What Factors Affect the Cost of Installing Tile Flooring?

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Tile flooring is a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces due to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance requirements. However, the cost of installing tile flooring can vary significantly based on several factors. Understanding these factors can help you budget effectively and make informed decisions. Here’s a closer look at the key elements that influence the cost of tile flooring installation.

Type of Tile

The type of tile you choose has a major impact on the overall cost. There are various options, including ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and glass tiles. Ceramic tiles are generally the most affordable, while natural stone tiles such as marble, granite, and travertine tend to be more expensive. High-end options like glass tiles or intricate mosaics can further increase costs. The price difference is due to the material’s cost, manufacturing processes, and design intricacy.

Tile Size and Shape

Tile size and shape can also affect the installation cost. Standard square or rectangular tiles are typically less expensive and easier to install compared to custom shapes or large format tiles. Larger tiles may require additional preparation and cutting, which can add to labor costs. Additionally, smaller tiles like mosaics might require more grout and detailed installation, impacting the overall cost.

Subfloor Preparation

The condition and type of your existing subfloor play a crucial role in the installation cost. If your subfloor is uneven or damaged, it may need repairs or additional preparation, such as the installation of a cement backer board. Proper subfloor preparation ensures a smooth and stable surface for the tile, which is essential for a long-lasting installation but can increase the overall cost.

Tile Installation Complexity

The complexity of the tile installation can significantly affect the cost. Simple installations with straight patterns are generally less expensive than complex designs with intricate patterns or diagonal layouts. Custom designs and intricate patterns require more time and skill, leading to higher labor costs. Additionally, tasks such as tile cutting, edge treatments, and grout work can contribute to the overall expense.

Labor Costs

Labor costs vary depending on your location and the expertise of the installer. Hiring a professional tile installer is often recommended to ensure a high-quality finish and to avoid potential issues. Rates can vary based on experience, the complexity of the job, and local market conditions. It’s advisable to get multiple quotes and choose a reputable installer to ensure you receive good value for your investment.

Additional Materials and Accessories

Beyond the tiles themselves, other materials and accessories contribute to the overall cost. This includes grout, thin-set mortar, sealers, and underlayment. High-quality or specialized materials can increase costs. Additionally, any necessary accessories such as transition strips, trim, or special tools for cutting and fitting can add to the expense.

Removal of Existing Flooring

If you need to remove old flooring before installing new tile, this can add to the total cost. The complexity of the removal process depends on the type of existing flooring and the area size. Removing old tiles, carpeting, or other materials can require additional labor and disposal fees.

Conclusion

Understanding the factors that influence the cost of installing tile flooring can help you make informed decisions and budget effectively. From the type of tile and its size to labor costs and additional materials, each element plays a role in determining the final price. If you’re considering tile flooring for your home or business, working with experienced professionals can ensure a successful installation.

For high-quality tile flooring in Peoria, AZ, contact Kennedy Tile and Flooring. Their expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction will help you achieve the perfect look for your space.

How To Install Tile Flooring?

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Tile flooring is a timeless choice that adds durability, style, and value to any home. Whether you’re renovating your bathroom, kitchen, or entire house, installing tile flooring can be a rewarding DIY project if you approach it with the right knowledge and preparation. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the process to ensure your tile flooring installation is a success.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials and Tools

Before diving into the installation, gather all necessary materials and tools. You’ll typically need:

  • Tiles of your choice
  • Tile adhesive or mortar
  • Grout
  • Tile spacers
  • Level
  • Measuring tape
  • Notched trowel
  • Rubber grout float
  • Tile cutter or wet saw
  • Sponge
  • Bucket for mixing mortar or grout
  • Safety gear (gloves, goggles)

Ensure you have enough tiles to cover the entire area, plus extra for cuts and replacements.

Step 2: Prepare the Subfloor

A crucial step for a successful tile installation is preparing the subfloor. It must be clean, dry, and level. Remove any debris, dust, or existing flooring. Repair any uneven spots and fill in gaps or cracks. Use a level to check for flatness, as even minor unevenness can affect the tiles’ alignment and longevity.

