So, what’s the difference? Most often when we use the descriptors, gauged, semi-gauged, or un-gauged tile we’re referring to slate tile. Most of our slate falls into the category of semi-gauged which means that it has undergone a grinding process that levels out one side of the tile creating a relatively flat surface. Once installed, semi-gauged tile creates a smoother, more level floor because the thickness of each tile is fairly consistent.
Ungauged tile, on the other hand, is much less refined and varies greatly in depth from tile to tile. By definition, ungauged tile is textured on both sides and has not been machine-altered in any way. It is often hand-split and boxed right at the quarry which means a greatly reduced price for the buyer. So, if you’re flexible with the look and feel of your tile, ungauged slate will save you 50-100% of the cost of it’s gauged counterpart. Although a bit raw in look at feel, unguaged stone offers greater design possiblities during installation because either side can be installed face-up depending on the amount of color variation you desire. Installers should note that unguaged tile generally requires more work to install.
If you want a smooth finish, you’re in the market for gauged tile. When tile is gauged it has been honed on one side creating a surface that has a consistent texture and thickness. Because the manufacturing process requires more effort, gauged tile almost always comes with a higher price tag.
So, there’s your tile lesson for the week. You’re choice between gauged, semi-gauged and ungauged tile will depend on your budget and the design aesthetic you’re looking for. Ciao!
Today I received a phone call from a customer who wanted to know two things: how to clean metal tile and how to keep it from changing color over time. Great questions! We get these often and, as a result, I’m writing this article. Here’s the scoop on caring for our metal tile.
Here at Statements, we have two metal tile lines that are 100 percent metal: Alumillenium and Anticati. Alumillenium comes in a variety of metal types and finishes. The color that tends to patina most obviously is the Alumillenium antique bronze which ranges in color from a warm bronzy-brown to a deep green after years of oxidation. If you like the warm tones of the “pre-patinaed” antique bronze there are ways to encourage it to remain true to it’s original color. Adding a layer of paste wax or lacquer to a well cleaned metal tile will protect and seal it from oxidation and discoloration.
Paste wax is a natural product that is most often used to protect and add luster to hardwoods. It is a less permanent, malleable protectant that adds a subtle sheen to the metals surface. The protective quality of paste wax can be compromised by heat, acidic liquids and/or sharp objects that might scratch the waxes surface. Paste wax can easily be reapplied when necessary.
Lacquer is a resin-based varnish that will seal surfaces in a more permanent way. The solvents in the liquid lacquer evaporate leaving a hard sealant that is available in a variety of finishes from matte to high gloss. One thing to be aware of when considering the use of a lacquer sealant for your metal tile: it’s VOC (volatile organic compound) content. If you’re concerned with potential off-gassing in your home or workplace, check the manufacturer’s label and try to buy a VOC free lacquer! For more general information on VOC off-gassing, click here.
In either case, before you apply a protectant to your tile, clean it up. You can use any non-abrasive household cleaner for your metal tile. I recommend using a neutral-pH cleaner with a lot of hot water. If you have trouble removing years of oxidation, you can use a soft metal scouring pad to uncover some of the metals natural brilliance. Always use a test tile with your cleaner and/or scotch pad to see if you get the desired results before moving onto the rest of your tile. Once it’s cleaned up, apply your paste wax or lacquer depending on the level of permanence and/or look you’re wanting to achieve.
Unlike your typical factory-edged tile, rectified tile has been cut to size after the firing process. This process creates a precise, 90 degree angle edge and, as a result, can be laid with a tighter grout joint than unrectified tile (as small as 1/16″). If you’re wanting a smooth, sophisticated and continuous look on your floor or walls, choose rectified tile.
You’ll find these rectified tile lines (among others!) in our showroom: Buxy, Groove, Broadway II (18″x24″ only), Zebrano, and Bloom II ceramic wall and porcelain floor tile.
So you’ve just moved to the Northwest (welcome to Seattle!) and barbecue season is fast approaching. How are you going to cover that mound of dirt in your backyard that could so easily be a beautiful patio? Good question. Let’s talk about your possibilities.
With the variable weather here in Seattle, you have limited options for outdoor tile use–quartzite (natural stone) and porcelain tile. Here are a few excellent choices that you’ll find in our showroom:
Sahara Sands Quartzite: This quartzite is more dense than slate which makes it appropriate for outdoor use. Because of its dense, granular structure, Sahara Sands does not accept moisture in a way that will cause it to crack with extreme temperature changes.
Diamond Black Quartzite: Like Sahara Sands, Diamond Black quartzite’s dense make up makes it appropriate for outdoor use. This dark, graphite-colored quartzite has little to no color variation and sparkles with a mica fleck throughout.
Sites porcelain: With its chiseled edge and subtle veining, the Sites line has a traditional look and feel that mimics natural stone. Sites has a moderately textured surface which lends to its low slip resistance rating–another plus for outdoor use.
Natura porcelain: This new line by Italian manufacturer, Mirage, comes in five nature-inspired colors. The density of this porcelain tile makes it extremely durable and frost proof while its linear, textured surface gives it plenty of grip to guard against a slippery surface.
