Allan Wilson asked:


Being a homeowner you know a lot of hard work goes into making the kitchen and bathroom the best they can be. Often when you are in search for a flooring material for these areas which combines strength and durability with timeless good looks, it’s very hard to beat all the virtues of ceramic tile. Often when a single tile on your kitchen or bathroom wall breaks it makes the whole room look completely unsightly.

Large Variety:

Tile products are easily available in unbelievably large options of colors, patterns and textures. The fact alone can be overwhelming when trying to choose the perfect tile to suit your needs. But very often which seems to confuse consumers more than design choices is the difference between the types of tile.

Each and every type of tile is made from a different composition, and that is what determines the tile’s body color, texture and density. Generally there are three basic types of tile: Ceramic Tile, Porcelain Tile and Glass Tile. Among the three, ceramic and porcelain are the ones that confuse consumers most.

Ceramic Tile Installation Methods:

There is various different installation methods used to install ceramic tile. A successful installation of ceramic tiles depends on the proper use of quality installation materials or more commonly referred to as setting materials. Selection of the correct setting materials is as important as your tile selection.

Thin set is most commonly used while installing floor tile over a concrete or similar surface. It is a form of cement or bonding mortar. Thin set is usually sold in 50 pound bags and is relatively inexpensive.

Grout is another method which is a setting material that you will use with any ceramic tile installation. It is the cement that will fill the joints in between the tiles. There are generally two main types of grout, non-sanded and sanded.

Organic Adhesive which is also referred to as glue, organic adhesive is used to install ceramic tile on walls, counter tops, etc.

Latex bonding chemicals are just another way of installation which is primarily mixed in with the thin set to increase the bond strength.

Sealers can also be used for installation must which can be used with tiles that are not glazed such as Mexican and terra-cotta tiles. The installation process for these types of tiles can be quite complex.

Ceramic floor tiles maybe cold to stand on, but are durable, water-resistant and resistant to stains and spillages. They are available in numerous colors, patterns and shapes and are generally made of natural clay, decorated on one side with colored glaze. The surfaces of floor tiles are normally glazed (although floor tiles are not as highly polished as wall tiles), matt or have an unglazed finish.

Unglazed tiles once laid must be sealed with the proper proprietary sealant. The stronger floor tiles come in larger sizes and are thicker and darker on their underside. They are vitrified, that is, fired at a higher temperature so that the particles fuse together. This leads to the tiles being almost unbreakable when laid.

Cutting Ceramic Floor Tiles:

It is always wise decision to buy a few extra tiles, in case a tile cracks or breaks while cutting it to fit, or to keep as a convenient spare in case of accidental damage in the future. The method of laying tiles on a floor is similar to the method for laying them on a wall.

However to cut floor tiles, floor tile cutter with angled jaws or a floor tile cutting tool is required due to their thickness. Use a wooden stick to mark the length of tiles along its length and later it can be used as a tile gauge. It should be kept in mind to allow spacing for grouting.

Laying Ceramic Floor Tiles:

A waterproof, floor tile adhesive should be used which allows slight flexibility when set. Use a layer of adhesive on the back part of the tile and press into the desired position. It is very important to lay the first tile correctly, because its position will determine the position the other tiles.

A batten nailed to the floor can give a straight edge to guide the positioning of the tiles. Plastic spacers or thick card can also be used to regulate the distance between the tiles. These areas will be grouted when the floor tiling is complete and therefore must be equally spaced for neat, accurate results.

Cleaning Ceramic Floor Tiles:

Ceramic tiles do not require polish as they come with a natural glaze or matt finish. Sweep should be preferred rather than vacuum, as the end of some vacuums can scratch the surface.



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m.jeya asked:


The ceramic treat jars feature lids fit securely to keep treats fresh. This dog food bowl treat jar is sure to delight! The dog treat jar features a brightly color, adorable design, large opening for any size treats and seal to lock in freshness. Our Blue Paws Dog Bowl treat jar features a delightful design in a high-gloss finish that’s easy to clean.

