Tile Glossary

Ceramic Tile – a clay-bodied tile which is typically glazed and fired at lower temperatures less dense and with greater water-absorbency then a porcelain tile. Ceramic tiles are usually glazed and are often for wall use only because of this, but many can be used on both walls and floors. Ceramic tiles are suitable for all internal, residential applications.

Glazed – A coloured glaze is applied to tiles prior to firing; colours range from muted neutral shades through to bold, vibrant tones.

Grout – the filler between tiles

Lappato – means in Italian “semi polished” and porcelain tiles made with the use of this technique have very interesting designs.

Non-rectified – Porcelain or Ceramic tiles are cut to size prior to the firing process. The firing process then causes expected shrinkage and warpage. These tiles are graded after firing but do not undergo any additional cutting. Because of this, greater variation in size between tiles should be expected than with a rectified tile. Sizes within ranges should not be mixed.

Polished – A highly–reflective, gloss finish applied to the surface of tiles.

Porcelain Tile – a refined white clay-bodied tile which has been fired at a higher temperature than ceramic to create a harder, denser tile. Typically found on floors and walls.

Rectified Edge – This term is applied to Porcelain or Ceramic tiles that are cut to size after the firing process. Rectified tiles are ‘dimensionally stable’ and will exhibit little variation in size of tiles from one production run. These tiles will provide a very clean, symmetrical look and can be laid flush if preferred, almost without any joints.

Sealer – a liquid coating applied before or after tiling to ‘seal’ tiles from surface damage such as staining.