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Applying inkjet technology to tiles 1

Applying inkjet technology to tiles

By Architects & Builders, General

Today, tiles can be produced to mimic natural materials like wood, stone or cement, but have you ever wondered how they are made to look so authentic?

Just like high definition technology used on tv screens, digital inkjet technology has transformed ceramic and porcelain tiles to replicate the appearance of different materials, to a level unmatched by other printing techniques such as screen printing and roto colour processes.

This innovation has become a driving force for new tile manufacturing processes and product offerings. 

Applying inkjet technology to tiles 2
What are inkjet technology tiles?

Using advanced high definition technology, tiles can be digitally printed with high-resolution patterns and designs to imitate various textures like wood and concrete, and 3 dimensional materials like marble, granite and limestone. 

This process creates tiles that are varied and have minimal repetition. So, rather than being limited to a few different patterns, you can metres of an inkjet printed tile without seeing the same pattern twice. The image result is almost indistinguishable from the real thing.

How are inkjet technology tiles produced?

Digital printing delivers a much crisper result and superior detail than other conventional tile methods. The process is similar to how you would use a digital printer at home or in the office, but on a much larger scale.

Controlled by a computer, the printer heads dispense specialty ink onto the canvas (tile surface) to precisely duplicate any high resolution image such as natural stone or wood. The canvas is actually the body of the tile, prior to going into the kilns to be fired.

The machine automatically adjusts to create beautiful designs on smooth, rough and even highly textured surfaces that is applied edge-to-edge to fully cover each tile. 

Today, inkjet printers can utilise 8 or more colours, allowing for a greater range of shades and tones to be created on a tile. This innovation in tile production brings amazing detail, contrast and variations in design.

Applying inkjet technology to tiles 3
What kind of designs are possible with inkjet technology?

The design possibilities using inkjet technology are endless. Designers can combine images, overlay them and alter them to create hundreds of different visuals.

You can produce anything from concrete looking tiles, stone, marble, brick and even textiles. 

Using inkjet technology, you can replicate any type of hardwood to create timber look tiles. And the detail is exceptional as the printer can produce knots and graining patterns that look like the real thing. You can also choose from a variety of plank sizes and styles. 

Why should you choose inkjet technology tiles?

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are cost-effective, highly durable and require little maintenance. The same can be said for ceramic or porcelain tiles produced using inkjet technology. 

This makes them the perfect choice for literally anywhere inside or outside your home, in high traffic areas and wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. The tile design options that arise from inkjet technology, means you can have a wood-look bathroom or kitchen without worrying about moisture damaging the floor or wall surface. 

Some of the other benefits in using inkjet tiles include:

  • Potential to imitate any image and surface to create the desired look you are after.
  • More affordable are harder than natural stones such as granite.
  • Inkjet technology improves tile production time and quality.
  • Layering of imagery gives the tile more depth and realism.
Perth’s inkjet technology tile specialists

Be inspired by Ceramic Tile Supplies’ superb range of inkjet technology tiles. Browse our collection, visit our Myaree and Wangara showrooms to view the full range of tiles on display or book a one-on-one consultation.

Applying inkjet technology to tiles 4

Some of Our Inkjet Tiles

Explore Our Range
November 16, 2020
What makes a tile suitable for Commercial use? 5

What makes a tile suitable for Commercial use?

By Commercial Tiles, Architects & Builders

There are a lot of boxes to tick when you talk about selecting tiles for commercial spaces. It all comes down to what tile is available on the market for the look you are after, the budget allowed and does it adhere to the required standards.

Below we will break down a few different types of tiles that are best for commercial projects but commonly mistaken for each other. We hope to help narrow down your search and make it easier to find that exact tile that is right for the job.

We will not cover commercial slip ratings as we have covered this subject in more depth with a selection of examples and options here.

What makes a tile suitable for Commercial use? 6
Glazed Ceramic

All clay based tiles out there on the market can be called Ceramic, as it is the name given to the end result of the clay tile making process (e.g. compaction to firing and all other processes in between). However once the clay base is made and dried the tile can go 2 ways and there are many different types of clay.

To gain a more vivid colour or precise imagery the ceramic tile can be fired with a glaze and image on top. This final finish can vary from matte to gloss and then on top the glaze can be polished to different extents (satin, semi-gloss, lappato, high gloss).

