Frequently Asked Questions ( Faqs )

What is the Tile?

A tile is a thin object usually square or rectangular in shape. Tile is a manufactured piece of hard-wearing material such as ceramic, stone, metal, baked clay, or even glass, generally used for covering roofs, floors, walls, or other objects such as tabletops

What is the Ceramic Tile?

Ceramic tile is a type of tile that is typically made from red or white clay. Ceramic tile can be used in several areas throughout the house.

Ceramic tile is made of clay that has been fired in a kiln. Ceramic tile is similar to porcelain tile, and while some companies use the terms interchangeably, they are actually very different. Ceramic tile is not as dense and has a higher absorption rate. This means that it is not frost-proof, and it may chip or damage more easily than porcelain tile. Despite these differences, ceramic tile is a very popular choice for floors, counter-tops and walls. The tile is coated with a special glaze that protects and seals it. This keeps the tile from absorbing stains while improving the durability of each piece. The glaze is also what gives ceramic tile its color and pattern. Several ceramic tile designs and sizes are available.

What is the Porcelain Tile?

Porcelain tiles are ceramic tiles commonly used to cover floors and walls, with a water absorption rate of less than 0.5 percent. The clay used to build porcelain tiles is generally denser. They can either be glazed or unglazed.

What is the Vitrified Tile?

Vitrified tile is a ceramic tile with very low porosity. It is an alternative to marble and granite flooring. Vitrified tiles are often used outdoors due to their water and frost resistance. There are four types of Vitrified tiles – Soluble salt, Double charge, Full Body, Glazed.

Which is the best tiles for flooring?

Although ceramic tiles are highly recommended for interior floors and walls, porcelain tiles are more preferable, especially for places that must endure heavy traffic– this includes hallways, kitchen floors, and commercial applications. Porcelain tiles are highly resistant against chipping and scratching.

Is wooden floor better than tiles?

Tile flooring is extremely tough—and tiles are often difficult to crack. … This makes tile flooring moderately more expensive than carpet, but it is less costly when compared to hardwood flooring. Also, depending on where the tile flooris installed, it can add long-term value to your home.

What size tile should I use?

With a larger tile, grout lines are less frequent. … When following this rule, you should also consider proportionate tile for the size of the room. Tiles that are 18 or 24 inches will work well in a small family room or very large bathroom, but could be overwhelming in a very small mudroom or laundry room.

Is it possible to fit new tiles on an old tiled floor?

Yes, it is definitely possible to fit new tiles on top of an old tiled floor provided that none of the underneath tiles are loose or uneven. However it is not advisable as the cost would be high and you would be reducing the headroom (height between the floor and the ceiling). However if you still want to go ahead, then see that the existing surface provides a good grip. If the existing flooring is of glazed tiles then they have to be roughened to give a good grip for the new floor.

Which tile is better ceramic or vitrified?

Vitrified tiles are more durable as compare to ceramic tiles due to their glass-like surface. Ceramic tiles are less strong than the vitrified tiles. Ceramic tiles have low flexural strength which is 20 N/mm2 and low breaking strength which is 200 N. Vitrified tiles are stronger as compare to ceramic tiles.

Where can tiles be used?

Tiles can be used in virtually any part of the house like bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, portico, foyer, drive way, drawing / living rooms, study, lobby, pooja room etc. They can be used both on the walls and floors. Some special tiles can be used in industries too.

What's the best way to calculate the quantity of Tile I'll need?

Length times width of the area to be covered will give you square footage. For most installations, add 5-7% for cutting loss, and enough to keep on hand for any repairs. When the installation is on a diagonal, or when you are using a multi-size pattern, you should add 12-15%.

What are the different types of fixing tiles?

The tiles can be either dry fixed or wet fixed. In dry fixing the tiles are fixed by using conventional cement mortar. In wet fixing this is done by using special adhesives that can fix tiles directly on the existing flooring.

Is there any way to repair chips in the surface of a ceramic tile?

Yes, any good glue (epoxy based) will satisfactorily repair a ceramic tile. But that will only repair; when it comes to looks such repaired tiles don’t match up, as refinishing the surface to match the original tile is the tough part. The best thing would be to replace the chipped tiles along with those adjacent to it.

What is laying with spacers?

Tiles can be laid with readily available spacers, thereby achieving a uniform gap, and the same can be grouted with suitable grouting compounds.

What is the difference between polished and unpolished?

