Ceramic Wall Tile
Grace McDonald
General Information
Ceramic wall tile consists of modular surface units of fired clay and other ceramic materials. These tiles have a high strength from the firing process, making them denser. Ceramic tiles are also stain and dirt resistant, due to their low porosity.
Ceramic wall tiles come in two finishes: glazed and unglazed. Glazed ceramic tiles have a unique texture due to its liquid glass coating on the surface. Since glazed tiles are less porous than unglazed tiles, they are considered waterproof. Unglazed tiles do not undergo the additional firing process in the kiln, and, because of this, mostly come in earthen, more neutral colors and are considered only water-resistant.
Ceramic tile is oftentimes compared to porcelain tile, but they are very different. Ceramic tile is not as dense as porcelain tile and has a higher absorption rate.
Use in Interior Setting
1. This deep blue Moroccan ceramic tile provides great contrast to the natural wood accents and light countertops in this kitchen.
2. This striped ceramic wall tile collection comes in a variety of colors and can be used vertically, horizontally, and even diagonally. Vertical application provides a uniform, modern look.
3. Ceramic tile can be used to create a concrete look to an interior space. Since ceramic tile is non-porous, it is typically applied in bathrooms.
4. Here, a light ceramic wall tile is used in this commercial living/dining space. Lighter choices of ceramic tile brighten up any room.
Environmental Impact
Ceramic tile uses a lot of energy due to the high temperatures during the firing process. Although a lot of energy is required, implementing grog or some glass components for ceramic requires a less amount of energy, making it more sustainable.
Ceramic is a heavy material and can break or crack relatively easily prior to installation, but, once installed, is quite resistant to breakage.
Production and shipping prices can be high and even prohibitive depending on where the ceramic tile is produced.
Ceramic Wall Tile
For installation of ceramic wall tile, it is important to clean any surfaces that the tile will be applied to. Then, a mortar must be applied to set the tile on the application area. Once the tiles are set at the desired spot, spacers will be used to ensure even spacing and alignment.
Testing Organizations:
Porcelain Enamel Institute Rating System - https://mosaictileco.com/explanation-pei.aspx
National Tile Contractors Association-https://www.tile-assn.com/
The Tile Council of North America - https://www.tcnatile.com/
Relevant standards through ASTM:
ASTM C501-21 Standard Test Method for Relative Resistance to Wear of Unglazed Ceramic Tile
ASTM C499-20 Standard Test Method for Facial Dimensions and Thickness of Flat, Rectangular Ceramic Wall and Floor Tile
Sources
1. Knowles, E. & Miller, K. (2014) "A Comprehensive Guide for Selecting Interior Finishes."
2. https://gharpedia.com/blog/properties-of-ceramic-tiles/
3. https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/content/TileShop/pdf/resources/How_to_Install_a_Wall_Tile_01012019.pdf
4. https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/important-characteristics-ceramic/
5. https://theconstructor.org/building/11-properties-of-ceramic-tiles-flooring/34177/