Step 3: Plan Your Layout

Plan the layout of your tiles before applying adhesive. Dry-lay them without adhesive to visualize how they’ll fit. Start from the center of the room and work outward, ensuring cut tiles are placed along the edges and corners where necessary. Use tile spacers to maintain even gaps between tiles for grouting.

Step 4: Apply Adhesive and Lay Tiles

Mix the tile adhesive or mortar according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using a notched trowel, spread adhesive on a small section of the subfloor. Press each tile firmly into the adhesive, twisting slightly to set it in place. Continue this process section by section, periodically checking with a level to maintain a flat surface.

Step 5: Cut Tiles to Fit

For tiles that need to fit around corners, pipes, or other obstacles, measure and mark them carefully. Use a tile cutter or wet saw to make precise cuts. Always wear safety goggles when cutting tiles to protect your eyes from debris.

Step 6: Allow Tiles to Set

Once all tiles are in place, allow the adhesive to cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes 24-48 hours. Avoid walking on the tiles during this time to prevent displacement.

Step 7: Apply Grout

After the adhesive has cured, it’s time to apply grout. Mix the grout to a thick, paste-like consistency and use a rubber grout float to press it into the spaces between tiles. Work at a diagonal angle to ensure thorough coverage. Remove excess grout with the float and wipe tiles clean with a damp sponge before the grout dries.

Step 8: Seal the Grout

Once the grout has dried (usually after 24 hours), apply a grout sealer to protect against stains and moisture. Follow the sealer manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.

Step 9: Finishing Touches

Replace any baseboards or trim that were removed before installation. Clean the entire floor thoroughly to remove any remaining grout haze or debris.

Conclusion

Installing tile flooring is a rewarding project that enhances the beauty and functionality of your home. With proper preparation, the right tools, and careful attention to detail, you can achieve professional-looking results. Whether you’re updating a single room or renovating your entire home, tile flooring from Kennedy Tile and Flooring offers durability, versatility, and timeless appeal. Start planning your project today to enjoy the benefits of stunning tile flooring in Peoria, AZ home.

By following these steps and utilizing quality materials like those offered by Kennedy Tile and Flooring, you’ll ensure a beautiful and long-lasting tile floor that you can enjoy for years to come. Happy tiling!

 

How To Become A Flooring Contractor?

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The flooring industry is a dynamic and essential part of the construction and home improvement sectors. As a flooring contractor, you will play a vital role in transforming spaces by installing and repairing various types of flooring, including hardwood, tile, carpet, and laminate. If you are considering a career in this field, this guide will provide you with the steps and insights needed to become a successful flooring contractor.

Step 1: Gain Experience and Knowledge

The first step to becoming a flooring contractor is gaining experience and knowledge in the field. This can be achieved through various means:

  • Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training: Working under the supervision of an experienced flooring contractor is one of the best ways to learn the trade. Apprenticeships offer hands-on training and a thorough understanding of the tools, materials, and techniques used in flooring installation and repair.
  • Vocational Schools and Community Colleges: Many vocational schools and community colleges offer courses in flooring installation and related fields. These programs provide a solid foundation in the technical aspects of flooring and often include practical experience.
  • Online Courses and Tutorials: There are numerous online resources, including video tutorials and courses, that can help you learn the basics of flooring installation. While these resources are valuable, they should complement, not replace, hands-on training.

Step 2: Obtain Necessary Certifications and Licenses

Once you have gained sufficient experience, the next step is to obtain the necessary certifications and licenses. The requirements for becoming a flooring contractor vary by state and locality, so it is important to research the specific regulations in your area. Generally, you will need to:

  • Pass a Certification Exam: Many states require flooring contractors to pass a certification exam that tests their knowledge and skills. This exam may cover topics such as building codes, safety regulations, and flooring installation techniques.
  • Obtain a Contractor’s License: A contractor’s license is typically required to operate legally as a flooring contractor. The requirements for obtaining a license vary, but they often include passing an exam, providing proof of insurance, and paying a licensing fee.
  • Stay Up-to-Date with Continuing Education: The flooring industry is constantly evolving, with new materials and techniques being developed. To stay competitive, it is important to continue your education and stay current with industry trends.