The strength of the glaze will dictate where the tile can be used. For example a high strength glaze gloss tile can be used on the floor or wall but a softer thinner gloss glaze can only be used on the walls. The glazing strengths are rated by a test known as a PEI test set by the tile industry standard.

Unglazed full body porcelain / Fully Vitrified

This is the second direction a clay tile can go. Instead of glazing the tile it can be kept unglazed which is beneficial for commercial use as it keeps the finish colour all the way through the tile. The unglazed tiles are made from porcelain so it can be fired at a lot higher temperature to make a harder stronger finish. This works well if the tile will be worn down over years of use or in a location where it can possibly be chipped or scratched, as these will be hardly noticeable.

These tiles tend to be more basic patterns or solid colours and can still be polished to create different surface finishes.

Glazed Porcelain

Ceramic tiles can be made from different clay types. The Porcelain ceramic tiles are made from a particular type of clay and are able to be dried out more than most other clays which makes them less absorbent and stronger than a standard Ceramic tile clay. Using the same processes the Porcelain based Ceramic tile is then glazed and offer the various different finishes as mentioned in ceramic tiles above.

You may notice the old terracotta glazed tiles or red biscuit tiles are not around much anymore. This is because this type of clay was very soft and porous which limits the life and ware of the tiles compared to the tiles we know today.

 

Porcelain Stoneware

Some wording that is appearing across the European market more and more is porcelain stoneware. Stoneware is a combination of different clay types, one being porcelain, that can only be fired at a lower temperature than porcelain and there for can only reach partially vitrified state. Making it still a strong tile to use in comparison to ceramic tiles but not the strongest against pure porcelain. These tiles can also be full bodied where the clay biscuits are tinted to match the colour of the face image or finish.

The combinations of clays can make it a more cost effective product, especially with the increased popularity in Europe of using 20mm thick tiles for exterior tiling. Many tile shops still call these types of tiles just Ceramic tiles to lower the confusion to customers. Which is why you come across tiles classified as ceramic tiles but can still tick the boxes required for when it comes to strength, durability and longevity.

What makes a tile suitable for Commercial use? 7
What makes a tile suitable for Commercial use? 8

Honourable mentions

Rectified Tiles

All the tiles mentioned so far are made by the clay being pressed in to a particular size mould then fired. But there are two different edges these pressed tiles can be sold with. The non-rectified tiles are pressed into a mould of a specific tile size and stay that size from firing to laying which means the tiles keep the moulds more curved edging.

Rectified tiles however are cut down from a larger moulded tile into their intended tile sizes. The new sharper cut edges gives us the opportunity to lay the tiles closer together with minimal grout joints.

 

Slip Resistant Tiles

As we mentioned at the beginning there are specific standards in Australia that require commercial areas to have the correct slip rating. These slip ratings are achieved through the final finish on the tile glazed or unglazed tiles. To find our more please read our blog or review our slip rated tiles.

Now that you have had a brief rundown on the construction of tiles you can see where certain tiles work better in some applications more than others. If you have any further questions please contact our friendly staff so they can check availability and lead times of the products that will be optimal for commercial project.

Some of Our Best Selling Commercial Tiles

Explore Our Full Range
August 18, 2020
Tile Trends to Keep an Eye Out for in 2020 13

Tile Trends to Keep an Eye Out for in 2020

By Bathroom Tiles, Architects & Builders, General, TrendsNo Comments

Are you decorating your bathroom for the first time or renovating an old, tired look? Either way, we understand the feeling. The new year is time for a new look.

Adding tiles to your bathroom or replacing old ones will keep it looking modern, fashionable, and fresh. To keep this private space looking new, we recommend keeping an eye out for tile trends coming in 2020. Tiles, like paint colours or clothing styles, go in and out of fashion, so you want to keep a finger on the pulse of trends for bathroom tiles.

Here are some trends to look out for in 2020 and tips for tiles Perth homeowners will love:

Decorating and Renovating

If you’re decorating or renovating your bathroom to look more fashionable, you will need to look out for a style that appeals to you but doesn’t sacrifice on quality or functionality.