 

The beautiful ceramic dog treat jar looks great in any dog owner’s kitchen! This ceramic jar is painted with a red color and accented with a matching handle with red trim so it goes with any space and it has an adorable paw print on the front surface of the jar! Treat yourself to chic and cute home decor while you reward your furry friend with a treat!

 

The versatile dog food treat jar is stylish and decorative, and is part of the Ore Originals collection of pet dinnerware products. The versatile ceramic dog food bowl treat jar blue and red is both stylish and decorative. The neutral color ceramic jar with faux leather handle and black felt trim will add to any home decor. The front of the jar has a subtle paw print decoration and the handle is removable so that the jar can be washed easily.

 

The versatile Ceramic treat jar red by Ore Originals is both stylish and decorative. Our colorful Pet Dishes are made from food-safe ceramic and can be used indoors or out. The pet treat jar is Red and blue with white accents. These lead-free ceramic jars have an air-tight seal that locks in the freshness and flavor of our gourmet treats. Please purchase online http://www.katiewongnyc.com in NewYork city.



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Alan Bullington asked:


Okay, it’s time for your next home improvement project.  This time it’s going to be ceramic floor tile.  Determined to do it yourself and save?  Only problem is where do you start?

Installing tile flooring is a very rewarding project for three reasons.  First, you get that feeling of satisfaction of a job well done.  Buy a few new tools.  Learn a few new skills.  Bleed a little.  It’s great.  Hey it’s hard in many lines of work now to point to what you’ve done.  Here’s another chance to actually build something that you can see and use.

Secondly, it looks great when you’re finished! Nothing you can add to your home adds much more beauty than tile surface.  Ceramic tile and natural stone surfaces add a luxury look of warmth and luster.  The look can’t be beat.

Finally, you’re making a small investment in the biggest investment you’ll likely make, your home.  This is one of those long-lasting investments that you can use as it increases the value of your property.  Adding stone or ceramic tile to your home, makes it easier to sell as well as more valuable.

The only way to get projects finished around the house is to put together a detailed list of everything required to get the job done.  Otherwise, you’ll end up making many runs back and forth to the store and you’ll never get done.  You really need to know every tool, part and piece you need to get the job finished.  The time you spend on your project list will be a great investment that will save you time as well as money too.

For installing ceramic floor tile here’s a list to get you started.

1. What are you installing the ceramic tile flooring over?  Make sure it’s solid and not bouncy.  Often a layer of cement board is the best underlayment for tile.  Put it down first using special cement board screw.

2. Your chosen tile. Maybe the hardest part of a tile project is choosing the tile.  Get about 10 percent extra to allow for trim and breakage.

3. Get thinset or whatever adhesive you choose.  Check with the tile suppler on the recommended adhesive.

4. Tile saw. The tile saw is a must for most jobs.  you may want to rent one.  YOu also need tile nippers and a cutter board is helpful sometimes too.

5. Grout. Get sanded or unsanded depending partly on the grout line size.  What about colors?  The choices are endless since you can get them custom mixed.

6. Trowels. You’ll want notched trowels.  The notches are for regulating the adhesive thickness.  You’ll probably want a small margin trowel and maybe another one or two.

7. The best way to mix thinset and grout is with a mixing attachment and a drill.  Now this is heavy duty work, so make sure your drill can stand the strain.  Don’t forget the mixing attachment.  It’s a big stirrer.

8. Rubber grout float. This necessary tool is used to spread the grout into the grooves between tiles and then to smooth and level the grout.

9. Miscellaneous supplies such as tile spacers, tape measure, a chalk line, buckets, sponges, gloves, goggles.  A rubber mallet is a plus as is a carpenter square and a level too.

Laying ceramic floor tile yourself is a satisfying project.  The toughest part may be gathering the right materials and tools.  Once you get everything together the actual installation is a step by step process.  It’s a process that’s similar no matter what the tile project.

 You can get access to video tutorials showing the professional tricks for installing ceramic floor tile for a fresh new look.