Step 3: Build Your Business

With the necessary experience, certifications, and licenses in hand, you are ready to start your own flooring business. Building a successful flooring business involves several key steps:

  • Create a Business Plan: A well-thought-out business plan is essential for guiding your business and securing financing. Your business plan should outline your goals, target market, services offered, pricing strategy, and marketing plan.
  • Register Your Business: Register your business with the appropriate government agencies, and obtain any necessary permits and licenses. This may include registering your business name, obtaining a tax identification number, and setting up a business bank account.
  • Purchase Tools and Equipment: Investing in high-quality tools and equipment is crucial for providing excellent service and ensuring the safety of your employees. Essential tools for flooring contractors include saws, sanders, nail guns, and measuring tools.
  • Develop a Marketing Strategy: To attract clients, you will need an effective marketing strategy. This can include creating a professional website, networking with other contractors and real estate professionals, and advertising in local media.

Step 4: Deliver Outstanding Service

Providing exceptional service is key to building a strong reputation and securing repeat business. Here are some tips for delivering outstanding service as a flooring contractor:

  • Communicate Clearly with Clients: Effective communication is essential for understanding your clients’ needs and expectations. Make sure to discuss the project details, timeline, and budget upfront, and keep your clients informed throughout the process.
  • Pay Attention to Detail: Flooring installation requires precision and attention to detail. Take the time to measure accurately, cut materials correctly, and ensure that the flooring is installed smoothly and securely.
  • Offer Quality Workmanship: The quality of your workmanship will determine your reputation and the success of your business. Use high-quality materials and follow best practices to ensure that your installations are durable and attractive.
  • Provide Excellent Customer Service: Treat your clients with respect and professionalism, and address any concerns or issues promptly. Positive word-of-mouth and customer referrals are invaluable for growing your business.

Conclusion

Becoming a flooring contractor involves gaining experience, obtaining necessary certifications and licenses, building a business, and delivering outstanding service. By following these steps, you can establish a successful career in the flooring industry and make a positive impact on your clients’ homes and businesses.

If you are looking for a reputable flooring contractor in Peoria, AZ, consider Kennedy Tile and Flooring. With years of experience and a commitment to quality, Kennedy Tile and Flooring offers a wide range of flooring services to meet your needs.

Kennedy Tile & Flooring in Peoria, AZ: Now a Premier Authorized Retailer for Lions Floor

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We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone in the journey of Kennedy Tile & Flooring in Peoria, Arizona. As a business that has always prided itself on offering the finest flooring solutions, we have now joined forces with Lions Floor, becoming a premier authorized retailer of their products. This partnership marks a new chapter in our commitment to delivering exceptional quality and service to our customers.

Founded in 2017, Lions Floor has rapidly established itself as one of America’s fastest-growing wholesale distributors in the flooring industry. Their reputation for providing high-quality SPC waterproof flooring, laminate, and LVP is unmatched. At Kennedy Tile & Flooring, we recognize the importance of aligning with brands that share our values of quality, customer satisfaction, and style. Lions Floor’s commitment to producing classic, stylish, and affordable flooring options aligns perfectly with our mission.

A Testament to Quality and Style

Lions Floor is renowned for its highest quality SPC waterproof flooring. This innovative flooring solution offers unparalleled durability, making it an ideal choice for homes and commercial spaces alike. Its water-resistant properties ensure that it stands up to the challenges of everyday spills and moisture, making it a practical yet stylish option.

In addition to SPC flooring, Lions Floor also offers an impressive range of laminate and LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) flooring. These products are recognized for their superior quality and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re looking for the warm, inviting look of wood or the sleek, modern appeal of stone or tile, Lions Floor has options that will transform any space.

Exceptional Customer Service and Satisfaction

At Kennedy Tile & Flooring, we understand that selecting the right flooring is about more than just the product. It’s about the experience and the assurance that you are making the right choice for your space. Partnering with Lions Floor, we are now able to enhance our customer service by offering a wider range of high-quality products. Our team of experts is always ready to guide you through the selection process, ensuring that you find the perfect match for your style and needs.