Vitrified tiles come in polished and unpolished finishes. As the name goes, the polished tiles have sheen while the unpolished ones do not have sheen.

What are the advantages of Ceramic Tile over other floor covering materials?

Ceramic Tile is the most durable flooring and facing material available. It is color permanent, abrasion resistant, and will not cut, tear, gouge or puncture. There are no seams to separate, and “little accidents” are easily cleaned.

How do I maintain and care for Ceramic Tile?

No need to wax or polish glazed Tiles. Simply wiping glazed Tile with a damp sponge or sponge mop is all that is necessary for daily maintenance. In case stains persist if it is not removed with detergent, use diluted hydrochloric acid or muriatic acid.

Can Ceramic tiles be used outdoors?

Yes, To be used outdoors, the tile must be unglazed for floor use. Make sure the absorption rate is 0.5% or less.

Can a floor tile be used on wall and vice versa?

We do not recommend because the floor tile is much heavier than a wall tile. It is less porous and absorbent. The chances to adhere to the vertical surface is lesser than in a wall tile. This will result in the floor tile being easily dislodged from the surface and also cracking. However it is an individual’s choice if he is still ready to take risks, he can use the floor tiles on the wall.

Is it necessary that one should use a particular design or colour or size for a particular application?

Well, design, color and size preference is based on purely individual or personal choice or taste. However here are some basic guidelines and tips on selecting the right design, colour and size for different applications.

Will ceramic tile crack or chip?

When tile is installed properly it will not crack. It is possible to chip a tile when heavy objects are dropped on the surface.

What are the different textures of tiles available in the market?

There are different effects/ textures available for Ceramic tiles for Wall & Floor. Majority of them available are listed below:

 

Effects available on Floor Tiles:

Matt, High Matt

Glossy

Semi Glossy

Reactive, Channel

Luster, Colored Luster

Vitrossa

Smooth, Rustic

Opaque, Transparent

Raindrop

Antiskid

Embossed (Temptation, Impression, Creation, Sensation, Elation)

PEI tiles for traffic dependent areas.

 

 

Effects available on Wall Tiles:

Ordinary Screen Prints.

3D effect.

Luster series with special gold and silver finish.

Satin Matt.

Smooth, Rustic.

Embossed.

Opaque, Transparent.

What are the different sizes of tiles available in the market (Wall & Floor)? Ans. Typically the following sizes of tiles are generally available in the market?

Wall Tiles

48×96

32×96

48×72

32×64

32×32

24×12

16×12

12×8

8×6

8×4

4×4

6×6

Third fired luster tiles and listellos.

Wall Borders (Varying sizes)

 

 

Floor Tiles

48×96

32×96

48×72

32×64

32×32

24×12

16×12

12×8

8×6

8×4

4×4

6×6

Hexagonal shaped tiles

Octagonal shaped tiles

Floor Borders (Varying sizes)

What are the recommended sizes of tiles to be used in my house?

Ultimately depending on your house area and the area of the room to be tiled, the exact look and feel depends upon individual tastes. If you are tiling your walls, the general usage is as follows:

 

Kitchens

Small Kitchens: 4×4

Medium-sized Kitchens: 8×4 or 8×6 or 12×8

Large-sized Kitchens: 16×12 or 12×8

 

Corridors: 24×12 or 16×12

External walls: 24×12 or 12×6

Small Service Areas: 4×4

 

If you are tiling your floors, the general usage is as follows:

 

Bathrooms

Small to Medium bathrooms: 8×8

Medium to Large bathrooms: 12×12

Living rooms

Small to Medium sized: 18×18 or 12×12

Large sized: 24×24

Lobbies & Verandahs: Hexagonal or 18×18

Halls & Public places: 24×24 or 18×18

What are the different manufacturing processes involved in the manufacture of tiles?

The tile making process has broadly four routes:

 

Tunnel Bisquet and Tunnel Glost Firing (Also called Tunnel-tunnel or Double firing).

Tunnel Bisquet & Roller Glost Firing (Also known as Tunnel Roller).

Single Roller Firing (also known as Single Fast Firing for producing Monoporosa (Wall) or Monocottura (Floor) tiles)

Roller-Roller Firing or Double Fast Firing.

Where does Natural Stone come from?

Natural stone is formed when mineral sediments are exposed to millions of years of heat and pressure. These minerals make up the variety of colors and patterns that are characteristic of natural stone. Various types of stone, in a multitude of colors and textures, are found around the world. Global imports natural stone material from over 20 countries. Much of our granite comes from Brazilian, Indian, African or Chinese quarries. Marble is frequently imported from Italy, Spain and Mexico. Slate is imported from Brazil, India and China, while travertine and limestone come from Spain, Portugal, Mexico and Peru.

