Tile Flooring

A. Ceramic tile durability is determined from a hardness rating system (0 to 5). A 5 rating is good for commercial application, three is good for residential use, 0 to 2 is good for wall tile.

A. A tile normally made from red/white clay that is kiln fired. It can be used throughout a house and is most popular on floors, walls and counter-tops.

A. Ceramic tile flooring is difficult to crack and very tough. With proper installation, it can last many years. If for any reason a crack develops, replacing the tile is very straight forward.

A. Widespread use of this material throughout many houses says this is the most universal of flooring materials. This is particularly trues in high traffic areas where it can stand up to this abuse.

A. It is not hard to lay tile, but knowing all the tricks of the trade takes a professional. Doesn't it make sense to have a professional install your tile, thus ensuring it is done right?

A. Porcelain tile for high traffic areas is an excellent choice of material. When properly installed it will look wonderful, be very durable and have a great look and performance.

A. Particular classes of porcelain should be used only on walls. Porcelain is glazed and when chipped the porcelain will show through. However, porcelain has greater density than ceramic materials which means a lower absorption rate.

A. This material can be very slippery. One way to avoid this is to ask what the coefficient of friction (COF) rating is for a tile under both wet and dry conditions prior to purchase.

A. For most ceramic tiles the answer is no. Some do require a sealer for the surface to fill the pores of the material. The grout however is cement-based and will require sealing.

A. Vinyl flooring is an excellent choice for both you and your dog. It is waterproof, scratch and stain resistant and is an inexpensive alternative to wood floors.