Lions Floor’s dedication to customer satisfaction mirrors our own. They have consistently demonstrated a commitment to not just meeting but surpassing customer expectations. This shared ethos is what makes our partnership with Lions Floor so exciting and beneficial for our customers.

Affordable Elegance at Your Fingertips

One of the most remarkable aspects of Lions Floor’s product range is its affordability. Quality flooring is an investment in your home or business, and with Lions Floor, you can rest assured that you’re investing wisely. Their flooring solutions offer the perfect blend of durability, style, and affordability. This means you can achieve the look and feel you desire without compromising on quality or breaking the bank.

Your Go-To Destination for Flooring Solutions

Kennedy Tile & Flooring is more than just a flooring store; we are a team of passionate professionals dedicated to helping you realize your vision. With the addition of Lions Floor products to our inventory, we are now better equipped than ever to serve you. Whether you’re renovating your home, setting up a new business space, or simply looking to update your floors, we have everything you need under one roof.

Visit Us Today

We invite you to visit our showroom in Peoria, AZ, to explore the range of Lions Floor products now available. Our knowledgeable staff is eager to assist you in finding the perfect flooring solution that meets your style, needs, and budget. Experience firsthand the quality and elegance of Lions Floor products and discover why Kennedy Tile & Flooring is your premier destination for flooring solutions.

Join Us in Celebrating This New Partnership

This new partnership with Lions Floor is more than just a business development; it’s a testament to our dedication to providing our customers with the best. We are excited to embark on this journey with Lions Floor and look forward to continuing to serve our community with top-notch flooring solutions.

Come and be a part of our journey. Visit Kennedy Tile & Flooring in Peoria, AZ, and experience the difference that quality, style, and excellent customer service can make in your space. Your perfect floor awaits!

Carpet Dealer Peoria AZ

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At Kennedy Tile & Flooring, we believe that your home is a reflection of you and your personality. That’s why we strive to help you find the perfect carpet for every room in your home, from the living room to the bedroom and everything in between. We have been providing quality carpets and flooring solutions to customers in Arizona for over 20 years and counting. We’re proud to be a family-owned business that has served thousands of customers over the course of our history with pride, professionalism, and an unwavering focus on customer satisfaction.

If you’re looking for a new carpet or flooring, look no further! Kennedy Tile & Flooring have a wide range of carpets and flooring available, in a variety of styles and colors. We can help you choose the perfect carpet for your home or business—whether it’s an office space, school classroom, or home theater.

Installing new carpet can be a great investment for your home. Carpeting is one of the most important components of your home’s interior decor, and it’s also one of the most common ways to improve the function of your space. But is it worth the money? Here are some reasons why installing new carpet in your home could be a smart idea:

  • Your current carpet is old and worn out, and you’ve been thinking about replacing it for a while now.
  • You’ve got kids who track mud into the house every day, and you’re tired of cleaning up after them.
  • You want to change up the look of your living room, but don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on furniture.
  • Your home is starting to feel like an old friend’s house—you know how much they love their old furniture and decorations, but it’s time for something fresh!

Carpet is also very durable, so you won’t have to worry about replacing it as often as other materials like wood flooring or laminate—and it’s easier to clean than either one!

Highly Rated Tile Flooring Contractor in Peoria, AZ

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Finding the right flooring is a big deal. It’s the first thing you see when you walk into your home, and it can make or break how you feel about your space you live in! If you’re planning to do some remodeling and want to update your floors, consider giving us a call at Kennedy Tile & Flooring. With over 20 years of experience, we have specialized knowledge and experience that will help you make sure your floor looks amazing and lasts for years to come.

Here are some reasons why hiring a Kennedy Tile & Flooring:

1) We know how to install tiles in different spaces and with different materials, so we can help you choose the best type of tile for your home based on its needs.

2) We have access to high-quality materials at competitive prices, so we’ll be able to help you find the right tiles for your budget.

