What types of floor tiles are there? About the quality and types of floor tiles. Stone effect floor tiles

Floor tiles has noticeable differences from other types of floor coverings. It has low wear, has high strength, and also has the ability to withstand very large weight loads. To calculate the number of tiles, you can use the tile calculator.

Today, there are 2 types of floor tiles, which directly depend on the production method:

• Pressed tiles- such a tile is obtained during the process of pressing a charge (plastic mixture). The composition of such a mixture mainly contains a certain percentage of filler and binder. The material is manufactured using special equipment (press and forming matrix). A certain mass of raw material is placed in this press, it is given a certain shape, and then the product is fired using a special method. The result is a highly durable product.
• Extruded— this tile is produced in the process of pressing the original plastic mass through a specialized hole, which gives the shape of the future tile, followed by the processes of cutting and firing.

Types and types of ceramic floor tiles.

This type of tile is made by pressing dough from press powder (kaolin and quartz). The structure of porcelain stoneware has a homogeneous structure, reminiscent of the structure of glass. Porcelain tiles are used for technical application(floors in rooms with considerable loads, in public places, in industrial buildings)

Porous or tiles that have a porous base.

This type of floor tile has a high degree of moisture absorption; this degree is considered higher, the higher the porosity of the tile itself. Porous tiles do not have a special name; everyone simply calls them: porous tiles, tiles produced by single firing. It is used for covering indoor floors or for covering indoor walls.

Single-firing, unglazed tiles produced by pressing. This tile has high performance properties (frost resistance, hardness, acid resistance, has a wear-resistant pattern), the body of the tile is painted right through. Metlakh tiles are used in residential and public spaces, as well as on the street. Metlakh tiles in most respects they are similar to porcelain stoneware.

This tile is covered with a layer of colored glass, this layer gives the tile hardness, water resistance, color, shine, ornament, halftone, etc. Glazed tiles are covered with a layer of enamel before the final firing. Unglazed tiles, unlike glazed ones, are uniform in thickness; their surface usually does not have a pattern or decorative covering, but can be colored using pigments. It is used both indoors and outdoors. Decorative tiles- may be unglazed or glazed.

Cotto tiles.

Brick-colored tiles without enamel, up to 3 cm thick, are made from a clay base using the extrusion method. Cotto tiles consist of a fairly porous material that is not resistant to stains and requires constant maintenance. Used to create interiors in different styles, thanks to cotto, they look very impressive.

Extruded and pressed tiles.

Extrusion tiles are made from a dough of clay materials; the dough is given the required shape by pressing it through an extrusion head and a calibrating device. Pressed tiles are made from compacted and press-formed high pressure charge.

Monocottura is produced in the following way: it is pressed, dried, glazed and then fired all together at one time. The tiles have a durable structure, low water absorption, and are suitable for cladding walls, floors and even building facades. Monocottura differs from bicottura in its greater density, the tiles are thicker, stronger, and have better wear resistance. Bicottura or double firing is the traditional production of enamel tiles. The pressed clay mixture is fired, after which a glaze is applied to the surface of the terracotta and a secondary firing is performed.

Clinker tiles.

It is made from several types of clay with the addition of dyes, flux and fireclay. Clinker tiles have low porosity, high strength, wear resistance and inertness to chemical agents. Suitable for both external and interior decoration walls One of the advantages of clinker tiles is environmental friendliness.

Many types of tiles made from synthetic and natural materials are also used for flooring.

• - used instead of flooring carpeting. It is easy to install, easy to replace dirty and worn tiles, but may fade over time. The tiles are laid using glue.

• - refers to synthetic tiles PVC tiles for flooring, which has an increased coefficient of friction compared to linoleum and laminate. Synthetic tiles are durable proper care, but is destroyed by abrasive cleaning agents and has low resistance to high temperatures.

• - This is a product of recycling old tires, such tiles are very wear-resistant, soft and pleasant to walk on. Stacked rubber tiles by connecting using bushings.

• — the tile material contains mineral filler. The material is very comfortable, has large number patterns, environmentally friendly, prevents capillary movement of moisture in the concrete base.

