Ceramic tile is manufactured from powdered clays and sand which is pressed into tile shapes followed by a glazing process. Glazing is the process by which glass-forming minerals combined with stiffeners and melting agents are applied to the tile and fired at temperatures reaching 1,180 degrees Celsius or 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Dyes and silk screening are applied before glazing to create the desired color and/or design. The finished product is durable maintenance free ceramic tile.
Ceramic tile is unmatched in durability and long term cost savings as compared to vinyl, carpet, and wood. Long term costs include material, installation, replacement needs, and maintenance. Other uses for ceramic tile in interior design in addition to flooring are; wall tile, counter tops, furniture, fireplace hearths, and mosaic patterns.