3) We have over 20 years of experience working with different types of surfaces (like hardwood) so our staff know what kind of preparation work is needed before laying down new tile.

Kennedy Tile & Flooring is the best choice for your flooring needs. We offer a wide variety of services, including:

  • Flooring installation and repair
  • Tiling design consultation
  • Floor plan design consultation
  • Custom floor patterns

Considering doing it yourself?

You may be tempted to try doing this yourself—after all, it’s just laying down some flooring! But you need a professional for these jobs because:

1. The job is more involved than you think. Just laying down the tile isn’t enough; you also need someone who knows how to seal the grout lines between tiles and make sure that everything is level and flush with each other so there aren’t any spaces where water can get trapped between them.

2. You want high-quality workmanship. Tiling your home yourself may seem like an easy way to save money and get exactly what you want… but do you really know what looks good? Tile contractors have years of experience behind them—and no matter what kind of tile they use, they’ll spend time making sure everything looks perfect before they leave. That’s not something an amateur can do!

Porcelain Wood Look Tile vs Luxury Vinyl Plank

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Porcelain Wood Look Tile and Luxury Vinyl Plank – What’s the difference?

Maybe you’re renovating your house, maybe you just fancy a change, and you love the look of hardwood flooring but don’t want to deal with the high upkeep and the issues with water and moisture.

Fear not, great solutions are available in both porcelain wood look tile and luxury vinyl plank. They’re both good options and both have their advantages, both are waterproof and more durable than hardwood, but really, what is the difference between them?

Durability

Both vinyl plank tile flooring and porcelain wood look tile are far more durable than real hardwood, but the porcelain wood look tiles are, by virtue of their material, less prone to scratching and fading. It’s one of the most resilient flooring types available today.

Cleaning

While both wood-look tile flooring and luxury vinyl tile are easier to keep clean than hardwood, not having grout to be cleaned makes the luxury vinyl tile a bit easier to maintain.

Sizes, styles, and colors

LVP, the vinyl plank flooring that looks like tile, and the wood look tile flooring alike offer different sizes and a variety of different colors, including different wood species from oak, walnut, and maple to exotic woods such as Brazilian pecan. Ultimately, though, while they offer plenty of options, luxury vinyl tile offers slightly more options.

Ultimately they’re both great options for alternatives to hardwood flooring which both offer different advantages depending on your needs.

If you want help from choosing your flooring to installation, then head to kennedytilellc.com/ for more information.

Why Luxury Vinyl?

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What is Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring? What are the pros and cons of Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVP & LVT)?

In this post, we’ll discuss what Luxury vinyl is, the good and the bad of luxury vinyl, the different forms/types of the product as well as the acronyms/abbreviations used in the industry (e.g. LVT, EVP, LVP, EVT).

Vinyl has come a long way since its original inception. There are plenty of different options that feel and look like real hardwood and stone.

What do all of the acronyms stand for?

LVP stands for Luxury Vinyl Plank, which are vinyl planks that look like hardwood planks. LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile, which are vinyl planks or squares that look like tile or natural stone. They are individual pieces, much like tile or stone, and have the added benefit of being waterproof.

LVP/LVT comes in a variety of grades and forms. The innovation in both quality and durability has been evolving extremely fast yearly. There are more form and color options available than ever.

What is EVP?

EVP short for Engineered Vinyl Plank. It is a subset of Luxury Vinyl Flooring. EVP has an incredibly realistic hardwood look and feels and is very durable. It is waterproof and has a high-density core.

EVP – or Engineered vinyl plank, is a thicker form of the standard glue down vinyl. At an average of 8 mm thick, it’s fairly similar to an engineered hardwood or laminate flooring in thickness. Much like engineered flooring, it is constructed in layers. The top layer is vinyl, the center is a high-density core board and there is typically an attached back underlayment, such as cork for more cushioning. Like laminate, these floors are designed to click together for easy installation.

Engineered vinyl plank is similar in form and looks to an engineered hardwood and laminate flooring, but it is much more resilient. Another great benefit to EVP is that it is waterproof.