• - is good coverage from the point of view of hydro, thermal and sound insulation. It is made from crumbs of various cork trees. The surface can be natural or using various synthetic and natural coatings. The tiles are laid with rubber adhesive.

In addition, they are used for flooring marble, granite and other types of tiles.

Properties and characteristics of floor tiles.

A prerequisite for laying floor tiles is the absence of defects in the base and its absolute smoothness and evenness.

Base for laying floor tiles:

• Drywall - has the necessary strength and does not require any additional leveling.
• Plywood - requires special treatment to increase moisture resistance. But special material for outdoor use or bakelite plywood, used in aircraft and shipbuilding, can also be used.
• Plastering - in some cases concrete base leveled with durable plaster, but this is only possible if unevenness of less than 3 mm is eliminated.
• Old tiles— the old coating must be coated with a primer; before coating, the loose tiles must be dismantled. The tiles are laid using elastic tile adhesive with high adhesion to non-absorbent surfaces.
• Old paint - it is advisable to free the flooring from old dyes. If old paint cannot be removed, it is necessary to apply a mesh with a puncher in increments of 2 cm, then apply a thorough primer and only then install it using a larger amount of glue than usual.

There is an incredible range of flooring products available in the finishing market. This category has a number of specific characteristics.

Material differences

If you compare floor tiles with regular tiles, it is worth noting that their thickness is somewhat greater. The advantages are the characteristics of wear resistance and strength.

Since most often you need to choose floor tiles for the hallway and kitchen, it is worth considering one more criterion. We are talking about dimensions. In addition to greater thickness, it is necessary to take into account the width and length of the elements. Basically, in a standard kitchen, medium-sized squares are used. But for narrow corridor this option will not work. In other words, take into account the area available for finishing and choose the optimal ratio of cladding sizes.

Porcelain tiles - durable coating

Main selection criteria

To choose the right floor tiles for your kitchen or hallway, consider the basic criteria and then make a decision. These include visual and technical performance characteristics. If everything is more or less clear with the first, the second needs to be analyzed.

One of the most important indicators is the strength of the material. For example, in the kitchen you dropped cutlery. A low-quality coating may not withstand impact - it will remain cracked and chipped. Find out the wear resistance class. The coating must resist abrasion, minor mechanical damage, fading and other negative factors.

There are 5 wear resistance classes:

1. Vulnerable category, suitable for rare use and walking without shoes;
2. Applicable in non-residential premises private houses;
3. Suitable for frequently used rooms;
4. This is a category of tiles for public areas;
5. Abrasion-resistant, used in production.

Correspondence of wear resistance class to the type of premises

In addition, when purchasing floor coverings, pay attention to the following characteristics:

• Moisture resistance . For rooms such as the bathroom, kitchen and hallway, be sure to select a material that does not allow water to pass through and does not collapse under the influence of changes in humidity.
• Frost resistance . Relevant in private homes. Floors can freeze, so it is better to choose a product with a higher frost resistance category.
• Porosity . Prefer dense tiles.
• Hardness . Affects tactile sensations, noise absorption and reduces the risk of breaking dishes when dropped.
• Thickness . When installing the covering, part of the height is hidden. Take this into account when deriving the threshold level.
• Additional features . For example, installing heated floors. Not all coatings allow this.

Materials

When deciding which tile to choose for the floor in the kitchen or hallway, consider all possible coatings, as well as their distinctive characteristics. The following categories are distinguished:

• Ceramics. Suitable for the kitchen, but for rooms with more intense traffic it is better to find a different coating. Made from clay raw materials. Based on strength, it is divided into classes. The thinner and more porous, the lower its performance qualities.
• Porcelain tiles. This is one of the most durable facing materials. It is distinguished by hardness and density. Porosity is reduced to zero, so it is waterproof, frost-resistant and fireproof. The secret of its origin lies in the addition granite chips to ceramic charge and baking technology. The design is distinguished by its realism and the ability to imitate natural materials with precision.
• Stone. Granite and marble are used here due to their durability and decorative properties. But the cost of covering with real stone is high, so this material remains the privilege of wealthy people. Instead, choose an artificial porcelain tile coating of similar texture.
• Concrete. The mixture is based on cement and sand. Used to create street paths and platforms. The quality of the product depends on the specific composition of the mass and the manufacturing method: casting or pressing.
• PVC. This tile is used to cover the floor of the corridor. It is distinguished by its thinness and softness. Laying requires careful leveling of the surface. Flexible coating resists impact and abrasion.
• Cork. Non-standard floor covering option. This natural material, although today its artificial substitutes are also sold. Muffles sounds and retains heat. During intensive use, the coating may become deformed. Not suitable for rooms with high humidity.

