Frank Discussion About Tile

For those of you that are interested in possibly installing your floor you may want to check out A hand book by TCNA to see all the different methods that are available and product ,  there is a cost to the book however. go to www.tilesusa.com  

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There are many different shower instillation kits but personally I like the Kerdi kit from Schluter .

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An article came across my desk today which had a pertinent global business focus. With the weak US dollar, US manufactures are now focusing on exporting and expanding their facilities, I for see carpet being a major leader in this sector, it will be interesting to see how tile in general will do.

With this in mind I noticed Ceramic Tiles of Italy is now accepting entries into its annual design competition. Here Architects and designers are encouraged to submit projects they worked on over the past 5 years: Up for grabs are cash prices ($5000 for the winner in each category) and a number of trips abroad. Feel free to check it out at www.tilecompetition.com.

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Modern times are seeing a change in consumer tastes. Out, are the conventional 12×12 and 16×16 inch tiles. In, are the larger format tiles such as 18×18, 12×24 and 16×24. Finishes such as honed, antique and brushed are becoming more popular as well as the lighter colors (shades). Carrara for example is not only being used as a floor tile but it is now making its way onto countertops and vanities as homeowners are looking for modern fresh tones to brighten rooms. Format for wall tile has also seen a change; 3×6, 6×12 and 12×18 have become the sizes of choice combined with the different finishes mentioned above. These finishes and sizes are also becoming more prominent on outdoor wall cladding where in the past granite was the preferred material (tumbled paving products are also becoming more visible in outdoor use). 

Factories are recognizing that they need to be more innovative, they are launching lines with more accessories and developing new technologies such as thinner tile to insure they stay competitive all while maintaining a high standard of quality. Factories are going to greater length to source new quarries in the hope of finding the next “big thing”. A wider range of sales channels are also being investigated in an attempt to give the consumer a more cost effective product. Builders are looking for a product that will help sell there homes faster when in the past the interior of the house was largely neglected.

Builddirect works with both the factory and the end user making marble more affordable.  

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