Finding something that looks modern yet remains in style with the existing home is a challenge many buyers face. But with the right bathroom tiles, you can find something to satisfy your desires and practical needs.

When decorating, one helpful tip is that you can create a light and glamorous bathroom with pastel colours, glass tiles, or more organic looks.

The right bathroom tiles and the right placement also can help change the whole vibe of the room. This New Year, look out for tiles that will make your room look more spacious. Large, airy spaces are the new trend for 2020.

Vibrant and bold looks are also in, so decorate your walls and floors with strong styles whilst keeping them classy. Remember, practical can be pretty.

Style and Design

We have a whole range of tiles on offer, so look out for great designs that are set to be popular in 2020. The four style and design categories to consider are colour, texture, decor, and natural aesthetics.

1) Colour

You want to match your tiles to the colour of your bathroom, whether that is the current colour or a new shade that you’re planning on painting.

Light pastel colours will be popular in 2020. We have a range of pastels and mixed colours for you to peruse, including our Trend glass mosaic ranges and our Solid subway tile range.

Bi-colour tiles and contrasting colours are also promising to be popular as people move toward bold and quirky looks. You can accomplish this by pairing solid colours on the same wall in different patterns and textures.

2) Texture

Textured styles are on the rise. This can be done in two ways; the texture you feel or the visual patterned texture on the tiles. When it comes to feel it is fun to play with the use of smooth, glossy, lappato, satin, embossed or rough tiles. But keep in mind smooth tiles are easier to clean but the rougher tiles have a better grip which can be practical for a bathroom floor. For a visual textural look it is great to use a mix of a highly patterned tile (think floral look, natural stone look or concrete look) mixed with a basic non patterned tile. Check out our Alabastro, Carrara, and Busker series for a variety of textured styles.

This year, textures are important as part of the Bohemian look, which is quirky and artsy. Designers using a combination of textured walls and floor tiles with decorative feature elements.

3) Decorative

Decorative tiles with patterns and shapes on them are popular for 2020. A little bit of bohemian, a geometric shape and the mosaic look are all promising styles for the New Year.

We have a range of mosaics, from ceramic and glass to porcelain and stone. The Scales and Penny-Round series are especially popular and eye-catching.

For decorative styles, check out the Herringbone, Brick Crystla, and Ciment series. Whether you like geometric or floral designs, we have options for you.

4) Natural

The natural look is going to be a popular one in 2020. The top natural materials include stone, concrete, or timber-look. These come in greys, browns, and white tinges. The charm of these simple and effective tiles lies in their organic look.

For stone options, we have a wide selection, from the Chorus series to the Mystone and Scot.

Popular concrete options include the Busker line, Downtown, and Evoque lines.

The timber styles that render the best au naturel look are the Cherokee and Supergres series.

Get in Touch With Us Today

If you’re looking for a new bathroom look, then now is the time to check out tile trends for 2020. Stay ahead of the curve by shopping now for the coming year. You also can stop by one of our tiles Perth showrooms in 2020 and see what’s trending!

December 29, 2019
The Benefits of Slip Resistant Tiles 14

The Benefits of Slip Resistant Tiles

By Slip Resistant Tiles, Architects & Builders, Slip ResistantNo Comments

Did you know that slips, trips, and falls account for the vast majority of accidents and injuries in both the home and the workplace in Perth? The reality is that many of these accidents could be so easily prevented with the help of slip resistant floor tiles. Below, we discuss five of the main benefits of these tiles, currently available at Ceramic Tile Supplies.

Versatility

Anti-slip floor tiles are extremely versatile from an aesthetic perspective. At Ceramic Tile Supplies, you will find a host of different colours and designs to choose from to suit your preferences. Some of our best sellers include Busker Beige, Chorus White GRIP, and Downtown Bianco Matte. We also currently offer the following styles:

 

  • Decorative style
  • Stone look
  • Concrete look
  • Subway style
  • Large Format
  • Timber Look

Therefore, regardless of the type of look and feel you’d like to create, you can achieve it without sacrificing safety.

Durability

Our anti-slip flooring supplies have been manufactured to really stand the test of time. All slip-resistant tiles are certain to last substantially longer than their non-treated counterparts. Therefore, while you may pay slightly more in the short-term, you will be saving a significant amount of money in the long run.