Types of tiles depending on the material of manufacture

Design

For the kitchen, a light floor would be a reasonable solution. Blurred textures and ripples are popular. On such a surface, dirt and splashes of water are less noticeable. Or choose a shade to match the set, apron, or countertop.

Ceramic floor tiles are a material that has been used in construction for several millennia. When excavating Babylonian temples, archaeologists often find examples of glazed ceramic bricks, perfectly preserved to this day. And currently there are few flooring can be compared with tiles in terms of wear resistance, practicality and durability.

According to the manufacturing method, all ceramic floor tiles are divided into pressed and extruded.

Pressed tiles are produced using special equipment (knee-lever or hydraulic presses). Before producing a raw semi-finished product from monofraction powders, a working mixture according to the recipe. The mixture includes the main components (low-melting and refractory clays, koalin) and special additives. Used as additives quartz sand, feldspar, perlite, glass, porcelain production waste and various chemical reagents - surfactants, thinners, thinning components. White clays are rarely used for the production of floor tiles, since products made from them are softer in structure.

After pressing, the tiles are dried and sent for firing, after which they are decorated (glazed, engobed and painted). At the last stage, the tile, in addition to its aesthetic finish, becomes waterproof.

In the manufacture of floor ceramic tiles using the extrusion method, after preparing the raw material mixture, the resulting dough-like mass is pressed through a special “mouthpiece” of the extruder. At the exit, a long strip is obtained, molded to a certain width and thickness. Subsequently, this workpiece is cut into separate fragments, which are sent for drying with hot air, firing and finishing.

It should be noted that hand-made ceramic floor tiles, the price of which is quite high due to exclusivity. This material belongs to the premium class and can be created according to the artist’s sketches, created taking into account your wishes.

However, if you want to add a touch of originality to the interior, you can paint the tiles yourself, using acrylic paints for ceramics. If the resulting result is fired in the oven, the durability of the painted motifs will be quite durable, and your economy-class ceramic floor tiles will turn into a “masterpiece” that exists in a single version.

Key Features

The basic physical and mechanical properties of the flooring are indicated in regulatory documents, in Russia in present moment The interstate standard “Ceramic tiles for floors GOST 6787-2001” is in effect. When choosing a tile, you must definitely pay attention to its markings, not being guided only by aesthetic considerations.

The most important indicators when choosing floor tiles are:

• abrasion (wear resistance). Even when laying tiles in rooms with low traffic (kitchen or bathroom in an apartment or private house), it is advisable to choose III class abrasive resistance. Tiles of classes IV and V can be used in lobbies, corridors, as well as in public buildings(shops, bars, shopping centers, hospitals).

• frost resistance. This indicator is important if the floors are intended to be finished in an unheated room (garage, shed, warehouse terminals, etc.). Directly depends on such an indicator as porosity, determined by the degree of water absorption. A tile is considered frost-resistant if its water absorption coefficient is less than 3%. It should be noted that the unique properties of frost-resistant and water-resistant tiles directly affect its cost. That is why you should not be surprised that to finish the pool you will need ceramic floor tiles, the price of which is by no means budget.

• chemical resistance. Particularly important for rooms where you often have to carry out sanitary cleaning. The maximum indicator is marked with the letters AA; such material can be laid not only in the bathroom or kitchen, but also in medical institutions, kindergartens, etc.

Installation of ceramic tile floors

Ceramic tiles on the floor are best laid on a cement-sand base, but laying on existing coverage, if it is without visible defects, strong and even. It is best to strengthen a plank surface by laying a layer of waterproof plywood with additional processing water-repellent primer. It is undesirable to use tongue-and-groove boards as an alternative, since solid wood can bend during use.

