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When choosing tiles for a specific area there are lots of factors to consider and lots of thought is required to ensure you purchase the right tiles for the correct area. The room you are tiling is the most important aspect to consider and the amount of traffic that the tiles are going to be subjected to. If the area is high traffic such as the kitchen or bathroom, it is really important to select a tile that is hard wearing, durable and has low absorption rates, especially in rooms such as bathrooms and kitchens. It is also really important to select a tile that is stain proof in order to protect the tiles from spillages.

Ceramic tiles are very versatile tiles, are strong and durable and are stain proof making them ideal tiles for high traffic and wet areas. Ceramic tiles are made from clay and baked at very high temperatures which makes them incredibly strong. The tiles are then glazed and fired again and different styles, colours and styles can be achieved during the firing process.

There are generally two types of ceramic tiles, unglazed and glazed. The glazed variety has a sheen appearance and are available in a wide range of colours and shades.  The glazed ceramic tile has super protection from stains, spillages and is waterproof.  The glazed variety of ceramic tile is more likely to become slippery when wet and so it is really important to opt for a tile that has a non slip finish and any good tile store will be able to advise you on this.

The unglazed variety of tile has an uncoated surface and is an incredibly hard, compact tile and  unlike glazed tiles the top and bottom of unglazed tiles has the same colour and texture.  There are also varieties of non slip unglazed tiles and many home owners use them in areas of high traffic because they are incredibly strong and durable.

Ceramic tiles are also ideal to use with electric underfloor heating systems which has become more popular over the last couple of years.

Selecting the correct tile is vitally important to ensure they last the test of time and remain looking good and in their original state.  Ceramic tiles installed correctly will last for years and can be resealed when necessary which is really important in busy areas such as the kitchen, bathrooms, laundry rooms and conservatories.