Ceramic kitchen floor tile is often chosen for its beauty, but other aspects need to be considered as well. Ceramic tiles work well in high traffic areas like the kitchen, some better than others. Industry ratings can inform the best choices for your home. Hardness Ratings Ceramic and porcelain kitchen floor tile is rated for hardness. Known as the Moh scale, tiles are categorized according to their ability to stand up to wear. For kitchens, it’s best to choose tiles from Group 3, Medium to Heavy Traffic, Group 4, Heavy Traffic or Group 5, Extra-Heavy Traffic. Porosity Ratings Kitchens need tiles that are resistant to moisture. Ceramic tiles are also rated by how porous they are. From the least absorbent rating to the most absorbent, the ratings are: Impervious, Vitreous, Semi-vitreous and Non-vitreous. Sealant Glazed ceramic tiles are coated with a liquid glass that makes them moisture-resistant. Unglazed tiles need to have a sealant applied every few years to keep them waterproof. Tile for the kitchen should be durable, easy to maintain and moisture resistant. Most ceramic tiles fit the bill, and are available in an almost limitless number of sizes, colors and styles. Source: kitchentiledirect.com/blog
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http://www.kitchentiledirect.com/blog/2011/12/09/choosing-the-right-ceramic-kitchen-floor-tile/