Particular care is required in preparing the base if wood-look ceramic floor tiles are used for the flooring. After all, this type of tile often has a textured roughness that imitates the relief structure of natural wood species, which requires ideal alignment of the base.

Currently, special mastics and adhesives are often used as a working solution, on which ceramic floor tiles are laid; you can buy them in specialized construction stores.

When purchasing, pay attention to the special properties of the adhesive composition (frost resistance, water resistance, etc.) and the consumption of the mixture, which are always specified by the manufacturer.

If you decide to lay tiles on the floor yourself, it would be a good idea to familiarize yourself with the basic rules of the job. Detailed master classes on laying ceramic floor tiles, photos of which are presented here, will help you avoid mistakes typical of beginners. This is especially important if a “warm floor” system is planned during installation, which allows you to ensure maximum comfort in your home.

For visual marking, it is recommended to stretch the cord, attaching it with nails to the walls, to a height of 1.8 cm from the floor. After applying the adhesive or mastic with a notched trowel, lay the first tile, called a lighthouse tile, at the intersection of the cords near one of the corners. In order to ensure strictly horizontal arrangement tile fragment, tap it around the perimeter with the handle of a trowel.
The tiles are subsequently laid using special calibrated spacers to obtain a gap of a certain size. Periodically it is necessary to measure the distance from the laid tile to the lighthouse, adjusting the width of the joints, ensuring accuracy of laying. A level that is attached to a long rail for ease of use will also come in handy in your work.

If you have doubts about your abilities, you will have to invite a qualified craftsman, which is more than desirable if the floors are finished with wood-like ceramic floor tiles, which should be laid either completely without seams, or using spaced crosses minimum size and tonal grout. In addition, such tiles will require quite careful adjustment of individual fragments according to the pattern in order to create the complete illusion of natural wood.

First, let's remember how tiles differ from ceramic tiles. In terminology, tiles (tiles) are a type of ceramic tile. In essence, these are one and the same thing, the only difference is in the color of the clay, which is visually reflected in the color of the body of the tile ( reverse side). If you go to the Address of an online store selling tiles, you will see that tiles The body of the tile is white (light), it is white clay. Ceramic tiles have a darker body.

Tile classification

There are two approaches to classifying tiles. The first approach is technological and it is important for manufacturers and professionals working with tiles. The second approach to classifying tiles is purely consumer and is important for the right choice tiles upon purchase.

Technological classification of tiles

Let's briefly look at the technological classification of tiles. Here is the division:

• According to manufacturing technology;
• On the outer covering;
• According to the porosity of the base;
• By body color.

1. Classification of tiles according to manufacturing method

Based on the manufacturing method, tiles are divided into extruded and pressed.

1.1. Extruded tiles are made from a paste-like mixture obtained from a machine called an extruder (pushing mixer).

1.2. Pressed tiles are made from a dry, powdery mixture with the presence of clay. The mixture is poured into molds and under high pressure receive the finished tile.

2.According to the outer coating

Based on their external coating, tiles are divided into enameled and non-enamelled tiles.

2.1. Enameled tiles have a second name, glazed tiles. The surface of this type of tile is distinguished by its shiny surface, variety of colors and patterns on the surface of the tile. Enameled surface tiles are achieved by applying a glass layer to its surface.

Enameled tiles are used for wall cladding.

2.2.Non-enamel tiles have a uniform structure and no gloss in appearance. This type of tile is more often used for floor finishing.

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Classification by base porosity

The porosity of the base affects the moisture resistance of the tile. The porosity is determined by the amount of firing and the manufacturing method.

According to the color of the tile body

The color of the body does not affect the characteristics of the tile, but only shows the composition of the mixture for making the tile.

Consumer classification of tiles

For the correct choice of tiles, its consumer characteristics are more important, which include:

• Purpose of the tile;
• Classification by shape, color, size.

Classification by purpose

This classification divides tiles into tiles:

• for walls,
• floor tiles,
• universal tiles.

There is also a division into indoor and outdoor use. Select tiles for stairs and steps. A separate group includes tiles for pools and paths.

Classification by shape and size

The sizes of the tiles range from 100 to 500 mm, the shape of the tiles is very diverse.

