Tiles each have their own different properties and can be purchased in both glazed as well as unglazed finishes. The best option to consider when tiling walls and floors are glazed tiles; they are by far the most suitable.

A strong density of hardness along with colour is given to these glazed tiles, which are commonly known as machine-made tiles that are cast into a die, are baked in a kiln on really high temperatures. For further reliability it is very important that you add a glaze coating to the clay, as it is porous in nature. These tiles are far more stain resistant, and are available in a wide range of designs, colours and tones, unlike the unglazed tiles. Wall applications and countertops are usually tiled with glazed tiles due their durable quality and glossy finish.g decorating bathrooms.

Glazed finished tiles adds lustre and durability to the tile; Ceramic and Porcelain can be purchased with this glaze. Most of the glazed ceramic tiles available in the market have a high density that allows very little and in some cases no accrual of moisture. If you want a durable tile that will last a long time then Porcelain or Ceramic will suffice, although Porcelain is said to be slightly better. Being baked in a kiln at a higher temperature and made out of a finer quality clay gives them the upper hand. They are more resistant to moisture and stains and therefore suitable for both wall and floor tiling and can withstand high traffic. Ceramic bathroom tiles are still available however and are fit for purpose.

Today glazed flooring tiles have become quite popular and are the most purchased tile type. Glazed tiles are used for bathroom designs and kitchen wall and floor tiling because of their ability to work well in wet conditions. Countries such as; United States, Spain, Italy and Portugal will produce these. The quality of the tiles can be calculated according to the Porcelain Enamel Institute grading that rates the tiles according to their durability. This includes their ability to withstand abrasions and other external conditions. The quality of tiles is measured on a rating scale from 0-5; the 0 catergory being less likely to withstand force and the 5 class considered to be the best.

Tiles in category 5 are most suitable for heavy traffic areas that are prone to dirt and heavy abrasions. You will find areas that have a constant flow of traffic, such as subways, shopping malls, industrial floors, airports are the best areas to visit. Inspect glazed tiles, just like you would any tile, before purchasing for installation. The manufacturer will grade the product, you must look out for this; you will find it next too the CE marking and the BS EN 12004 certification. These grading of tiles will help you determine if the tile type that you intend to buy is suitable for the kind of application you plan for it. Comparing your findings to the PEI rating will ascertain whether your purchase has been successful or not.