The bathroom makes special demands on the operating conditions. The walls here are affected by temperature changes and humidity, and constant dampness negatively affects condition of the coating, creating favorable conditions for the vital activity of fungi, mold and microorganisms dangerous to person.
When solving the issue of finishing, consumers consider ceramic tiles. Ceramic tile for the bathroom has a wide variety of colors and textures which allows to implement interesting design solutions.
Reasons for the popularity of ceramic tiles
The fact that this type of finishing material is used for bathrooms more often than others is due to the moisture resistance of the coating. Products do not accumulate dirt and moisture, so harmful microorganisms do not spread over the surface.
Other benefits include:
- the coating does not absorb odors and demonstrates resistance to chemicals. This makes it possible to remove dirt from the surface with abrasive cleaners;
- durable finishing option - even with no care, the tile will last a couple of decades and retain its original appearance. Durability is achieved through the use of double firing technique. The most moisture resistant option is considered to be treated with glaze;
- different price range. The cost varies, so you can choose an attractive finish based on material possibilities and preferences. There are both inexpensive types of finishes and premium designer tiles on the market. Given the operation of several decades and practicality, the purchase of a tile is more profitable than the purchase of alternative solutions;
- environmental Safety. The material for making tiles is clay. There are no toxic elements here - most evaporate during heat treatment.
- the surface of the tile does not conduct electricity. This quality of raw materials is important if a washing machine, hair dryer and other electrical appliances are used in the room.
Tiles differ from each other in:
- dimensions;
- color scheme;
- invoice;
- decor;
- form.
Thanks to a decent selection of proposals, everyone can design a bath at their discretion. The options in the usual version look interesting - this approach will be inexpensive, because there are no exclusive components in the design. For those who like to stand out from the background of others, the market offers author's works - this is a chance to create a unique interior.
About the specifics of ceramic tiles for bathrooms
- Like any other finish, tile has both positive and negative sides. The disadvantage is the difficult and time-consuming installation. Installation of tiles requires preparation of the base, so you need to tune in to serious work at the beginning of the journey.
- The process of laying tiles also causes difficulties. Even the smallest discrepancy between the elements is categorically unacceptable. If there are irregularities in the row, the work will have to be completely redone. Not only the appearance will suffer - there will be a risk of an early destruction of the canvas.
- Tiling should be done by people with relevant experience. Jobs require knowledge and skills. In addition, the material is fragile. The price of the services of professionals is acceptable, plus everything is a guarantee of a durable and high-quality result.
- This type of finish can be used for floors, but it is quite cold and slippery, so both the choice of raw materials and its installation become more complicated. There are models on the market with an anti-slip type coating, and the issue of cold floors is solved by using a “warm floor”. However, this approach comes at a significant cost.
- Dirt gradually accumulates between the tile seams, as a result, the seams become dark and spoil the whole look. These places are difficult to clean. Moreover, they become a favorable environment for the reproduction of bacteria. To avoid this, it is important to keep these areas clean and treat them with antiseptics once a year.
Cost is considered both an advantage and a disadvantage. You can choose a budget option, but if the task is to get high-quality coverage, you will have to spend money. Glue, grout, as well as raw materials for preparatory measures should be added to the costs.
Criteria for choosing ceramic tiles: what to look for
When buying a tile, you need to focus on:
- on the texture and appearance of the surface. Products must be resistant to moisture and mechanical deformations. The catalog presents different options - from matte and smooth to polished and embossed;
- to the specifics of the room. If the room is small, medium-sized and pastel colors will be appropriate. This approach will visually increase the space. In spacious rooms, different shades are appropriate, including dark ones;
- for design. Some choose options without ornament, others prefer imitation of natural textures. To make the room look harmonious, you do not need to use more than three shades for decoration.
- on the parameters. If the material is of high quality, the level of sound insulation and moisture resistance will be optimal. This is a hypoallergenic, safe and damage-resistant finishing method;
- for the allocated budget. Attractive, reliable and durable bathroom tiles will not come cheap. Many users adhere to the rule of the golden mean - the finish of the middle price category is not inferior in quality to the author's work.
There are original solutions on sale, for example, a surface with a 3D pattern or relief-type tiles with three-dimensional shapes. Even if there is no optimal option on the market, you can always place an order for the manufacture of tiles of the desired shape and size. Many trade brands offer a solution for atypical dimensions by applying any pattern to the surface of the material.
All these advantages and possibilities have made ceramic tiles the most sought-after option for bathrooms.
Article source: website keramogranit.ru
