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UK diy (uk.d-i-y) For the discussion of all topics related to diy (do-it-yourself) in the UK. All levels of experience and proficency are welcome to join in to ask questions or offer solutions. |
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Porcelain floor tiles
guv wrote:
Ive decided to lay tiles in our hallway, downstairs loo, kitchen and utility room all in the same tile design. I have been looking at Porcelain tiles, purely because they are meant to be much tougher and less likely to crack if something was every dropped on them. Having looked in a few tile shops, I note the huge variation in prices (as expected), but also that porcelain is very much more expensive than ceramics. With this in mind, I was intriuged by something I spotted on ebay: http://makeashorterlink.com/?I2381620E I have contacted the seller (who has a shop on ebay, shop in Epsom and warehouse in Gravesend) and he has sent me a sample of the tile shown in that link and a few others. One thing that struck me, was they seemed slightly thinner than I had expected (probably about 7 or 8 mm) and surprisingly light. (Having said that, the samples were only small peices, not full tiles.) Looking on the back of the tiles, they were ridged, like I would expect on ceramics. Is that normal? All the porcelain tiles I have seen, look like they could be laid either way round! (Though there probably is a correct side - thats just a quick observation!) The tiles also seem to originate from China. Does it look like I should avoid these? (I have to say, I like the price) I dont want to regret a purchase, but Im guessing as long as they lay ok and behave themselves once down, whats likely to go wrong? A dilema! I'm fully aware of the "get what you pay for" ideal, but....... I think the answer lies in what is meant by porcelain. To me porcelain is a fine delicate ceramic,usually white, from which dainty and fragile teas sets are made. And possibly toilets and basins. And is totally unsuitable as a flooring. Ceramic, is a material used because its tough and strong and goes in the business end of jet engines ;-) Then there is terra cotta, earthenware, brick, quary tiles, natural stone tiles, and so on ad nauseam. Before you even get to the galze, which is 99.99% of the wear capability of the tile. |
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