Can Natural Stone be used on the exteriors of homes or commercial buildings?

Yes. Many natural stones can be used for exterior wall cladding, even in extreme temperatures. Proper installation and consideration of site-specific details are essential to success in exterior applications. Because each stone has slightly different physical properties, let our staff assist you in finding just the right fit.

Why is one material more expensive than another?

There are numerous factors that contribute to the cost of each different type of natural stone, including the quality, supply and demand, and even the value of the currency. First quality materials offer the finest processing and the most aesthetically appealing selections, and for that luxury there is a surcharge over commercial grade materials. The size and mechanization of a stone’s quarry are other factors contributing to its cost. For instance, a small quarry will only have a limited quantity of first quality blocks available, which can raise the cost of the stone. In addition, some quarries are located in places where the climate only allows them to operate part of the year, thus reducing their output and increasing cost. Some pricier materials contain semi-precious stones which have a higher market value in other industries. Or a material may be more costly because it requires more skill and careful attention during the processing and fabrication process, increasing the cost of the finished product. Finally, the distance a shipment has to travel to the port before being loaded on a freight liner can also contribute additional cost.

Will my Stone look like the samples?

Briefly stated, probably not. Since stone is a natural and unique product, it will vary in color, tone, granularity, pattern, etc. These variations are expected and are one of the sources of its exceptional beauty. Glenmex can provide samples from the slab or tile you are considering and offer you the opportunity to approve material that will be used in your project. We strongly advise that you take advantage of this opportunity; however, in order to serve you and your customers more effectively, we request 24-hour advance notice so that we have the material ready for viewing. Please call our offices at 91 9662806666.

How big are slabs of stone?

The size of the slabs will depend on the specific stone being considered. On average, granite slabs are 9’ x 5’, although you may find some that are larger. Marble, limestone, travertine, and onyx slabs will usually be smaller.

How Thick are the Slabs?

Natural stones are available in both 2cm (3/4”) and 3cm (1 -1/4”) thicknesses. Consult your fabricator or contractor about which is needed for your particular project.

What is the difference between 2 CM & 3 CM Slab Material?

While there is no difference in the durability between 2cm and 3cm material, one may be more appropriate than the other for your project. In fact, some materials are only available in one of the two thicknesses. For example, in the Midwest granite is more typically stocked in 3cm, while marbles, limestones, travertines, and onyx may only be available in 2cm. While the slab cost of 2cm material may be a little less, it may need to be laminated if you choose a more elaborate edge profile, bringing the finished project cost up to the same price as using 3cm material (which doesn’t require lamination). Your fabricator will guide you to the right choice for your project.

How much does a slab weight?

While the density of each stone and the slab size will affect the weight, 3cm granites weigh about 9 KG per square foot, or about 360-480 KG per slab. A 2cm marble will weigh approximately 240-290 KG per slab.

What are the book-matched Slabs?

When a block of natural stone is processed, it is cut into slabs by a large gang saw which works much the same way as a bread slicer. Once the slabs are cut, they are laid flat to be polished, and then bundled together in the same order at the other end of the processing line. Book-matched slabs are slabs which were right next to each other, but have been polished on opposite sides. When these slabs are placed side by side, you will see that they are a near mirror image of each other–as in the picture below. Veining can be matched up by your fabricator to create one unbroken pattern. Book-matched slabs can be used with stunning results for large kitchen islands or for dramatic wall cladding in a commercial project.

Does marble have to be sealed?

Marble is a porous material, which means it has pores, or tiny holes in the makeup of the stone that air and liquids can be absorbed into. This can be a problem in kitchens, where spills are common. So generally speaking, yes marble should be sealed. How often depends on the stone and sealing process. When your mable is installed, you’ll receive information about the proper sealing methods for your specific product. Typically you can seal marble yourself, the process usually involves spraying on the sealing agent and then using a soft cloth to rub it in. Also note, because sealers wear over time, it is important to clean up spills quickly. If the sealer in an area has weakened, food and liquids can penetrate the stone which can can permanent stains, discoloration and etching.

What is Etching?

