Materials & Products
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tiles are fired at high temperatures; they are also part of the ceramic tile line but are composed of much finer clay. The process of firing at a higher temperature and using finer clays makes porcelain tile more homogeneous (through-body coloration, scratches and nicks are less obvious). This process also makes porcelain much stronger and less prone to moisture and stain absorption. For those reasons, porcelain can be used in both indoor and outdoor applications.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles are generally made with red clay-based materials and other natural materials that are mined from the earth. Traditional ceramic tile can be naturally colored and left unglazed, like terra cotta. It can also feature colored or highly designed surfaces, which can be glazed (finished with a glass surface) from matte to high gloss. It is appropriate for lighter-usage areas such as bathrooms and kitchen backsplashes.
Marble Tile
Marble is a natural metaphoric stone formed millions of years ago. Marble is limestone that has crystallized, melted and re-cooled due to heat and pressure. As with most stones, coloring is extremely varied and often accompanied with lots of veining and other mineral deposits. Since it is a soft, porous stone, it should not be used in applications where it will be in contact with staining agents, such as kitchen countertops. Acids such as lemon juice or coffee will etch the stone. Sealers help prevent staining but not etching from acids.
Granite
Granite is an igneous rock formed from liquid magma, the molten rock still found at the core of the planet, cooled slowly to form a substance approaching the hardness and durability of a diamond. Granite's hardness and density are due to the fact that it has been solidified deep within the earth, under extreme pressure. This is why granite is the most desirable for kitchen countertops, given its resistance to staining if sealed, and it does not etch from acids.
Travertine
Travertine is a sedimentary stone and comes in many colors, which can have a wide variation within each color. It is formed by calcium carbonate deposited by precipitation from carbonate-saturated waters such as springs, hot springs and rivers. Water and gases percolating through the stone give travertine its characteristic holes, which are sometimes filled by the factory. Travertine is available in polished, honed and antique finishes.
Glass Tiles
Are you looking for that clean contemporary look? Try glass tiles. Glass tiles look great with under-cabinet lighting in your kitchen or as an accent liner or dot. The translucent quality of glass tiles compliments the elegance of the tile or the natural beauty of the stone. Entire walls have been installed with a retro theme or mosaic pattern. Glass tiles are so versatile their use is virtually unlimited.
Slate
Slate is a hard, fine-grained stone formed from clay that is folded and compressed by movements in the earth’s surface. Since it is composed of layers, there is usually a vast color variation from layer to layer. It is best known as a material that offers a unique rustic, weathered look with a range from multicolor within one piece to a more uniform range.
Limestone
Limestone is a sedimentary rock consisting primarily of calcium carbonate. The texture varies from coarse to fine as most limestone is formed by the accumulation and compaction of fossil shells or other calcium carbonate-based marine organisms. Limestone is more consistent in color.
Quartzite
Quartzite is a hard metamorphic rock consisting essentially of interlocking quartz crystals. It can be used for interior or exterior uses, such as floors, BBQs, patios, decks or fireplaces.
