The Original Floors

Go Pro With Ceramic Tile Flooring Installation

Whether you’re interesting in natural stone floors or genuine tile floors, leave the installation to the pros! Installing stone or tile floors is hard work, labor intensive and extremely exacting. Professional installers spend years learning their craft and most consider it an art form in which they take pride.

When it comes time to install your floor, your flooring retailers will be able to recommend reliable and experienced professional stone and tile installers. By going with a pro you can be assured of a beautiful and correctly installed floor that will bring you enjoyment for a very long time.

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Caring for Ceramic Tile Floors

Ceramic genuine Ceramic Tile is an investment that will increase the value of your home. Protect these valuable assets by following proper care and maintenance steps.

Dirt adheres easily to the textured surfaces of Ceramic tile. Dirt, grit and debris can work as relentless abrasives to eventually scratch and damage even these incredibly hard and durable floors. Routine sweeping or dust mopping several times a week will loosen and remove particles. Vacuums work great at removing dirt along floor edges and in between tiles. Just make sure to use the soft bristle or hard surface floor attachment.

Damp mopping with water will help keep stone or tile floors looking sparkling beautiful. Ask your flooring retailer or check the manufacturer’s warranty about recommended cleaning products specifically formulated for stone and tile floors. For heavier soiled areas, spot clean with a sponge or clean cloth using a recommended cleaner.

Protect Your Investment

• Place door mats inside and outside entrances to trap dirt and grit and to help reduce wear.
• Don’t slide furniture across stone or tile floors. Always lift furniture to move it and place soft plastic or felt glides under the legs to prevent scuffing and scratching.
• Keep your pets’ nails trimmed and paws free from dirt and gravel.
• Make sure your shoes are not excessively soiled or have gravel embedded in the tread.
• If you choose to place an area rug over your floor, make sure it has a non-slip surface.
• Avoid rubber-backed mats that can discolor floors, unless mats are specifically warranted as colorfast.
• Avoid rubber-backed mats that can discolor floors, unless mats are specifically warranted as colorfast.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ceramic Tile Floors

What do I need to know about grout?

Grout is available in many colors to coordinate with your stone or tile choice. The finished grout color is affected by moisture, temperature and installation techniques. Because of these variables, the installed shade may differ from a showroom sample. Choose grout color to blend rather than match. Also look for grout formulas that contribute to stain-resistance and mildew-resistance.

Will my stone or tile floor be slippery?

Yes. Sedimentary materials like travertine, sandstone and limestone are porous and readily absorb liquids and moisture. Any liquids spilling onto the surface will seep into the body of the unsealed stone. This can negatively affect how your stone floor will look over time. A sealer will ensure that potential staining materials remain on the surface until you remove them.

Are sealers really necessary on sedimentary stone flooring?

Yes. Sedimentary materials like travertine, sandstone and limestone are porous and readily absorb liquids and moisture. Any liquids spilling onto the surface will seep into the body of the unsealed stone. This can negatively affect how your stone floor will look over time. A sealer will ensure that potential staining materials remain on the surface until you remove them.

What factors influence the cost of natural stone flooring?

The price of stone flooring depends on several factors, including where the stone comes from, how unique the source or color is, and how hard it is to cut. The more expensive stones tend to be rare or have special characteristics.

What can be done if tiles become broken or irreparably damaged?

If damaged, individual flooring pieces can be easily replaced without impacting the entire floor. Your whole floor does not have to be torn up and replaced, just the damaged area. This is why it’s a good idea to keep extra stone or tile pieces on hand.

Are all tiles suitable for flooring?

No, you need the right tile for the right place. Not all tiles can be used for flooring. Floor tiles must be able to withstand continuous stresses without breaking. Other factors to consider when selecting tiles for flooring are abrasion, chemical and stain resistance.