Al Bullington invites you to visit http://InstallingCeramicTile.net for more ceramic tile hints.



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Anthony Braun asked:


In different countries people choose different materials for floor, and their decision is influenced by many reasons – traditions, climate (temperature and humidity), the price of materials and available technology. For example, in the warm coastal countries the climate is hot and the humidity is high. Timber doesn’t like such conditions and also it is not as commonly available as in the countries located further inland. This explains why in such countries the traditional floors are often made of ceramics.

Indeed, in hot coastal countries floors made of ceramic tiles, marble, granite (or even concrete) prevail. Archeologists discover in theses countries huge mosaic floors – another evidence of this tradition going way back in history.

Aesthetics of ceramic floors can be remarkable - depending on the quality of tiles and the taste of the designer. Whoever is interested in the ceramics, should visit the website of Antoni Gaudi – a world-famous architect, the Michelangelo of ceramics. His creations show a combination of large forms with attention to the tiniest details, making his art unique and attracting large number of tourists to Spain.

Like any other material, ceramics has its downsides. Although ceramics is durable, it is an artificially made material which means that with times cracks can appear or coating can be damaged.

Thanks to the latest advances in technology of manufacturing, tiles size can be up to 120×60. Many manufacturers are making tiles that look just like parquet (and are much cheaper!). All in all, I must admit that the standard ceramics is not famous for vivid colors or warm in appearance, which is a shame. Who’s to say that tiles should always be square? Why a floor can’t be made of ceramics shaped as ocean waves or sand dunes?



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anonymous asked:


rst heard about ceramic knives, I couldn’t believe it. I know that ceramic statues that fall shatter into many pieces. Why would a ceramic knife be any different? Boy was I wrong. Ceramic knives are much stronger than I thought.

Ceramic knives are made out of zirconium oxide. They aren’t metallic whatsoever and have a flat, off-white to bright white color. Their composition is much harder than steel. Actually, they’re second only to diamonds, which are the hardest mineral of all. Isn’t that something?

There is another class of ceramic knives that have black blades. These blades start out as white zirconium oxide. With an additional firing process called sintering, they are converted into black zirconium carbide. This process gives the blades the advantage of being even tougher than before. Now they are the strongest knives out there.

There are definite advantages of ceramic knives over steel knives.

?Edge Longevity. Because ceramic knives are harder than steel knives, they can hold a sharp edge much longer. Generally, most ceramic knives can hold their edge for months if used correctly.

?Easy Use. Because they hold their edges longer, ceramic knives are easier to use than steel knives. Less sharpening is required. Not only that, they are so much lighter than steel knives.

?Wear Resistance. Ceramic knives do not stain or rust. They will not become discolored by food acides.

?Chemically non-reactive. You needn’t worry over whether or not your food will taste or smell like metal. Isn’t that great?

?Simple To Clean. Ceramic knives are non-stick. It isn’t ever necessary to use special cleaners or abrasives to get them clean.

Just as there are advantages, there are a few pretty important disadvantages to using ceramic knives.

?Expensive. Ceramic knives are usually more costly than steel knives. This is because zirconium oxide is a fairly advanced material and costs more than steel. In addition, imported ceramic knives, as most of them are, have a high import tax that adds to their price tag.

?Edge Fragility. Quality ceramic knives are not likely to shatter when dropped. They are, however, likely to gain a chipped edge or a broken tip. Even though ceramic knives are very strong, their edges are quite fragile. Cutting bone or anything of similar hardness, then, is out of the question.

?Breakable Blades. If you use your ceramic knife as a prying tool, you’ve got a very good chance of snapping the blade at the handle. Just don’t do it. While your knife isn’t meant for prying, the fact that the blade could actually snap in two when strong pressure is applied leaves room for concern. Use it only for cutting.

All in all, you are advised not to sharpen ceramic knives. When customers purchase ceramic knives, they are urged to let the manufacturers be the ones to sharpen them up. If that isn’t possible, they’re advised to bring their ceramic knives to a machine shop.

