Frequently Asked Tile & Natural Stone Questions
Why is ceramic tile a better choice than other floor covering materials?
A: Ceramic tile is the longest-lasting flooring and wall material available. It resists water, abrasion and fading and will not cut, tear, warp, rot or burn.
What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tile?
A: Ceramic tile is a blend of clays and other natural materials, mined from the earth, shaped, colored and fired in kilns. Most ceramic tile has either a white or red body color under the glazed and colored top layer. Porcelain tile is made of clay, quartz and feldspar and fired at 2300°F as opposed to 1600°-1800° for ceramic to make it harder, denser, less porous, and less prone to stains. Porcelain has an absorption rate of less than 0.05%, making it suitable for outdoor applications as well as indoor. Porcelain comes in three styles: through-body (color matches from top to bottom), glazed (only top layer has glaze), and color-body (body color is similar though not exact to top layer).
A: Most of our tiles meet or exceed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommendations for Coefficient of Friction (COF). This is 0.6 wet or dry for accessible routes, 0.8 wet or dry for ramps.
A: We offer electric radiant floor heat systems that can be installed under new or remodeled tile floors. They are especially useful in rooms where you may frequently go barefoot, such as a master bath.
What do I have to do to keep my tile looking new?
A: A damp mop or sponge should be all you need for daily maintenance; no need for waxing, buffing or polishing. Should you encounter any special problems, we carry a full line of products designed specially for ceramic and stone tiles.
What is the advantage of natural stone tile?
A: The very nature of natural stone is that no two pieces are exactly alike. Your project will be completely unique. Remember: colors, textures and markings vary from shipment to shipment so you should attempt to view multiple pieces before choosing them and also view your order before it is installed.
Isn’t natural stone difficult to maintain?
A: Not at all. Once your natural stone is installed, finish and sealer are applied. After that, sweeping and wet mopping are all the maintenance that is usually required. Our staff will be glad to recommend the proper sealants for your stone type.
List of Questions
Why is ceramic tile a better choice than other floor covering materials?
What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tile?
What do I have to do to keep my tile looking new?
What is the advantage of natural stone tile?
Isn’t natural stone difficult to maintain?
Other FAQs
“Mid-America Tile provides all the aspects of what makes a great supplier: product selection, design and technical support, and follow-up. This is what every architect wants to hear and can appreciate.”
Michael A.Toolis, AIA
Chairman and CEO
VOA Associates Incorporated