In Marble, etching is a corrosive chemical reaction that occurs when an acids interact with the stone. Specifically, marble’s calcium carbonate reacts, and is eaten away. This is not just a discoloration, but actual physical damage to the stone. Etching appears as dull spots on marble surfaces. Theses dull spots sometimes look like small stains, or water rings, but they go much deeper and are more difficult to repair. Unsealed areas could etch if lemon juice or other acidic foods penetrate the stone and remain long enough for this chemical reaction to occur. This is why etching is frequently a round shape, because it’s often the result of a splash or the bottom of a container. Etching is more noticeable on polished surfaces, but it does occur on all types of marble. Etched marble can be repaired by a professional. Usually this means polishing or refinishing an area. For minor etching, there are some DIY products that do a good job of repairing or reducing the visibility of the damaged area. Be sure to check your manufacturer’s recommendations before using any off-the-shelf products on your marble. Please note, marble sealers do not completely prevent etching, so it’s a good idea to clean up messes quickly, use trivets and coasters, and repair any damage before etching has a chance to occur

What is the difference between polished marble and honed marble?

Polished marble is has a shiny, high-gloss look. It’s very smooth and it’s coating acts as a protectant. Honed marble is a flatter finish, it’s less reflective. People often choose honed marble because it is less likely to scratch or etch. A scratch on a matte surface will usually be less noticeable than on a shiny finish. However, honed marble will be more susceptible to stains because the stones pores are closer to the surface. Both options are suitable for most applications, including use in kitchens and bathrooms.

Can you put hot pots and pans on marble countertops?

Marble has a high heat tolerance, but you should not put extremely hot items directly on the stone. A pot or pan right off the cooktop for example, could cause a thermal shock that will crack the marble. Extreme heat can also cause a noticeable color change or minor burn mark on the stone. This is true of most natural stones. You’re not likely to have an issue if you do put something hot on your marble countertop, but it is recommend that you let items cool down or use trivets and coasters to be safe. If you’re looking for a stone with better heat tolerance than marble, try granite.

What's the best way to clean marble?

Use a non-abrasive dish soap and warm water. You’ll want a pH neutral soap, as acidic cleaners can harm marble. Apply a thorough covering of the soapy water and scrub gently. Don’t use rough scrubbing cloths, just a soft towel. Then use a fresh damp cloth to wipe away the soap. Repeat this step until the entire soap residue is gone. After the countertop is completely dry, you can optionally use a soft chamois or microfiber cloth to give the marble a little polish. Make sure the countertop is completely dry; standing liquids (even water) can penetrate unsealed areas and cause etching. There are also marble specific cleaning products and polishes available in stores. Make you’ve reviewed your stone manufacturer/installers guidelines for cleaning your specific stone before using a store bought cleaner.

What are different Kinds/Types of Stone Finishes?

Natural Cleft

Natural Cleft Unique to slate & sandstones, it has a slightly uneven surface that is still usable for flooring. This finish cannot be created, but occurs naturally as the layers are quarried. One side (back side) can be gauged to facilitate ease of “thin set” installation. Some marbles, granites and limestones are available with heavy clefting, suitable for wall installations or paving purposes only.

 

Polished

Grinding, sanding, and buffing produces a high gloss, mirror-like surface. Polishing can be done only on crystallized stones. A polished finish doesn’t affect the porosity of the stone. A polished finish is quite popular as it enhances the color and markings of the material. A stone with a polished finish is very smooth and reflective. This type of finish is used in reception areas, where marble, granite and some harder limestones are laid. The most popular uses of polished stone are in; interior and exterior wall cladding, Interior and exterior paving, Fireplace facing and hearth, Lavatory tops, Residential & Commercial counter tops, Table Tops etc. A high gloss and reflective surface finish that brings out the colors in the stone. The polishing of natural stone follows the same process as honing using finer abrasives. The degree of polish of the natural stone is determined by its mineral elements and texture and not all natural stones can be polished. Usually recommended for wall covering, polished stones are not usually recommended as stone flooring due to their low slip resistance value.

 

Honed

Grinding and sanding produces a smooth, yet not glossy finish. This is best for low maintenance, high traffic applications. Honed finishes unlike polished finishes are not reflective. The honed finish is a satin smooth surface with little light reflection.

 

This finish is often used on walking surfaces and other areas where heavy traffic would wear off a polished finish. Honed finishes are used in interior wall covering. It can also used on the exterior in warm environments, table tops, very light duty residential flooring, etc. A smooth matt to light shine surface finish (depending on the stone). Created using different grades of abrasives under factory conditions, honed stone is the most commonly used and recommended internal floor finish.