Engineered vinyl plank has is a great alternative to more expensive engineered hardwood flooring, that is more durable and attractive to cheaper looking vinyl and laminate. Both of these have an unfortunate tendency to curl over time.

What are the different forms of luxury vinyl flooring?

Years ago luxury vinyl was only available in a glue-down form. These materials could be glued directly to a concrete slab or a plywood sub-floor. They are fairly thin so when glued directly to a concrete slab, they just lay on top of it without providing any sort of cushioning. It’s essentially as if you are walking on top of a concrete slab, so it can be pretty hard and cold.

Because vinyl is thin, imperfections in the sub-floor can show through, it’s very important that you prep the floor before installing vinyl.

Eventually, a variation of vinyl was created that was floating. Floating means that the floor covering isn’t glued or attached to the sub-floor. This makes it much easier to install without hiring a professional and to replace or repair the floor at a later date.

Big box stores carry some varieties of these materials. These offerings tend to be lower quality and much less durable than you would find from a vendor that specializes in flooring. These have a habit of curing over time and delaminating in areas that see more moisture, or where the floor isn’t even. This could cause the pieces to not line up properly, and in more trafficked areas could be tripping hazards.

What are the advantages of EVP?

  • Waterproof– Engineered luxury vinyl is a great choice for areas with a lot of moisture such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms
  • Appearance– Luxury vinyl looks great, specially engineered vinyl plank. Many people mistake it for hardwood
  • Price– On average EVP/LVP is less expensive than hardwood or tile
  • Provides more insulation and soundproofing than glue down laminates and vinyl
  • Can be installed on top of virtually any surface that is flat. Luxury vinyl can go on top of plywood, tile, or concrete
  • Easy to install nothing more really needs to be said about that

What are the downsides to Engineered Vinyl Planks?

  • It doesn’t improve the value of your home in the same way that hardwood or tile does. However, it’s certainly a preferable and longer-lasting option vs laminate flooring or your basic cheap vinyl
  • It can scratch, especially with heavy objects such as appliances. It’s more scratch-resistant than hardwood and a bit less resistant than laminate. You can replace individual pieces if they get scratched, so it’s handy to have an extra box or two for repairs
  • May require a lot of floor prep if your floor is uneven or wavy. If your floor is very uneven or wavy, Engineered vinyl planks (which are rigid) will not line up very well, and they can bounce (just as any floating floor can). So, if your floors are wavy or uneven, you will probably want to either add self-leveling, mix which can be a bit costly, or consider a glue-down installation

When does it make sense to do a floating engineered vinyl plank rather than a glue-down luxury vinyl?

  • When your floors are flat and level, you can use whichever type of vinyl (or another flooring you want). In these circumstances, most customers prefer an engineered vinyl plank as it looks and feels nicer. It often costs a bit less, too
  • When you want a floor that is waterproof and moisture resistant. Engineered vinyl plank is perfect for this, and a way better option vs laminate (or engineered hardwood) that can become ruined just from moisture, let alone a floor or water leak
  • When you’re looking for more stylish colors. Because the engineered vinyl planks are newer and more popular, they are rapidly expanding their lines and color selection. It’s often easier to find more options in the more recent hot trends for grays, weathered woods and farmhouse looks in the engineered planks. There are generally fewer options in the glue-down versions

Summary

Luxury Vinyl Planks are a quickly growing segment in the marketplace, and the Engineered Vinyl Planks are the most quickly expanding sub-segment. They provide a gorgeous real and contemporary look, and they are very durable and versatile. It is a huge benefit that they are waterproof, so they are great for water or moisture-prone areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Luxury vinyl tends to hold up much better than laminate and engineered hardwood and they can be installed on top of virtually any type of surface.

Ceramic or Porcelain – The Differences

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Porcelain And Ceramic Tiles – What’s the difference?

The makeup of Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles is what makes them so different.

Ceramic tiles are made using different natural red, brown, and white clays that are baked at high temperatures to reduce water content. The patterned glaze is then applied.

Porcelain tiles are typically produced the same way, but only using white clay. Finely-ground sand and feldspar are also added to the clay mixture and then fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tiles. The result is a harder, much more dense tile, which is less porous.