Selecting a tile by icon

When actually purchasing tiles, it is difficult to determine all its characteristics and manufacturing methods by looking at it. To help the buyer, each package of tiles should have a pictogram: symbols showing the purpose and consumer characteristics of the tile.

Explanation of pictograms for tiles

• Pictogram with a foot on a dark background: these are floor tiles;
• Pictogram with a foot on a background: this is a floor tile with increased wear resistance;
• Hand icon: this facing tiles on the wall;
• Pictogram with a snowflake: this tile is frost-resistant and suitable for outdoor use;
• If we see a fire icon with numbers on the pictogram, this is the number of tile firings;
• If we see two identical groups of pictograms on the packaging, this is not a typo. This means that this tile is of improved quality.

Double and single firing

I’ll note right away that the law, the more the better, does not work for firing tiles. Two tile firings are worse than one. And here's why.

Single firing, otherwise monocottura, it's more modern technology firing, which includes all stages of tile production in one technological cycle. Unlike double firing, when the tile is fired the first time without glaze, and the second time with glaze applied, with single firing everything happens in one cycle. Because of this, single-fired tiles are more durable, less porous and suitable for floors and walls. Tile double firing(bicottura) suitable only for interior work for wall decoration.

You spend a significant part of the day in the kitchen or bathroom and, of course, you want the arrangement of these rooms to be... good level. Floor tiles will help you feel more comfortable when drinking hot tea or taking a bath. This article contains useful information about the features of floor tiles, which will be useful when purchasing and installing them.

Floor tiles are usually rectangular plates that have been fired one or more times. The tiles can be square, rectangular or other complex shapes. The tile is multilayer coating and has a complex structure. The first layer is the base layer. Next comes the lamination layer, which reaches about 0.5 mm. This layer serves as protection tiles, therefore must have a durable composition. Next comes the surface, which determines the color of the tile and its pattern.

Types of floor tiles

Based on the type of production, a distinction is made between pressed and extruded tiles. The first type of tile is pressed using special equipment, They give it the desired shape, size, and then fire it. In the second case, the tile is squeezed out through the hole the required form, then they are fired.

Types of floor tiles

According to the material from which tiles are made You can distinguish ceramic, metal, glass and stone types.

Advantages and disadvantages of floor tiles

Advantages:

• hardness (some types of tiles can withstand several thousand tons);
• moisture absorption, the tile does not slip if its resistance is rated at least 8 points;
• long service life; if handled well, tiles can last for about 50 years;
• hygienic, the tile material is germ-free, but only if it is well looked after, after sealing the joints with the mixture good quality, you don’t even have to be afraid of fungus;
• resistance to temperature changes and chemicals.

Flaws:

• coldness, if you have not laid a “warm floor” under the tiles, then you may experience inconvenience with a cold floor, which is especially noticeable in winter;
• Despite the strength of ceramic tiles, it cannot be protected from all dangers. If handled carelessly, it is very easy to cause noticeable damage to such material.

Laying floor tiles

To properly lay floor tiles, you need to prepare for them appropriate surface. We will show you instructions that will help you do this job with ease.

It will be possible to step on the tiles in about two or three days, but after laying the tiles it is necessary to fill the seams and lay the outer rows.

Floor tile care

Clean tiles are a pleasant phenomenon, but short-lived. After a few weeks, the question may arise: “how to care for the material?” General cleaning It is enough to carry out tiling several times a year. To do this correctly, follow these instructions:

1. Run the vacuum cleaner over the floor, removing dust and large debris. Type into a bucket hot water and drop ¼ cup of vinegar there. Dip the brush into the water, then wipe the floor with firm movements to remove dirt from the entire floor surface.
2. The second step is eliminating fat using chemicals. In a bucket with hot water pour detergent(you can choose any one, but it’s better to use one that is specifically designed for floor tiles), mop the floor.
3. Fill the bucket with water again, wipe the floor, removing any soap residue, and wait until the floor is dry. Done, enjoy the cleanliness!

It doesn’t matter whether you are rich or not very rich, whether you like black and white or color, whether you prefer ceramics or metal, you can choose floor tiles according to your taste and price, since the variety of her choice can only be envied. Don't be afraid to experiment and purchase tiles unusual shapes and sizes, the floor will shine with shine and cleanliness in any case!