The Benefits of Slip Resistant Tiles 15

Low maintenance

One of the biggest pros of anti-slip flooring is the fact that it requires minimal maintenance. The non-slip coating is designed to remain strong and intact despite the amount of foot traffic the floors receive on a daily basis. This is why this type of flooring is such a sought-after choice among both homeowners and business owners in Perth.

Different levels of slip resistance

Contrary to popular belief, there is not just one level of slip-resistance when it comes to tiling. You will have the option to choose just how strong the level of strip resistance is when buying your tiles. The level you choose will depend on more than just your preferences and budget constraints. It will also depend on where you plan on having the tiles installed.

Here at Ceramic Tile Supplies, we offer three different levels of slip-resistance, namely P3, P4, and P5. These ratings are based on the wet pendulum slip-resistance test. The test makes use of a swinging pendulum with a rubber foot that has been spring loaded. When the pendulum moves through the upright position, the rubber foot comes into contact with the wet test surface and slides over it.

From there, the level of the flooring’s slip-resistance is recorded. P3 is moderately resistant to slips and falls when wet, P4 is extremely resistant to slips and falls when wet, and P5 is about as slip-resistant as a type of flooring can get.

Generally, P3 flooring is perfectly suitable for most residential applications. However, business owners may want to consider P4 and P5 rated flooring for additional safety, especially in areas that are prone to moisture and where accidents are most likely to occur.

Invest in anti-slip flooring today

Here at Ceramic Tile Supplies, we can help you find the right slip-resistant floor tiles for your home or business. The great news is that all of our anti-slip tiles are as stunning as they are functional. If you’d like to know more, stop by one of our showrooms and chat with one of our experts today!

November 25, 2019
In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles 16

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles

By General, Architects & Builders, TrendsNo Comments

 

 

Perth is all about the weather. On average our days are moderate, our summers are hot and our winters are mild. This means the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors at one’s home is abundant. Balmy summer nights, sunny winter days. It’s no wonder we strive to have an outdoor area to suit our needs whether it be for entertaining or just accommodating our family needs.

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles 17

Daniel Lomma Design has embraced our diverse living style and designed The Barnard by creating a living space that draws all living areas together, inside and out. There is balanced flow from the lounge to dining into kitchen as well as kitchen to dining into the outdoor entertaining then garden.

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles 18

How has he done this so successfully? By utilising the Travel South Gold timber look tile on the floor, Daniel created subtle visual separations, without any physical bounds. The timber tile allows for a decking style outdoor finish that is hard wearing and ideal for its environment. The same finish has been extended into the inside of the home as an inlay under the dining area. Inlaid as such into the main floor creates that visual separation and seamless flow from outside in.

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles 19

There are many uses for a timber tile and for that reason it is becoming more and more popular in our homes. The Travel Series from Ceramic Tile Supplies offers various formats and finishes to accommodate for these uses. For example in the alfresco of The Barnard, Daniel Lomma Designs selected a Strutturato (R11) finish, this more grip like finish helps when the area is wet and creates a non-slip, safe floor environment. However within the home a finish like this would be more tedious to clean so a standard (R9) finish was used, blending in seamlessly with the main floor tile finish as well.

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles 20

Another excellent example of location for a timber tile is the floor and wall feature Daniel has designed into the powder room and ensuite. Buy flowing the timber tile from the floor up the wall it creates a stunning contrasting, balanced backdrop to the bath or rich luxe environment for a visitor to the powder room.

Daniel Lomma Design have created a home with thorough thought and insight to how The Barnard will be lived in and how the products used can complement this. A designer will always push products to their maximum and give you a well-conceived design.

 

If you would like to know how this may suit your home contact Daniel Lomma Design or view the Travel timber tile series at Ceramic Tile Supplies Myaree and Wangara showrooms.

 

VIEW THE PRODUCT RANGE HERE

 

Photograpy by Silvertone Photography

 

October 11, 2019
How To Use Large Format Tiles 21

How To Use Large Format Tiles

By General, Architects & BuildersNo Comments

Large format tiles are the ideal renovate solution for any room in your home. Whether you’re looking for flooring, walling, or even decoration, they can be a cost effective and easy-to-install way to get that updated, contemporary look you’ve been wanting.

