When it comes to tile, there are many variations of natural stone and manufactured stone tiles. Though they may have similar characteristics, they also have distinct differences as well. If properly taken care of, tile, no matter the type, are hard, durable, and water-resistant. One major distinction with manufactured tile is the melted glass glaze it has. Designed to mimic other materials such as metal, glass, wood, and even natural stone, manufactured tile, or ceramic tile is very versatile. With other characteristics, including the differences in cleaning and maintenance, we at Silver State Floor Restoration would like to share natural stone tile versus manufactured tile.
Types of Natural Stone Flooring Tiles
Common types of natural stone tile and their basic attributes are listed below.
Limestone: Though limestone provides strength and is moderately dense, it is still a bit porous. Limestone is a natural stone that weathers well too.
Sandstone: Sandstone should be avoided in moist environments because of the extreme porosity and requires a surface sealer after installation and on a routine basis.
Granite: Granite is the hardest and densest construction-grade stone materials, it can be left in a naturally gauged state or either polished or honed flat. Granite is a bit porous, but resists stains and water penetration, making it need a sealing at installation and routinely maintained.
Slate: Slate is nearly as hard as granite, layers of flat, hard-packed stone that are compressed by the weight of the earth in solid sections. Being strong in nature, it resists breaks and cracks, but can be vulnerable to some chipping on tile edges. At installations and properly kept up, slate should be sealed as well.
Types of Manmade Tile
Manufactured tile such as ceramic, porcelain, and terra cotta; are made from clay and are available glazed and unglazed.
How to Clean Tile Floors
Acids damage natural stone, making it vital to avoid acidic cleaners as they will cause damage and staining. Though all spills need to be promptly wiped up, be sure to immediately cleanup any acidic based foods and beverages. Vinegar also needs to be avoided, especially when you tile depends on sealant for protection. Where glazed ceramic can be cleaned with nearly any sanitizing cleaning agent, the grout lines can be compromised and degraded with the harsher chemicals. For best results, use mild cleaners and natural stone tile need to be cleaned with specific cleaners.
Natural Stone & Man Made Tile Cleaning, Sealing & Polishing in Aliante, Anthem, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Inspirada, Mountain’s Edge, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Providence, Rhodes Ranch, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, The Lakes, Tuscany Village & Las Vegas Nevada
It all needs to be professional cleaned 1-2 times a year, no matter which type of tile is, and sealed as well. Though granite and slate can weather nicely with the initial application if that is your goal, you want to ensure your natural stone tile is routinely sealed. Sealing is not necessary when it comes to glazed ceramic. To prevent discoloration except for epoxy grout, all grout lines should be sealed, however. When your tile and grout needs deep cleaning and other maintenance care, Silver State Floor Restoration has certified experts readily available to deliver high-quality services. Contact us today!
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