 

Flamed

A flamed finish is one of the most popular finishes for external use where slip resistance is a concern. It is produced by applying a high-temperature flame to the surface of the stone which creates thermal shock and causes the inherent crystals to fracture, resulting in deeply textured surface ideal for external surfaces. This finish is mainly used on granites, and will hide surface imperfections and tone variations. In stone with yellow shading such as Honey Jasper it oxidizes the iron components and enriches the yellow to making it pale orange/pink, this create a rich, dramatic effect in originally quiet colors.

 

Sandblasted

This is a rough, but tidy look created by applying a high pressure blast of sand to the stone’s surface. A sandblasted finish creates a finely textured surface ideal for use in traffic-ways. Applying a high-pressure jet of water mixed with sand, this treatment softens the color and characteristics of the original stone.

 

Leather Finish

Available only in some varieties of marble & granite, this finish gives the stone a suede look and feel. This texture is smooth and slip-resistant.

 

Split Face

Mainly used for cladding, this is achieved by splitting stone either by hand or by machine so that the surface exhibits a natural quarry texture. It has a flat back and uneven front surface, and creates the uneven look of protruding bricks. The surface evenness varies with the stone and not all stones can be obtained in split face finish.

 

Veneer Stone

Any stone used as a decorative facing material as wall cladding which is not meant to be load-bearing. Veneer may be made from different finishes, such as split face, cleft, honed, polished, flamed or tumbled.

 

Antiqued

This stone is tumbled with sand, pebbles etc to create a weathered, aged finish. An antique finish gives stone an aged appearance by replicating use and wear. Tumbling & at times acid wash is applied to surface of the stone which etches the surface of the stone. This generally dulls the color of the stone. The surface is then be brushed with mechanical wire bush to make the stone smooth and slightly restore the color.

 

 

Does marble chip easily?

Marble is a softer stone than granite, quartz and many other natural stones. So yes, banging a pot or pan into the corner of your countertop could cause the stone to chip. The beauty and elegance comes with some sacrifices, one of those being you have to be a little more careful. While the stone is sturdy and often used in kitchens, chips are not uncommon. Luckily most chips can be repaired either with a DIY kit, or by a professional.

Why does marble turn yellow?

White marble can turn yellow or brown when the stone is directly it is exposed to water for long periods of time, or if the stone is penetrated by harsh chemicals, including bleach and acids found in some foods and household cleaners. The yellowing usually happens because iron in the stone oxidizes. If the seal on the marble has weakened or worn, water and other chemicals can reach the stones surface and absorb into the pores, which causes the discoloration. Yellowing and discoloration can also be caused if the marble is not cleaned properly. Some cleaners, polishes and waxes that are not designed for marble can leave a build-up that will cause the stone to turn yellow. In most cases the stone can be repaired. It is suggested that you contact an expert for these repairs.

What's the difference between marble and granite?

Granite and Marble are similar in many ways. They are both natural stones, and except for very high-end applications they are close in price. The main difference between marble and granite for many people is simply the look. Marble offers a classic, elegant look that is hard to match. It is one of the lightest and brightest natural stones available.

Can you cut directly on marble countertops?

No. Marble can be scratched. Even sealed marble should not be cut on as any damage to the sealer can allow liquids and food to reach the stone’s surface and pores. This can cause discoloration, etching and damage to the stone. Always use a cutting board with marble countertops.

How far can marble overhang cabinets?

It depends on the thickness of the stone and how much stone is fully supported. Typically, any overhang more than 10 inches will require support.

What do I need to do in order to care for and maintain my new countertops?

Using coasters under glasses and placing hot items on trivets or pot holders will help to keep your natural stone looking like it did the day it was installed. Many food items and drinks may contain acids that could etch or dull your stone. Countertops should be cleaned with a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Do not use any household cleaning products, as this may break down the sealer on granite and may actually damage the surface of marble, limestone, or travertine.

What is the difference between Quartzites and Granites?

Granite is an igneous rock found more abundantly than quartzite, deep in the earth’s crust, providing the base for the many continents’ sedimentary rock. Quartzite consists of a larger volume of quartz than granite—under heat and pressure combined, quartzite is formed from sandstone and quartz, and depending on the amount of pressure to which it is subjected, empty grains of sandstone are stuffed with quartz. This means quartzite is actually harder than granites—on the Mohs scale of hardness from 1 to 10, with 10 being the hardest, granite measures in at around 6-6.5, and quartzite measures in at approximately 7