Here at Ceramic Tile Supplies, we’re one of the premier experts of tiles in Perth. We have a wide range of tiles to suit any room or outdoor area. Keep reading to learn more about how large format tiles can make your space shine.

What Large Format Tiles Can Do

Imagine your bathroom decked out in this stunning Linea Deep Black tile. Its gorgeous, rich colour gracefully off set by minimal, thin white grout lines. Or, picture your kitchen tiled with our Coverlam Estatuario. Its classy marble-effect underscored by an almost identically pale grout colour can create a smooth, fluid space.

Large format tiles contribute to a contemporary, minimalist aesthetic in any room. Our tiles can help transform any room in your house into a space that feels brand new. These tiles are clean, with an unbroken style that makes a space seem more expansive.

By combining one of our stunning large format tile designs with a similar colour grout, you can achieve an even more spacious look. You can create a sleek design that flows to every corner. And, if you choose to use the same combination on your walls, you’ll instantly create a setting that is striking with a flowing, streamlined aesthetic.

Alternatively, you can also choose a contrasting grout colour, to emphasise the simple elegance of the tile itself and create a feature wall.

 

How To Use Large Format Tiles 22

Not Just Kitchens and Bathrooms

Being waterproof and easy to clean makes tiling an obvious, as well as stylish, choice for kitchens, bathrooms and walling, but they’re not limited to these areas. Our large format tiles combine stunning design with versatility, so they’re fitting for many different spaces.

It might seem odd to consider tiling in your bedroom or lounge, but, unless you can’t live without the cosiness of carpet underfoot, having tile in your living areas doesn’t have to mean clinical coldness. Underfloor heating can ensure rooms lose none of their warmth, while pairing free-flowing large format tiles with contemporary, minimalist furniture can elevate a bedroom or living room to new levels of sleek sophistication.

Quality, Resilience and Sustainability

We have a large selection of quality choices from leading suppliers, and we specialise in showcasing the latest in tile design and technology. Despite their size, our large format tiles are thin and expertly made. They have the quality normally associated with heavier porcelain tiles, but in a lightweight, easier to handle form.

The large format tiles still deliver the same resistance to wear, staining and heat. Plus, even though they are lightweight, they also still deliver durability in an easier to use, more eco-friendly way than traditional tiles.

Choosing The Tile For You

If you want to do some research for yourself, our showrooms in Wangara and Myaree have the widest ranges of large format tiles in Perth. On top of that we don’t just sell tiles. If you’re struggling, our dedicated design team and colour consultants are here to offer their expert advice for all your decoration needs.

Our team will also gladly take care of the technical side of your tiling job. Not only can they tell what tiles look great and where, they can also accurately measure up the right tiling to fit in your space and provide you with a quote for your requirements.

At CT Supplies we pride ourselves on our expert advice and attention to detail, so head on over to one of our showrooms for a chat. Whatever room or space you’re working with, one of our specialist staff will be happy to help you find exactly the right large format tile for you.

 

How To Use Large Format Tiles 23

Reliable delivery, reliable contacts

Once you’ve chose the tiles you want, you might need a little help getting them to your home or office and then installing. True to their name, large format tiles are big (ours measure up to 3×1 metres) and can be difficult to transport.

Luckily, our distribution team have their own trucks, as well as years of experience delivering tiles in Perth, while we also pack orders for dispatch to anywhere in Western Australia. So, once you’ve selected your tiles, you can rest easy and let us handle the heavy lifting.

And, when we’ve fulfilled your delivery, we’d be happy to put you in contact with reliable and experienced tilers in your area who can give you a quote on your installation.

Check Out Large Format Tiles Today

Ceramic Tile Supplies Perth has a variety of large format tiles to choose from. Just pop down to one of our showrooms and find out more!

September 23, 2019
Why Should You Choose Under Tile Heating? 24

Why Should You Choose Under Tile Heating?

By General, Architects & BuildersNo Comments

As the cold weather sets in, it can become less appealing walking barefoot across the tiled areas of the house. Speaking from experience, nothing beats the feeling of warmth underfoot, especially on a brisk Perth morning.

