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sarmay_gw

Wood Grain Tile Question

sarmay
9 years ago

Hello,

We live in the Southwest, love the look of wood floors, but know that tile floors are a much better investment in our area (less prone to termites, shrinking, drying out, etc.). We are considering installing a wood-grained plank style tile throughout our house.

I was looking at the various types of wood-grained tiles, and was hoping that someone might be able to shed some light:
1) What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles? Which is the better choice for durability?
2) Some of these tiles are called "full body" and some are "glazed". What does this mean when it comes to durability?
3) Are there special considerations we need to take into account when having plank tiles installed? (differences in installation methods?)
4) Do these plank tiles need to be sealed?

Thank you for any help

Here is a link that might be useful: Wood Grain tiles

Comments (3)

  • OzLovesFloors
    9 years ago

    1) What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles? Which is the better choice for durability?
    Porcelain is slightly more moisture resistant, and more durable than ceramic.

    2) Some of these tiles are called "full body" and some are "glazed". What does this mean when it comes to durability?
    Nothing, really. Full body refers to color all the way through, which hides chips and scratches. Glaze is the finish, verses a brillo or matte finish. The best way to know a tile's durability is it PEI rating. Your salesperson should be able to tell you that per tile.

    3) Are there special considerations we need to take into account when having plank tiles installed? (differences in installation methods?)
    Yes! They are multiple different layouts, staggering is the most important. Make sure your installer knows the difference.

    4) Do these plank tiles need to be sealed?
    Generally, no, only natural stones need to be sealed. There are sealer/cleaners you can get for tile, but it's no needed. You WILL need to seal your Grout lines though.

  • live_wire_oak
    9 years ago

    In addition to the above, you need a very flat floor. Don't skimp on the prep to make it so. And you need to use a medium bedding mortar in order to keep lippage to a minimum. Don't skimp on that either. And don't use an installer that insists that he doesn't need to use it. He's wrong. And he's voiding the manufacturer's warranty.

  • cleanfreak_2010
    9 years ago

    We had this type of tile installed throughout our home six months ago. we love it, but......

    Consider using non-rectified tiles. You will undoubtedly end up with at least some lippage, and those rectified edges can be rather fragile. We have some chipping....we cover it with a brown sharpie pen.

    Don't trust that your grout will turn out the same color as the grout sample. go at least one shade darker than the tile itself....you'll be glad you did.