How To Choose Artisan Tile For Your Wall

By Freida Michael


People who want lovely, but easy-to-clean wall surfaces in a home or office turn to ceramic. Custom tile is called artisan tile; they are not only water-proof, but they are a major way to enhance decor. Tiles are also used for an interesting effect on roofs, generally unglazed. They can be placed in many locations to fill a space or create a decorative trim, and spice up any plain room with color and pattern.

Because its surface is easy to wipe clean, tiles are best used for floors and splash backs. They may be as simple as square ones/forms or as complex as mosaics. Ceramic is the most common material used for tiles but there are other varieties such as the ones made from concrete, glass or stone. Glazed tiles are used for interiors such as the bathroom while the non-glazed variety is used for roofing.

As mentioned, tiles are not new and date back 7,000 years or more. They were relegated to the rich however, unlike today. Manufactured tiles are readily accessible; and when purchased in volume, the cost can be lowered. People can choose from thousands of designs and colors as well as among different techniques used. There is no end to the imagination when it comes to tiles.

The grade of a tile is a significant factor in its beauty and price. If you want heavy duty, you opt for grade 1. By contrast, grade 2 is thinner and cheaper. You can use both types for most flooring, but not grade 3 which is brittle and thus to be limited to walls.

While most tiles are factory manufactured, there are some that are more unique and more beautiful than others. These are handmade or tiles customized by artists. Like snowflakes, every one of them is unique. Hand made tiles are made to order and will only be produced according to a client's specification. These pieces are more often more detailed to suit the intricacies of the client.

You buy handmade tiles from a vendor in a small shop as opposed to a retail factory outlet. You can participate in the design planning stage and even witness production. Generally, these tiles are made from solid clay that is cut to specifications. Thus it is handy for hard to decorate places. Following the design and color phase, texture and glazing are added to a dried tile. The color may change during firing. You want something that reflects light as it adds environmental beauty. It is interesting to note that kilns bake tiles at 2,000 degrees.

Once the tiles are created or manufactured (generally of clay), they will be packed and shipped, or picked up by the client. In the designated space, they will be laid out by craftsmen with special skills. There is often a unique order to the design. Proper fitting and grouting is essential. Tiles suitable for walls and floors are to be distinguished. The more elaborate the layout design, the more costly the process.

In choosing tiles, begin with the end in mind. Choosing tiles depends on your intended use. Artisan tiles are best if the homeowner want uniqueness and design aside from the tile's usual functionality.




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