Ceramic tile is the perfect material to cover the walls and floors of various projects. The raw materials that make up ceramic pieces come from clay found within the Earth which are then fused with water and fire from kilns to create high quality tile.
The process in which ceramic tiles are created makes them sustainable, resilient, functional and adaptable to any space. With a myriad of possible design choices and easy installation, ceramic tile is the perfect decorative choice for nearly any space.
There are different types of ceramic materials available based upon their composition and manufacturing process. Deciding which type of tile works best for a project depends on where you want to place them. In order to choose the best option, it’s important to know what types of ceramics are available.
Ceramic tile by Roca. Matier Series – Glossy white tiles combined with floor tiles in grays with a watercolor effect. (12X36”).
Ceramic tile is a material with a high water absorption, ideal for interior floors. The surface is covered by a vitrified enamel in an array of colors. Ceramic tile can be decorated with different designs and textures, making it the ideal choice for vintage looks.
Enamel stoneware by Peronda: Harmony Series, Argila Archivo Collection, Model – Lattice Gres enamelled with neutral base and soft blue decorations (5X5”)
Enamel stoneware, a type of tile material, has a medium-low to low water absorption. It is adequate for indoor use, although it can also be used in facades and outdoor flooring since it meets the requirements to abrasion and frost-resistance. Finishes can vary from glossy to matte and colors can be monochromatic or a more sophisticated combination of decorative motifs to achieve a classic design or a more trendy look.
Porcelain tile by Inalco. Masai Series, Inalco Prestige Collection. Ceramic tile with a natural finish in stone hues (60X60”)
Another type of tile highlighted in this journey through ceramics, is porcelain tile. It stands out because of its low water absorption. Porcelain tile usually comes in non-glazed finishes and earthy tones to achieve a more contemporary look.
Rustic ceramics by Gres de Aragón. Antic Series. Gres rústico (13X13”)
Rustic ceramics are tiles with low or medium-low water absorption, molded by extrusion and generally non-glossy, earth hues. Their special characteristics make them a perfect fit for tiling facades and exteriors. Color irregularities, finishes and edges make for endless decorative possibilities.
Extruded clay by Decorativa. Terracota Manual Series. FM Collection. Extruded clay pieces (12X12”)
A necessary stop on this journey is extruded clay. Generally manufactured in small collections, and in some cases handmade by artisans, this product has very high porosity and installers must be aware of the required maintenance before and after its installation in order to preserve the finish. The colors are earthy with uneven hues and textures for a more worn look.
Complementary piece by Cevica: Mini Seriers. Intallation of white glossy subway tiles with wider length. Mini-bricks in black and red (4X10”) Trim: Listelo Pencil Mini in red and black (.5X8”)
We finish our journey with complementary or decor pieces: listels, bullnoses, moldings and edges are used to complement ceramic collections. Not only are these pieces used for decorative purposes but also have practical uses such as for staircase banisters.
For a look at the varieties of Spanish tiles available from Tile of Spain, check out the Inspiration Gallery for images of Spanish tile.