Zebrano porcelain: With a modern look and feel, this through-bodied, rectified porcelain creates a contemporary look both indoors and out. This tile has a subtle linear texture that guards against a slippage in our rainy climate.
Another common question that I am asked in our showroom is whether or not ceramic tile is suitable for countertop use. Here’s my answer: it depends. Really, it does!
More often than not, my answer to this question is no. Here’s why: There are two major characteristics of ceramic tile that typically deem it unsuitable for a countertop that will receive much wear and tear. First, ceramic tile is less dense than porcelain tile (and some natural stone as well) making it a less durable surface for activities like chopping and dicing, or the accidental dropping of kitchen utensils on top of. Secondly, ceramic tile often has a glazed surface (a handpainted or screenprinted matte or gloss finish) that can more easily be chipped, scratched or damaged in some way. Because the body of most ceramic tiles does not match the color of its glazed finish a chip or scratch creates an obvious aesthetic flaw. So, for heavy use surfaces like kitchen countertops or master bathroom vanities, I recommend using porcelain or natural stone.
There are some exceptions to my loose “rule”. Ceramic tile can be used on light-use countertops such as a powder room vanity or a kitchen desk. Our handcrafted line, Flying Tigress, is a great choice for light-use countertops as are Solid and Bloom. Check them out!
Many of you have wanted a definitive answer about whether or not to use crackle tile in your showers. Unfortunately, I don’t have one. But don’t fret, here’s what you need to be aware of when considering crackle tile in a wet application.
According to Richard Scott, owner of Status Handmade Ceramics here in Seattle (see previous post on Status), he does not recommend using crackle tile in the shower or any wet application. However, when questioned further, Richard (who has crackle tile in his shower–gasp!) conceded that home owners and designers can do as they please. They simply need to be aware that crackle tile, when exposed to water, can either cultivate bacteria in its tiny tile crevices or it can be stained by dark-colored liquids such as hair dye or color-enhanced shampoos.
So, if you’ve fallen in love with our Tiffany 3×6″ subway tile, Cristalli’s sunny Miele 5×5″, or the look and feel of Status’ Apple-colored enhanced crackle tile, don’t despair. Just remember these helpful hints (and know that you are taking a bit of a risk):
In a wet application crackle tile needs to be well sealed. This can be done before or after installation but I suggest sealing the tile before and after installation to ensure that your grout color does not soak into the crazed lines and afterwards to seal your grout and to add another layer of protection against moisture damage. Unlike natural stone, once your ceramic crackle tile has been sealed, it should not need to be resealed often in order to protect it from water damage. Of course, we always recommend that you pay attention to the surface of your tile to ensure that the seal is holding.
Use a neutral pH, water-based, penetrating sealer to protect your crackle tile. Wipe the sealer onto the surface of your tile with a soft cloth using enough sealer to penetrate the surface. Wipe off any excess sealer so it does not pool on the surface and potentially change the look and feel of your tile. To find such sealers, stop by your local hardware store or, if you prefer online shopping, check out Aquamix and StonetechPro. Always follow the manufacturers instructions for use!
Once again, Susan’s done it! These are a favorite around here at Statements. If you don’t believe me, check out these reviews heard in our showroom:
“Breakfast in a bundle!” Britt B, Statements Showroom Associate
“I’m in Scone Heaven!”, Kyle, Statements Warehouse Manager
“Don’t even think about touching my scone man.”, Nate talking to James in the Warehouse
“Unreal! Unmatchable! Uncanny!”, Anonymous
“I feel like I’m doing something wrong when I eat these– they’re so good!”, Tonya, Designer and Outside Sales Associate
If you’re interested in trying these scones out for yourself, go to: http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/103680
As a part of our commitment to environmental sustainability, Statements has recently partnered with Renewable Choice Energy to offset all of the carbon emissions that result from the shipping and receiving of our products. We are the first wholesale tile distributor to offer the very best tile from around the world, with the peace of mind of knowing that it’s as green as if it were made locally.
Renewable Choice Energy is a company committed to catalyzing environmental change by offering it’s customers clean energy choices. By harnessing wind power, Renewable Choice provides an alternative to the use of fossil fuels that exact a toll on our natural environment.
On May 2nd, fashionistas, architects and interior designers alike will descend upon the South Lake Union Armory in Seattle to show off their ingenius clothing designs inspired by the most unexpected products. Sheets of plastic mesh, irredescent tile mosaics and colorful fabric swatches–materials that usually adorn the spaces we inhabit–are just some of the products that will be used to clothe the models in Seattle’s Product Runway. Statements donated materials to a team of Canadian designers who will show off their whimsical wedding dress in tomorrow nights event. To see this dress, read the article below from Canada’s Metro Newspaper.
http://www.metronews.ca/vancouver/local/article/46749
If you’ve ever walked through our showroom doors on a Tuesday or a Friday, you’ve probably been bombarded by the smell of home-baked cookie heaven. These sweet aromas can only mean one thing: our hospitality guru, Susan Feiker, is creating fresh, delicious treats for our customers. Stop by and have a taste for yourself!
In this section, aptly named ciao chow, we will feature Susan’s creations. Okay, some are Susan’s and some are Martha’s….But in either case, if you like what you taste, you’ll find the recipes here.
Chocolate Chip Hazlenut Scones