Under tile heating is not a new concept for homeowners. In fact, the Romans used to build houses with empty spaces and tunnels under their flooring. Air, warmed by an open fire, would be channeled through these tunnels to heat up homes during winter. Pretty cool right?

Now that we’re done with our mini-history class, here’s everything you need to know about under tile heating in Perth.

How Does Under Tile Heating Work?

Under tile heating is an invisible heating system powered by either hot water or electricity. It is designed to run under the tiles through a network of conductors or tubing to deliver a controlled flow of warmth.

It can be easily installed in virtually any home. And, it’s energy efficient, non-intrusive and frees up your wall space from radiators or convectors. It’s not surprising that it has become quite popular among homeowners in recent times.

The Benefits of Under Tile Heating

A balanced heating profile – The best part of installing under tile heating is the balanced, comfortable heat it produces across the home. There are no cold spots or draughts that catch you unannounced. It also works great for those who have dust allergies as there are no dust movements being pushed around by fans.

Energy efficiency – One of the most popular reasons people choose this system is its low running costs. Its surface area is larger than that of a radiator, which allows it to run at a much lower flow temperature while still heating the floors. Its ability to run at a lower temperature means it’s a cheaper system to use: it can be 25% cheaper with a hot water system and as much as 40% cheaper with an electric system.

Compatibility – Another great advantage is it can be installed across the home – bathrooms, living room,  terrace, anywhere. It can also be installed across a wide range of floor coverings, from marble to vinyl.

Affordability – The combination of energy efficiency and low maintenance costs just screams affordable in the long run. While you might spend an initial larger cost to install, over time, the savings quickly add up. And once installed, you spend close to nothing in maintenance.

Installing Under Tile Heating

By now, you may be asking – can I do this myself? Probably, yes! But should you? Probably not.

Installing heating under tiles in Perth is difficult. That’s why you should work with a qualified installer to guarantee that you choose the right materials, everything is done right, and it’s an economical investment. They’ll be able to offer expert advice and help you calculate the desired temperatures, potential heat loss, the ceiling height and the type of flooring required where necessary. 

If you need help picking the right tiles, get in touch with one of our experts in Perth today at Ceramic Tile Supplies!

 

August 3, 2019
mosaic tiles perth

Tile Design Trends of 2019

By General, Architects & BuildersNo Comments

While other types of home design trends remain steady throughout the years, trends in tiles change quickly. Out of date flooring can really stick out like a sore thumb.

Homeowners looking to update their tiles in Perth should know what the latest styles are; although, they should ultimately go with what they like best. The following are some of the biggest tile design trends you’ll notice in 2019.

Hexagon-shaped

This year hexagon-shaped tiles have become the preferred choice for bathroom floors. The traditional rectangles and squares that have decorated these spaces for decades have slowly been replaced by other geometric shapes.

Hexagons offer an appealing aesthetic that looks good in a variety of colours, textures, and sizes. They’re a great and interesting replacement for your shower floor and the rest of your bathroom.

If you really want to go out of the box, you can try alternating complementary coloured flooring in a repeated pattern throughout the area. Having a bold graphic floor can create a space you’ll be excited to get ready in during the morning hours.

Tile Design Trends of 2019 25

Timber Look Tiles

Wood flooring is a staple in home renovation. However, the upkeep of hardwood has seen the material fall out of favour. Water can easily damage the wood, but people still want the look.

Luckily, timber look tiles has been created to serve as the ultimate solution for homeowners that want hardwood but the not the hassles associated with it. timber look tiles come in tiles that are made to be water-resistant and are durable, saving them from scratching. The material is perfect for areas in your home that experience high traffic.

The appeal of timber look tiles in Perth isn’t just thanks to their ability to deter water but also their affordability.

Tile Design Trends of 2019 26

Marble Subway

While flooring is one of the ever-changing elements of the renovation world, there are still some options that are timeless.

If you’re looking to install tiles in your Perth home, consider white subway tiles. The slightly elongated design of these tiles is still popular in bathrooms, especially in the shower area. Getting ceramic subway tile may just be the best way to get the sophisticated update you need.

A great way to put a modern twist on this classic design is to get this option in marble.

