Benefits Of Artisan Tile You Must Know

By Freida Michael


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

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

Thousands of years ago, tiles were widely used by the affluent to decorate their homes. Now they are mass produced as a rule to provide enough quantity for most projects. Prices are lower for volume purchases and uniformity of quality can be maintained. There is no end to the design possibilities given new modern techniques.

In choosing tiles, there are many factors to take note of. One of which is the grade it comes with. Grade 1 tiles are heavy duty. Grade 2 tiles are cheaper versions of grade 1 tiles. Both of which are suitable for flooring. Grade 3 tiles are more brittle and are thus better for walls.

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

Handmade tiles are customized in shops. After a client and the artist finalizes the design, the tile makers create each tile from solid clay and cut down to the specified shape and texture. After it has dried, they are applied with glaze. Handmade tiles are most often in neutral colors and its beauty are most often accentuated by the interior's lighting. Otherwise, the tile's color must be indicated at first because it might change as the it is baked depending on its material. It is then baked at nearly 2,000 degrees for 8 hours in a kiln.

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

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




About the Author: