Q Should ceramic tile be installed over wood or sheet vinyl?

Yes, but the only acceptable wood sub-floor is exterior grade plywood, but will require a special “modified” thinset, however, most up-stairs sub-floors have some flex, or movement, so, a backer-board is recommended as  is for other types of wood
flooring such as hardwood, parquet, particle board, or an interior grade of plywood. In some cases, if the wood floor in installed over a concrete slab, tear-out is recommended. Tile can be installed on vinyl or linoleum but they must be well bonded and properly prepared, however, tear-out of the vinyl is best and insures a better bond to the concrete.


Q What is the difference between ceramic tile and porcelain tile, other than price?

Porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile. The major differences are:  Porcelain tile is harder and denser than other types of ceramic tile. Porcelain tile is frost proof because of water absorption rates of less than 0.5%.

Q Are there any special requirements for installing porcelain tile?

Yes, because porcelain bodied tiles are so hard and dense, a “modified” or latex Portland cement mortar is the minimum bonding material to be used, therefore, it is a little more expensive.


Q Why would I want to buy a porcelain or “frost resistant” tile?

If the tile is going to be installed outdoors or will be subjected to freezing temperatures it should have a low absorption factor otherwise the tile may crack due to the freeze-thaw cycles it would be exposed to. Another reason is that some porcelain is a “Through Body” type of tile, meaning that it is the same color throughout the body of the tile.


Q Is ceramic floor tile slippery?

Any floor, vinyl, hardwood, laminate, or ceramic tile can be slippery if it becomes contaminated with soil, oil, grease, water or other foreign substances. The glossier the floor, the slicker it can be. Unglazed tile or tiles that have an abrasive finish or textured surface are less slippery than bright glazed tile or tiles with a very smooth surface. “Slippery” is defined by the term coefficient of friction. Generally slip-resistant tiles have a COF greater than .60 wet. Just remember to always use caution when stepping out of the shower, cooking with oil, and so on, clean up spills immediately.


Q Does ceramic tile need to be sealed or waxed?

Glazed ceramic tile or Porcelain tile does not require sealers or waxes. Unglazed tile with higher absorption rates – above 3% may be sealed or finished if so desired. Also, the grout can be sealed to prevent staining, look around for one that is easy to apply, as it needs to be re-applied, as directed, to keep the grout protected.


Q Is ceramic tile easy to clean and maintain?

Yes, but it does need to be maintained. It is not maintenance free. General day-to-day cleaning requires only sweeping or vacuuming to remove loose soil or debris, then damp mopping with clean, warm water. If aggressive cleaning due to heavy contamination is required, it can be accomplished using a mild household cleaner or a commercial cleaner, scrubbing with a nylon pad or brush, followed by a thorough rinse and removal of the cleaning solution.

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