Cement

Sustainability has become more important in today’s society. If you’re a homeowner who’s worried about the environment, you will want to consider installing cement tiles.

The material to make this flooring combines clay, sand, and colour pigments, making them not only eco-friendly but also durable. The use of natural pigments to colour each tile make them extremely customisable. You can ensure that every element of your new room fits your taste and the needs of your space.

Can not find an internal grade cement tile in Perth? Ceramic Tile Supplies can offer several tile collections that are concrete look in a high quality porcelain tile.

2019 has so many popular design trends that it can be hard to create a cohesive vision for your remodeling project. When considering what tiles in Perth to choose, you need to take into account the finish and style that will fit into your home.

Our team at Ceramic Tile Supplies can help assist you with all aspects of your tiling project for your home with our 50 years of experience. Contact us for all your tiling needs in Perth.

July 29, 2019
What Is a Slip Resistant Tile? 27

What Is a Slip Resistant Tile?

By Slip Resistant Tiles, Architects & BuildersNo Comments

When designing a bathroom, kitchen, or any other space that requires a tile floor, one of the key things to always keep in mind is safety.

Surprisingly, bathrooms are one of the most dangerous rooms in a home. This is because of the high rate of slips and falls due to the slippery nature of tile and the increased presence of water. To combat this problem, many companies have started developing slip resistant variations of their tile products.

But what exactly does slip resistant mean? Are all slip-resistant tiles the same? Keep reading to learn the answers to these questions and many more.

Terminology

The first thing you should know when exploring the reality of slip-resistant tile is that not all tiles that are branded as slip-resistant are the same. Tiles that are tested for this quality are assigned a rating or a grade that is on a sliding scale.

It is also important to note that there is no universally agreed upon method for testing this standard although some guidelines are set forth by regulatory agencies in some countries. However, the results from one country do not directly correlate with results collected in a different country.

As a result of the lack of standardised testing of tile for slip resistance, it can be said that the term is rather subjective. Additionally, there are a number of variables that make standardisation nearly impossible, including floor wetness, the speed in which the person is walking, and the footwear they are wearing among other things.

Despite these variables, there is still some use to looking for slip-resistant tile if you understand the standards of quality and the guidelines that producers in your country follow.

Tests

As mentioned above, there are many different ways to test how slippery a tile is, and many different variables involved when conducting this testing. Of the many types of testing, the two most common are ramp tests and pendulum tests.

Ramp Test

This test is actively used in several countries including Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Germany among others.

Ramp tests must always be conducted in a lab. They involve a subject walking across the tiles. Gradually, the tiles are placed on a steeper and steeper incline until the tester can no longer maintain their balance. The steeper the incline becomes before the subject loses balance indicates a higher score or rating for the test.

The typical scale for this test only ranges from 9 to 13 inclusive, leading to a major criticism: each number encompasses a wide range of qualities. Another critique of this test is that it is costly to perform because of the required lab setting.

Pendulum Test

This test, also known as the coefficient of friction test, is often used in conjunction with the ramp test. This test involves a swinging pendulum that encounters the piece of tile being tested at the bottom of its arc. The portion of the arm meeting the tile is meant to mimic either a shod heel or a bare foot. The tile is then given a rating based on how successful it was at slowing the rate of the incoming pendulum.

One large advantage of this testing method is that it can be portable and used on site. This technique does not require a completely controlled laboratory setting.

However, a couple of disadvantages include its decreased effectiveness on surfaces with pronounced profiles and the lack of practical applications explored in which a tile might be expected to operate.

In conclusion, it is important to understand how tiles are evaluated and how they are able to qualify as slip-resistant tiles. As you have learned, unfortunately, it is not as straightforward as one would hope, but now you will be able to make a more informed decision when considering safety in the tiled rooms of your home.

Contact Us

At Ceramic Tile Supplies, we can help you to find the perfect slip-resistant tile or any other type of tile you desire to complete your home improvement project. We are one of the leading providers of slip-resistant tiles in Perth. Although the tile choosing process can be confusing and overwhelming, we will be with you every step of the way to walk you through it. 

Please feel free to contact us at any time. We will be more than happy to discuss your project with you and help you get one step closer to having beautiful tile floors that are aesthetically pleasing as well as safe.

 

April 17, 2019
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