Sharpening a ceramic knife is not the same as sharpening a steel knife. It is a whole new animal. You’ve really got to already be a skilled sharpener. However, with good skill and the right tools, you really could sharpen them yourself.

Ceramic knives are truly amazing. They are highly efficient. Usability may be limited, but where you can use it, watch out. They are quite extraordinary.



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Chet Stevens asked:


Some things you need to know

Types of Ceramic Flooring Bathroom Tile Designs

Typically ceramic tile is divided into two types. One is called quarry tile and is made by extrusion from shale or clay that is found in quarries. The other is made from compressing the dust of clay. Both are fairly equal in their look and feel and each are equally represented in wall tile, mosaic tile, and floor bathroom tile designs.

- Quarry tile is a clay ceramic bathroom tile design the lets the natural clay colors stay intact. The color of these flooring tiles comes from the mixture of different clays used as well as the level of heat used to bake them. Unglazed, these tiles are porous and make a great floor because it is very slip resistant.

- Glazed tiles are available in a number of finishes. The ones you want to choose for your bathroom tile design is are the matte or non-slip rough finish. These tiles come in a very high gloss finish as well but these can become quite slippery when wet and not a great choice for floors. If you do want the high gloss appeal, it would be okay to place them around the border of the floor simply for a nice accent.

- Porcelain tile - most people don’t know this but porcelain tiles are simply ceramic tile that has been baked at much higher temperatures. This effect makes this type of bathroom tile design extremely good for busy areas of your home like the bathroom. The reason is that they are much harder and more durable that regular ceramic tile making them a great choice for bathroom floors.

- Mosaic bathroom tile designs are a slight variation on the quarry tiles mentioned about. These tile designs do show the natural colors of the clay but have color pigments added as well. These types of tile are great if you want that earthy look of natural clay tile but are interested in adding a bit more color that available in nature. These tile designs like the quarry tile can be purchased glazed or natural.

A few tips to consider when buying bathroom tile designs

1. Look around at pictures of bathroom tile designs that you like before going to the tile store

2. Think creatively when deciding how to lay out your pattern. A simple thing like laying the tiles diagonally can add a lot of visual interest.

3. Always always always but more tile than you think you need. You will break some or chip some and you don’t want to risk not being able to find the perfect replacement.

4. If you are thinking of laying the tile yourself, keep in mind that the more intricate your bathroom tile designs the more expertise you will need to get it right.

What Size of Ceramic Flooring Bathroom Tile is right?

The decision of what size of the tiles in your bathroom tile design ultimately comes down to personal choice but there are a few guidelines that you might find useful. Ceramic bathroom floor tiles come in many different sizes ranging from small one inch squares to very large tiles of 2 feet. Typically you want to match the size of the square to the size of the room. Large rooms get large tiles and small rooms get small tiles. The reason for this is that if you use small tiles in a large room it can make the room feel busy and if you use large tiles in a small bathroom it will be overpowering.

Why Choose Ceramic Bathroom Flooring Tile?

There is no doubt that ceramic tiles are the most popular in today’s modern homes because there are so many styles to choose from. Ceramic bathroom tile designs are very durable and easy to clean and when installed properly give any bathroom a beautiful classy look.



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Baby Star asked:


I have a ceramic hair straightner that I use all the time. Over time, there is this build up forming like brown tarry stuff on the ceramic plates and I dont know what to use to clean it all off. Plain damp cloth didnt work to get rid of it. I think its all the hair spray buildup on the plates. Does anyone know any store products or something at home I can use that really works to take off all the build up on the plates?

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Steve Knowles asked:


Knowing how to lay ceramic tile is not too difficult, but if you’ve never done it before and aren’t very handy to begin with you might be better off with a professional. Having said that many homeowners have attempted their own remodeling, but the fact remains

that there are some projects, such as installing ceramic tile floors and even painting that are tackled by the homeowner.

When installing ceramic tile for the first time, make sure you do your homework. So why would you install ceramic tile floor? Most people believe, and rightfully so, that installing ceramic wall tiles and flooring is an attractive and hard wearing surface ideally suited to an installation in bathrooms and kitchens.