The permeability of the tile is what ultimately dictates whether the tile is classified as ceramic or porcelain.

All tiles are then subject to a water absorption test to determine how porous they are. Tiles are weighed and then submerged in water for some time. The tiles that weigh 0.5% more after being put in water, are classified as ceramic. Those that are denser and weigh less than 0.5% more are classed as porcelain.

The distinction between porcelain and ceramic tile is made after the manufacturing process.

There are then two different types of porcelain tile – through-body porcelain tiles and glazed porcelain tiles.

Through-body tiles (also known as full-body or homogeneous) do not have glaze on them and are the same color and design throughout. Glazed tiles have a painted glaze on top which gives the tile its pattern and color.

So how do you decide between glazed and through-body tiles? In high-traffic areas, such as hallways, through-body tiles may well be a better option. Chips and dents in glazed tiles are more noticeable as the color underneath shows through. With full-body tiles, chips are less noticeable as it’s the same color all the way through.

While porcelain tiles are harder and much denser, this also makes them more difficult to cut and shape. Ceramic tiles can be cut easily by hand using a wet tile saw or snap tile cutter. Porcelain tiles require more experience to get a clean, accurate cut.

Should You Choose Porcelain Or Ceramic Tiles?

For most applications, either ceramic or porcelain tiles should be fine. There are certain instances in which one is more suitable than the other.

AREAS WITH HIGH FOOTFALL OR ABRASION

Porcelain tiles are harder than ceramic tiles and can therefore better withstand the abuse of higher foot traffic and scratches, so these are good choices for entranceways, hallways, and utility rooms. Ceramic tiles are slightly more likely to chip, which exposes the different color tiles under the glaze.

If you have kids or pets in the home, then porcelain tiles will be better at standing up to wear and tear, particularly if you use through-body tiles.

Ceramic will be fine for wall tiles in these areas, however.

AREAS WITH HIGH LEVELS OF MOISTURE

As mentioned above, porcelain tiles absorb less water than ceramic and are more suited to areas with higher levels of moisture. The obvious example is the bathroom, where there is a higher chance of water on the floor and in the air but you might also want to consider porcelain floor tiles in the kitchen in case of spills Low absorption rates also means that porcelain tiles are less prone to staining.

OUTDOORS

If you want to use tile outdoors on a balcony or patio, then you should be using porcelain tiles. Because they are less porous, porcelain tiles will hold up better in rain This is also incredibly important in cold weather because if the moisture freezes it will expand, which could cause the tile to crack.

PEI Rating

A great way of quickly identifying which tiles are right for your home is to go by the Porcelain Enamel Institute rating (PEI rating), which is as follows:

PEI 0 – No foot traffic (wall tiles)

PEI 1 – Very light traffic (rooms with infrequent use, e.g. bathroom)

PEI 2 – Light traffic (e.g. bathroom and bedroom)

PEI 3 – Light to moderate traffic (should be suitable for most domestic floors)

PEI 4 – Moderate to heavy traffic (fine for domestic floors and some commercial applications)

PEI 5 – Heavy traffic (all domestic/commercial uses with heavy footfall)

Typically ceramic tiles will have a PEI rating over between 3 and 4, while porcelain will usually be harder, with a PEI rating between 3 and 5.

Choosing Carpet – Nylon vs Polyester

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When shopping for carpet, a lot of people naturally focus on carpet fiber and often assume that nylon is always better than polyester.  However, carpet fiber is only one of the factors that you need to consider.   Equally important are carpet construction factors like density, filament type and twist level.  All of these elements together determine how a carpet will perform and what it will cost.  When shopping for carpet, it helps to have a general understanding of these factors in order to make the best decision.  In this week’s post, we’ll look the difference between fibers and next week we’ll talk about carpet construction.

Carpet Fiber: Carpet’s Basic Ingredient 

The four basic fibers used in carpet today are nylon, polypropylene (Olefin), polyester and wool.  Since synthetic fibers make up 99% of the fiber in the US carpet industry, we’ll focus on them.   Each type of fiber has its strengths and weaknesses which determine how it can be used and constructed.  Keep in mind there is no perfect fiber and carpet is a fabric that is subjected to incredible abuse – foot traffic, accidental spills and environmental contaminants.

