When it comes to choosing tile flooring, understanding the differences between glazed and unglazed tiles is crucial. Both types have unique characteristics, advantages, and applications that make them suitable for different spaces in your home or commercial setting. In this blog, we'll explore the distinct features of glazed and unglazed tiles to help you make an informed decision for your flooring needs.
Glazed tiles: a world of color and versatility
Glazed tiles are known for their wide array of colors, patterns, and textures. They are ceramic tiles coated with a liquid glass, which is then baked into their surface, creating a shiny, hard, and non-porous layer. This glazing process allows for virtually unlimited aesthetic options, including a range of colors, intricate printed designs, and even textures that mimic other materials like wood or stone.
Advantages of glazed tile flooring
- Aesthetic variety: The most significant advantage of glazed tile flooring is its varied appearance. These tiles offer a multitude of design options, making them suitable for any decor style.
- Stain resistance: The glazing on these tiles creates a non-porous surface that is highly resistant to stains, making them easier to clean and maintain.
- Water resistance: Glazed tiles are ideal for moist environments like bathrooms and kitchens due to their water-resistant properties.
- Durability: While glazed tiles are not as hard as unglazed tiles, they are still incredibly durable and suitable for both residential and light commercial use.
Unglazed tiles: natural beauty and robustness
Unglazed tiles are solid ceramic tiles, and their color is the same on the surface and inside the tile. This uniformity gives them a natural, earthy appearance and ensures that any chips or scratches are less noticeable.
Advantages of unglazed tile flooring
- Slip resistance: Unglazed tiles have a naturally non-slip surface, making them ideal for high-traffic or wet areas like entryways, commercial kitchens, or bathrooms.
- Inherent coloration: Because their color runs throughout, chips or scratches on unglazed tiles are less visible, which can be advantageous in high-traffic areas.
- Durability and hardness: Unglazed tiles are typically denser and more durable than glazed tiles, making them suitable for commercial and industrial applications.
- Natural aesthetic: If you prefer a more natural or rustic look, unglazed tile flooring offers a beautiful, earth-toned appearance that complements such designs.
Choosing the right tile flooring for your space
The choice between glazed and unglazed tiles ultimately depends on the intended use, desired aesthetic, and specific requirements of the space. Glazed tiles are best for areas where aesthetic versatility and stain resistance are priorities. In contrast, unglazed tile flooring is ideal for spaces that require robustness and slip resistance.
Visit our tile store in Hurst, TX
Both glazed and unglazed tile flooring offer unique advantages, and understanding these can guide you in selecting the most suitable tile for your project. Whether you prioritize aesthetics, durability, or functionality, there’s a tile flooring option that will perfectly match your flooring needs.
iStone Floors & More is proud to offer a wide selection of ceramic and porcelain tiles. Our tile store in Hurst, TX, serves Hurst, Fort Worth, Grapevine, Southlake, Keller, Irving, North Richland Hills, Colleyville, Bedford, and Euless, TX.
