The ins and outs of ceramic tile countertops
What are ceramic tiles made from?
Ceramic tiles are made from a variety of things, and are made in a variety of ways. This means that lucky for you, they offer the convenience of many design possibilities. However, the most common method, used for the traditional glazed tiles, is to fire clay at extremely high heats. It then has a tough, glasslike surface, and is non-porous. However, the grout you use to hold the tiles together is extremely porous.
How do you clean ceramic tiles?
To clean ceramic tiles the best thing to do is simply wipe them off using a damp cloth and a mild dishwashing soap. You would then rinse them off with a clean, damp cloth. If there are tough spots or stains you would use a mildly abrasive cleaner, but only for those specific spots. If you do not have a cleaner, make a mixture of baking soda and water. Then use a soft cloth.
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To clean the grout you will want to use nontoxic oxygen bleach, lightly scrub the area, then rinse it off.
What are the pros and cons of ceramic tiles?
Pros: One of the biggest pros is that ceramic tile comes in a variety of color, shape, texture, and price. So, you can use it anywhere, or everywhere in your house, from your floors, to your countertops, and bathroom walls and you are going to get a different look.
Glazed tiles do not stain. This is really a big plus if you have children, and thus ceramic tiles are great for kitchen floors with families.
Another pro of ceramic tile is it is very durable; it resists both heat and moisture. That is why it is an idea flooring option for kitchens and bathrooms, as well as a great countertop and bathroom wall option.
Cons: ceramic tiles can make for an uneven counter surface, so they can be hard to clean, or pots, plates, etc. will be tilted or not as stable when on the counter. To avoid this, be sure your installer is a professional, and find tiles that have flatter surfaces, as some are rounded.
Installation is difficult. It is not that it is extremely hard, it is that it takes time and attention to detail.
Tiles can easily chip, scratch, or crack. Because they are ceramic, if you drop something heavy on them, they may crack or chip, or scratch, the good news is, you do not have to replace your whole floor when this happens, just one tile.
The grout that holds it all together stains easily.
It is wise to choose a dark grout so that the stains and dirt do not show as readily. Also, you can seal the grout regularly to keep it from staining. Seals will make the grout stain resistant, but not entirely free from stains, so be sure to mop up spills quickly, and clean your floors regularly. If you do not want high maintenance flooring, choose a dark grout, and seal it twice every year.
Do not use vinegar to clean your ceramic tiles. It can damage the glaze on your floors, and can also weaken any grout sealer you have.
If a tile is damaged, it can be easily replaced, but for the best look you will want to call in a professional tile installer as they can remove and replace it without damaging any of the surrounding tiles.
Ceramic tiles are beautiful, can be very uniquely laid out, and can give your home a look and feel all your own. While ceramic tiles can be used anywhere, ceramic tile countertops are both unique and timeless. So, now that you know the ins and outs of ceramic tiles and how to care for them on your countertop, go look at your different options.
