Tiles

Floor tiles are commonly made of ceramic or stone, but recent technology has paved the way for the use of glass tiles. Ceramic tiles can be painted and glazed. Mosaic tiles are usually laid in various patterns. Floor tiles are typically set into mortar containing sand and cement. The space separating tiles is typically filled with grout, which can colored to match the tile or aesthetics of the room.

Natural stone is probably the most aesthetically appealing option for tile, but this usually requires more planning. Natural stone has the need for shaping, due to fact these stones are not uniform in size or shape. Stone tiles can be grinded on both sides, and then polished to obtain a uniform look. Slate tiles often have uneven faces. Most sharp edges are ground down to prevent injury. The thickness of each tile can be counteracted by the amount of mortar placed underneath the tiles. This can save some time with the shaping of the tiles. Many tiles like marble and granite can be slippery when wet. Grout, however, is usually rough in consistency. To prevent slippery surfaces, the marble or granite can be cut into smaller pieces so the grout acts as anti-slip surface. The more grout present, the less likely one is to fall.