Some homeowners lay their ceramic tiles in areas other than wet areas like family rooms and dining rooms. These

installations tend to be found in parts of the world that typically have long hot summers and mild winters, or humid tropical climates. The benefit is having a cool, hard wearing and easy to clean surface.

Patience and resilience are prerequisites on how to lay tile, having the correct tools for the job is a must. Preparation is the key. If you are installing ceramic wall tile start with the walls first if you are have a project that involves both wall tiling and floor. Floor tiles are typically thicker than wall tile as they do not require the thickness needed for impact resistance that floor tiles require.

Gather your tools, do a check to see if they are all there. Grout, measuring tape, spongese, adhesive, markers or pencils, glass cutters, tile spacers, rubber mallet, steel square, trowel and buckets are some of the tools you will need.

Pre installation floor and wall preparation is key to a successful install. All old flooring and wall paints must be removed, thorough cleaning of the surfaces and any undulating surfaces need to be leveled off first. Some flooring may require special underlay material which creates a solid secure surface for the tiles to adhere to without the risk of surface movement creating cracks at later date.

Concrete floors tend to provide a surface which is stable to lay on, but if the concrete is new as in a new home, the concrete may settle over time creating splits and therefore cracking the tiles that were laid on top of it. There is not much the installer can

do to prevent this from occuring unless the installer lays a cement fiber board underlay which of course increases the installation cost. in wet areas it is important to install this cement fiber board first for moisture and movement correction.

One of the ways the homeowner can express themselves is by being creative in the design of the tile layout. Many patterns are available which can enhance the overall effect of the wall and flooring. Dull boring designs can ruin a possibly beautiful

installation, so some thought before starting will pay dividends for years to come.

Dry laying a section of tiles before applying adhesive can help in deciding how the design will be installed. You will get a much better idea of how it will look and feel before commiting to final laying. It is much better to do this now than after adhesive has been applied. It can also give the installer an idea as to how many half tiles will be needed and can reveal some difficult cuts that may be required.

Installing Ceramic Tile

This is where the tires hit the road. No amount of preparation can help an installer who does not get this right. The skill required to lay ceramic tile is understated, having the right knowledge can make an installation look and feel 100% better than an installation by someone who did not do their homework prior to commencement.

Cutting and fitting tiles is one area most homeowners need instruction on how to best trim and cut those tiles. It can take some skill to get the right cut to fit around those protrusions like bathroom pipes and electrical fittings. This is one area that screams of a poor installation if not done properly. The right tools for the job here really do make a difference. Tile cutters and glass cutters are a must, further tools if required could include an electric wet saw but these tend to be only used by professional tile installers or on large projects.

After installing a few rows of tiles, set them into the adhesive with the tile leveler and a mallet. After setting all the whole tiles across the room, start to cut tiles to fit around the perimeter of the room. Tiles can be snapped by hand or with tile nippers, tile cutters or using a wet saw.

The grouting of the laid surface is a somewhat pleasurable experience as it signifies the impending completion of the project. After applying the grout clean the surface with a damp sponge. Finish seams with some silicone sealant in appropriate areas smoothing the sealant with a wet finger.

Allow all work surfaces time to cure and set, a week is normally enough time to consider it ready for full human encroachment. Stand back and observe a job well done. Of course, all the above is just barely a fraction of what information a homemaker will need to ensure an impressive installation. Reading up and gathering detailed instruction on ceramic tile installation beforehand will be the prerequisite of a wise and successful project.



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tommy lampini asked:


I have a kitchen with ceramic tile that is a sick grey color. I’ve remodeled the kitchen and the grey ceramic tile floor just doesn’t go well. I’d like to paint it but have no idea what paint to use or if it is practical to even paint it. Is it possible or do I just need to live with it?

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CamsMom asked:


I am purchasing a new home that has dark green ceramic tile and I want to paint my walls looking for any and all color types that will compliment the floor or go well with it. Thanks!

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