Nylon

Durable, Resilient & Versatile

Nylon is more expensive than other synthetic carpet fibers and is the most commonly used carpet fiber today. Nylon is the most versatile of all fibers, providing flexibility in creating a variety of carpet styles – from sumptuous plush to fashion-forward patterns to low-maintenance loop (Berber).  Its strengths include good resiliency, good yarn memory to hold twist, good stain resistance with stain treatment applied, good soil hiding ability, and good abrasion resistance. It is the strongest fiber, making it an excellent choice for heavy traffic areas, active households or commercial facilities.

Be aware that there can be considerable cost differences even between two similar-looking nylon products. Nylon, for example, may be branded or unbranded and, as we mentioned, carpet construction greatly influences value, price and performance. You really can’t judge a carpet by appearance or fiber weight alone. As an example, Shaw’s Anso nylon is a branded, premium nylon and comes with some of the strongest warranties in the industry, including Lifetime Stain and Soil Resistance (even pet urine stains!).  Anso nylon carpets cost more, but you’re getting a premium nylon with excellent construction properties and the warranties reflect this.  What you care about is that your carpet will look newer longer.

If you are looking for value goods, unbranded nylons offer a considerable benefit for the money. These products may have fewer features and less robust warranties, but you’ll still get the inherent benefits of nylon (durability and resiliency) at a lower price.

Polypropylene (Olefin)

Color Fast, Naturally Stain Resistant, Economical

Olefin is one of the most colorfast fibers on the market.  Unlike the other fiber types, polypropylene will not absorb water and must be solution dyed to impart color.  Solution dyeing is a pigmentation process in which color is actually built into the fiber when it is formed, thereby becoming an inherent part of the fiber.  The color will not fade, even when exposed to intense sunlight, bleaches, or other harsh chemicals.  However, since it is not as resilient as other fibers, polypropylene is better suited to low-profile loop (Berber) carpets in which there is less need for superior resiliency.   The one exception to this is a type of olefin called “Comfortouch” by Shaw.  This new fiber is softer to the feel because it is scoured three times during production. Then the fiber is treated with Shaw’s R2X, a patented Stain and Soil inhibitor for enhanced protection against spills and tracked-in dirt. The result is a fiber that feels like cotton, resists soil and stains, and wears better than other olefin carpet.

Olefin carpets work well anywhere you need fade and stain resistance – in rooms with strong sunlight, indoor/outdoor rooms, kitchens, children’s bedrooms & playrooms, and basements.

Polyester

Exceptionally Stain & Fade-Resistant, Soft, & Budget-Friendly

If you need stain-resistance, this is your carpet!  Just to give you an example, we know a customer who spilled hair dye on her 6 month old polyester carpet. Although hair dye is on the list of stains that are NOT warranted, this customer got the stain out with laundry detergent and water. Now that’s impressive!

While not as inherently resilient as nylon, polyester carpets will perform well if constructed well.  So choose a polyester carpet with a higher pile and medium-high density to ensure maximum appearance retention and long-term wear.  You can also refer to the durability ratings on the back of carpet samples to help you assess how a carpet will stand up to traffic.

If you’ve never considered polyester carpeting before, you might want to look at Shaw’s New ClearTouch carpets which are made of a new type of polyester called PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate).  This new polyester “ups the ante” in terms of performance.  ClearTouch carpets feature:

  • exceptional softness
  • natural and permanent stain resistance, including pet urine stains
  • improved strength and better abrasion resistance
  • excellent appearance retention and long-term wear
  • 25% recycled content from recycled soda and water bottles

The new PET polyester carpets pack in a lot of performance for the money! They are a great choice for children’s bedrooms & playrooms as well as for people who don’t want to put a lot money into their carpet.  We highly recommend you choose a PET polyester with a higher pile and medium-high density to ensure maximum appearance retention and long-term wear.