Be Introduced To Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles That Look Like Wood!

Ceramic and porcelain tiles that share a similar resemblance to wood are enjoying a rise in popularity over the past few years. They are also one of the biggest new trends in home decor. However, you should note that these wood-like tiles have always been in the market. Decor trendsetters around the world have only recently found favor in them. This has happened due to the vast improvements in today’s technologies that allow the wood effect to be more realistic than ever. Additionally, these tiles enjoy a more durable nature than traditional wood.

History and their origins

Many centuries ago, ceramic tiles were used to construct clay roof coverings. Today, they can be used on floors, walls, fireplaces, ceilings and even in murals. Ceramic gets its name from the Greek word ‘keramos’ which means pottery. The tiles also have an old Sanskrit root which means ‘to burn’. This is due to the fact that the tiles were placed in a hot oven to ensure they are dry enough to withstand the elements.

Early versions of the tiles were also baked in the sun and kilns were used at a later time to harden the tiles as well as achieve a decorative surface glaze. As time went by, design traditions for both porcelain and ceramic tiles have developed to become more utilitarian and ornamental. In fact, brick-and-tile panels with bright colors are a common sight as they adorn many public buildings and homes in countries like Turkey and Spain.

Differences between ceramic and porcelain tiles

The difference between porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles are not very big as both tiles are made of ceramic. Porcelain tiles are a specific type of ceramic that possesses unique features like high durability and density, and are great for high-traffic areas in a home. Ceramic tiles, on the other hand, are much more affordable and can be easily shaped and cut to fit tight spaces. That being said, there are many porcelain and ceramic tile options to choose from and it is pertinent that you select a style that will suit your home for the long term.

How ceramic and porcelain tiles are made

Clay is used at the start when a tile is to be made. In the past, clay was sourced from a riverbed but it is produced through modern methods today. Clay manufacturers will first select a form of dust that is made out of marble, slate or pulverized rock. Next, the firing process will take place to form the tile body and they are fired again at approximately 240 degrees Fahrenheit to fix the shape.

When the plain tiles are ready to receive its texture, various surface patterns such as fabric, metal, stone and wood can be used on the tile surface. Most of the patterns that are mentioned can be produced through transfer printing which is a process of pressing a pattern into the ceramic itself.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and there will always be someone who appreciates a hardwood tile more than real hardwood flooring. If you are impressed by how ceramic and porcelain tiles mimic real wood, they are certainly the ideal choice for your flooring options!

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