What Does Quarry Tile Mean In Construction?
What Does Quarry Tile Mean In Construction?
Quarry tile is a hard-wearing building material commonly used in construction. It is usually 1⁄2 to 3⁄4 inch (13 to 19 mm) thick and made by either the extrusion process or the pressing and firing of natural clay or shale.
Quarry tiles are manufactured in a similar manner to bricks, making them suited for areas subject to wear and tear such as kitchens, bathrooms, entrances, and even busy commercial areas.
They offer an array of styles and colors allowing for the customization of any project. Quarry tile has been a popular choice for generations due to its durability, variety, and low cost – making it one of the most versatile materials in construction.
What Is The Difference Between Ceramic And Quarry Tiles?
Ceramic and quarry tiles are both highly durable flooring materials but they differ in the way they are made. Ceramic tiles are made from white or red clay that has been fired at high temperatures, making them hard-wearing and water-resistant.
Quarry tiles, on the other hand, are manufactured from a combination of clay, shale, and other natural ingredients without being formed into a shape before firing.
In addition, ceramic tiles often feature a glazed finish whereas quarry tile has an unglazed surface to prevent slipping on wet surfaces.
Both types of tile have their own individual advantages and disadvantages but they share the same ability to be used in almost any room in your home – making them an ideal choice for anyone looking for a long-lasting flooring solution.
How Do I Identify Quarry Tiles?
Quarry tiles are usually easy to identify due to their unglazed surface and lack of patterns. They have a rough texture compared to brick pavers, which are often cut into shapes that mimic bricks.
However, neither quarry tiles nor brick pavers are well suited for floor coatings as they need to be sealed properly in order to protect the grout lines between them.
Therefore, it is essential to seal these types of flooring materials regularly in order to keep them looking good and prevent damage or discoloration over time.
What Are The Advantages Of Quarry Tiles?
Quarry tiles offer a range of advantages due to their low absorption rates (0.5-3%) and unglazed texture, which provides a better grip in wet environments, helping reduce slips and falls.
They are also highly durable, resistant to severe weathering, abrasion, and chemical attack, as well as having anti-static properties – making them ideal for spaces such as kitchen floors and bathrooms.
Quarry tiles come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors to suit any style and budget, making them an attractive option for both commercial and residential applications.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Quarry Tiles?
Quarry tiles can be a great choice for flooring, but they come with some disadvantages such as their porous nature which makes them susceptible to water damage and the potential of mould and fungal growth.
Furthermore, they are vulnerable to staining from dirt and spills as well as cracking due to heavy traffic or furniture.
Additionally, unsealed quarry tiles require regular cleaning and sealing, making them more time-consuming than some other tile options.
Finally, because quarry tiles are thicker than many other types of tile, they can add extra weight to the underlying structure making it essential that any subfloor is strong enough to support them.
