-lasting tile surface. Use an appropriate tile grout for your application and your tiled floor, wall or any other surface is sure to last longer and be less of a burden on your pocket.

Kitchen Wall Tiles Design Idea`s For Luxury Home

 

Introduction

Are you ready for a kitchen makeover? You don't have to split a hole in the wall to give your room a new look. Sometimes all it takes is a few tiles and a brand-new coat of paint, and done! When it comes to home improvements, nothing beats a backsplash for making a kitchen stand out.

 A kitchen backsplash is an opportunity to experiment with colour and pattern, as well as add personality to the house's most frequently used gathering space. It's also a small canvas that doesn't cost a fortune to renovate if you change your mind and want to try something new, which is less of a commitment than choosing a kitchen floor tile.

A kitchen backsplash can be more than just a practical piece of armour against unwanted splashes and splatters, whether you are looking for a custom-designed tile pattern, a striking slab of stone, an unconventional material, a jolt of colour, a metallic finish, or a classic finishing touch like subway tile. Consider it similar to a statement necklace or a pocket square—the finishing touch that ties the entire ensemble together.

The perfect backsplash can be the finishing touch that brings your design scheme together for the cooking space of your dreams, whether it's a cheeky patterned inlay, an unexpected metallic backdrop, antique ceramic wall tiles, or classic white subway tiles. 

So, no matter where you fall on the chef spectrum, here are 15 inspiring ideas from designer spaces to make your home's hub the heart of your home.

• Consider Using An Opalescent Backsplash 

The gleaming opalescent tile backsplash in this all-white kitchen, adds dimension to the neutral colour scheme and serves as the perfect backdrop for a show-stopping gourmet oven. Metal tones of bronze, stainless steel, and copper blend seamlessly to create a timeless look in the kitchen. 

• Black Backsplash kitchen 

We love how the bold kitchen flips the script on informality, combining postmodern-inspired lighting with charcoal-colored tiles to create a cozy Pacific Northwest vibe, West Vancouver, British Columbia-style. The backsplash connects the room's dark hues, linking the black back-of-the-island block to the delicate pendant lines.

• You can rely on Marble.

If you want to spend money on a beautiful stone or marble backsplash but don't want to go overboard, concentrate your efforts on the wall behind the stove, where most splashes and splatters will occur. The soft blue-grey paint in this kitchen creates a soothing backdrop for the backsplash, creating an elegant, timeless focal point in the kitchen.

• Bold And Brilliant

A stunning mosaic is created by patterned tiles and is framed by warm sunshine-yellow cabinetry with stainless steel appliances and polished chrome hardware. The kitchen is a sun-drenched utopia, with an abundance of natural light streaming in through the arched windows.

• Layer Green Shades and Backsplash Texture

Shades of green on the walls, kitchen cabinets, and glossy backsplash tiles create an earthy, calming atmosphere in this timeless English country kitchen, which is accented with terracotta pots, rich wood, and brass accents. A white backsplash does not have to be boring or utilitarian. Gleaming white Moroccan Zellige clay tiles add texture and contrast to the warm woods on the floor, island, cabinetry, and chairs of this inviting kitchen flooded with natural light in this kitchen.

• Travel to the coast

A rich blue tiled backsplash, the kitchen from countertop to ceiling behind the stovetop adds contrast to the rich wood wall panelling throughout the casual beach house +Interiors. It's a straightforward, modern approach to coastal design that would work even if you didn't live near the water. 

• Add Some Glitz

The kitchen island and backsplash of this playful, feminine, midcentury modern-inspired remodel feature patterned cement tiles. When you look closely, you'll notice that, in addition to warm metallic touches throughout, the tile is set with gold-colored grout for an extra dose of backsplash glam.

• Squares And Seafoam

The black-bordered tile is what gives the Austin ranch house that charming Texas vibe we all know and love. This calming, light-filled home balances earthy textures with bursts of colour and pattern, referencing both southern and central Texas roots as well as the easy-living houses of Southern California.

• Spanish Tiles In Blue and White 

A step into this kitchen is as exciting as the seaside views beyond its walls. The villa is a fitting tribute to the rich history of the Spanish island of Menorca, with varying colors, layering, mixed patterns, and natural elements. The blue-and-white Spanish tile that runs across the cabinets is artwork in and of itself in this space. Incredible

• Try the Peel and Stick method

This low-cost kitchen makeover looks great and is simple to install. It demonstrates the power and appeal of using pink in the kitchen while demonstrating that you don't have to spend a lot of money to transform a mundane kitchen into something more personal and special.

• Experiment with Geometry 

Geometric patterns can add visual interest to any room. In this otherwise neutral kitchen, to chose a soft geometric tile backsplash of elongated hexagons laid in a vertical pattern with dark grout. The tile runs the length of the wall above the oven and stovetop, adding a subtle sense of rhythm and dynamism that ties the space together while keeping the room light and airy.

• Pattern Neutral 

The neutral kitchen backsplash tile by Exquisite Surfaces serves as a focal point in a Lake Tahoe retreat. The Caesarstone countertop, reclaimed barnwood ceiling beams, stained white oak flooring, and artwork were all painted by the owners' young daughter.

• A classic Carrara marble tile backsplash adds balance to a powder blue kitchen in the Pacific Palisades, California. Organic Modernism provided the wooden bar stools, Viking provided the kitchen stove, and Thanks for the Memories provided the 1920s pendants.

• Originally Inclined 

Nothing says classic like white glazed subway tile, an elegant solution for nearly any interior style—and the kitchen of this idyllic retreat on a remote Scottish island is proof that this simple design endures. This color palette brings in all the romance of its illustrious history—with a dash of pizzazz—with a custom hood and a peacock blue-painted vintage table (not to mention the pop of red flooring).

• Deluxe Art Deco

There's only one word of caution for those going all out on glam style: too much can sometimes be, well, too much. Of course, this understated backsplash provides a grounding neutral blue-toned backdrop to the dramatic patterned flooring and vintage brass pendants. We give a (metaphorical) round of applause to the true star of the space, a weightless backdrop to the main act.

Conclusion 

The importance of good kitchen tile design cannot be overstated. It is critical to design and plan your kitchen so that it is functional for you and your family. This area is dedicated, among other things, to storage, appliance access, appliance safety, and easy access to food storage.

A successful kitchen must meet your and your family's needs. When you are first planning your kitchen, make a list of your priorities. This list will assist you immeasurably in making your kitchen work for you.