At Evis Build, we undertake all manner of tiling work. We know that a tiled bathroom, kitchen, or conservatory will improve the look, feel, practicality and hygiene of your space, so our tilers never settle for anything but perfection.
Type of tiles to consider
Although we can help design the layout of your tiles, it may be useful for you to first consider the type of tiles that are available and may be most suitable for your requirements. The two most commonly available types of tiles are ceramic and natural stone, these are detailed below.
Ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles tend to have a uniform look and feel and are less expensive than natural stone tiles. Ceramic tiles are available as either porcelain or non-porcelain.
- Non-Porcelain ceramic tiles are the most common forms of tiles and also the best value for money. They provide a decorative surface, are maintenance free and extremely durable. Non-porcelain ceramic tiles are manufactured from a blend of clays and silicones which are pressed into shapes and then fired in a kiln.
- Porcelain ceramic tiles are generally even harder wearing than non-porcelain ceramic, have natural stain resistance and their colour runs through their body. Porcelain ceramic tiles are usually manufactured in larger sizes than non-porcelain ceramic. Porcelain ceramic tiles are also manufactured from a blend of clays and minerals, but also contain a sand called feldspar which during the kiln-drying process, bonds all of the ingredients together.
Natural stone tiles
Natural stone tiles are manufactured from naturally occurring substances, meaning that each tile will have a slight variation in colour and texture. Natural stone tiles are usually more expensive than ceramic tiles.
- Granite natural stone tiles are formed from a type of igneous rock that is very dense and hard. Its distinctive appearance is due to speckled minerals found within the rock, its unique veining, and the thousands of available colors. Granite is nearly impervious and, once it is polished, resists scratching. It is an excellent choice especially for flooring in kitchens and high-traffic areas.
- Marble is a type of metamorphic rock that has rich veining and is available in a variety of colors. Marble is more porous than granite and is not recommended for flooring unless honed and then sealed on a regular basis.
- Limestone natural stone tiles are formed from a type of sedimentary rock that offers an earthy appearance in both light and dark shades. The surface can be textured or polished smooth. Limestone is less dense than granite and marble. It can be easily stained and is also prone to scratching. It is not recommended for high-traffic flooring applications.
- Travertine natural stone tiles are formed from a type of limestone that offers an unusual crystallized appearance with an earthy tone. Travertine is a soft, porous stone with a natural surface that has pitting or divots. A honed or polished surface can be achieved after filling the surface voids. Travertine is not recommended for kitchen floors, as it can be easily scratched and stained. Special care and surface sealing is required to maintain travertine.
- Slate natural stone tiles are formed from a type of metamorphic rock that is extremely dense and very durable. Slate is available in darker earthy tones. The surface of slate is naturally textured unless a smooth, honed finish is achieved. Slate is an excellent choice as a kitchen and high-traffic area flooring.
Mosaic tiles
Mosaic tiles can be purchased in a choice of ceramic, glass and natural stone. Mosaics can be used across entire walls (and floors), to highlight the boundaries of shower cubicle areas, or simply as decorative borders.