CERAMIC TILE IS BEING INSTALLED AT AN INCREASING RATE THROUGHOUT THE NEW CONSTRUCTION OF PHOENIX HOMES. IT’S ALSO PICKING UP POPULARITY WITH REMODELS AND RENOVATIONS.
This tile is comprised of mostly natural ingredients. Making it an ideal choice for people choosing to go green. Ceramic tile is also very versatile. It can be used for backsplashes, wall tiling even as artwork (see below).
Over the years this ceramic tile has become much more bold and vibrant. Much of this is due to the type of techniques used in the final phases of the creation process.
Ingredients
Ceramic tile is mostly comprised of humble clay. This is the base of the tile, from there other ingredients and minerals are added:
- Carbonate
- Feldspar
- Kaolin
- Sand
- Water
Once the mixture has been blended it is referred to as the body-slip. The body-slip is then dried into sphere shapes. From there the powder is placed into a mold and pressed down with a hydraulic press. The press creates the shape of the tile while making them as strong as possible.
Heating Process
Using a kiln the tiles are heated to upwards 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Throughout this process the tiles begin to get their vibrant colors and design texture. This used to be a process that would take two to three hours; nowadays it takes less than an hour.
Computer Elimination
This is the process of scanning tiles and eliminating tiles that don’t make the cut. Irregularities such as shape, textures and weak tiles that don’t meet standards are spotted and flagged for disposal.
So, What’s New with Ceramic Tile?
As much as things change, they stay the same. Over the years technology has allowed for a quicker process, but the methods haven’t changed much.
What has changed is the design quality. Inkjet printing has allowed for precise high-definition imprints. This is the technology that allows for ceramic tiles to imitate faux stone or wood.
As it relates to shape, one of the newest trends is tiles that have retro designs and bright colors. This style is slowly replacing the old-school rectangular subway style tile.
With the new printing technology, the sky’s the limit. Tiles that have pop art or comic strips are just some of the new tiles trending the market.
Here are some fun new trends that we can expect to see more of, thanks to the technology of HD inkjet printing.
How Ceramic Tile is Made & Designed
by: Juan Gonzalez, Owner of Gonzalez & Sons Flooring and Design
If you live in the Phoenix area, feel free to contact us for a free in-home consultation to discuss your ceramic tile options. Gonzalez & Sons is a trusted installer of flooring throughout Phoenix area.
