TILE-so many choices

By: Richard Jacks | Alabama's13.com
Published: July 11, 2008

I have done my share of tile work in the past. I have found that I am much pickier about how it looks than many installers who would charge me, and then I wasn't real happy with the solution. However, tile work is hard work and not for everybody. Today there are so many options when it comes to tile. You can categorize these into two main areas: manmade and natural stone

Manmade- this would include the basic glazed, ceramic and porcelain types. This is usually the cheapest, easiest to install and maintain type of tile. However, many times the end result will lack that "something special" or "wow effect".

A few notes about manmade tile:

Manmade tile usually already sealed-so will not need to be sealed before grouting like most natural stone. There can be a few exceptions to this rule-but most manmade tile is already sealed. Easy to clean, since it's usually sealed-it will not stain easy. It's easier to cut than natural stone because the material is constant throughout. Natural stone many times has veins-sometimes while cutting the piece of stone will follow a natural vein. This can cause excess waste. Manmade tile is usually cheaper than natural stone-but not always-it depends on how the tile is manufactured.

A few notes about natural stone:
Usually more expensive. Can give a great look. Usually needs to be sealed (can be given a high gloss look, or a flat, no gloss look). Natural stone examples-travertine (similar to marble) granite tile -a great way to save money on granite countertops! Then there is limestone, onyx, and slate! All are quarried, cut and can be arranged in anyway. Onyx and granite can act as great accent pieces and can be used in conjunction with manmade tile.

The great thing about tile is the design can be completely up to you-make it your own!

We will talk about each category further in August plus tips on installation and design. If you have a tile project on going, or just finished one-send me your picks rjacks@wvtm.com

August is tile month here on my blog. I will be featuring some pics of my own projects, sharing ideas and giving a 101 on tile installation.