Almost everyone, starting to repair or build their own home, first of all make an estimate of upcoming expenses. A person who is far from construction in everyday life may have difficulties in choosing building materials. And today we will try to help you by answering the most frequently asked questions about choosing a tile.
Question one: Which is better??-overpay and buy tiles from Spain or Italy, or give preference to domestic manufacturers operating in a lower price segment ‘- In any case, this is more a matter of design and the money that you agree to spend on repairs or construction. Having overpaid 2-3 times, it is not a fact that you will win in quality. Moreover, the leading Russian and Belarusian manufacturers have practically grown together with the Italian and Spanish industrial groups. (for example, “KeramaMarazzi”, “Italon”, “Azori”, “Keramin”). The factories of these manufacturers use Italian equipment, attract foreign experts in the field of design and technology, and conduct strict quality control. Question two: How to calculate the number of tiles’ – There are at least two ways. First, you can make scale drawings of your space, draw a laying pattern based on known tile dimensions, and count the number of pieces. Secondly, you can contact a design specialist (if you have an additional amount of money for his services) or go to a specialized store to buy tiles. In most specialized stores, simple and even complex designs are provided free of charge, and they will help you with the calculations. In any case, we advise you to leave a margin of about 5% of the calculated amount of material in case of subsequent repairs (one tile broke, a plumber “messed up”, etc.).P.) Buying tiles “butt” and “just short” is a bad economy and may backfire in the future. Question three: How to find out if a tile is good or not? – There is such a thing as price / quality ratio. The more exclusive the design and the higher the parameters of strength and wear resistance (more on this indicator below), the higher the price. It is clear that it is stupid to demand from tiles worth 100-250 rubles / sq. m. Italian quality. Approximate prices for domestic tiles – 450-1000 r / sq.m. This price range has excellent design collections. Strength, wear resistance, geometric dimensions are normalized by standards and declared by the manufacturer. This data can be requested from the seller. Geometrically, don’t expect the building material, which is tile, to have the same accuracy as turbine blades – such accuracy is simply not needed in this case. Question fourth: is it possible to finish the walls with floor tiles’ – it is possible if this is required to conside the design. But the wall tiles cannot be placed on the floor – it is not intended for this. In general, when choosing floor tiles, it is necessary that its wear resistance (PEI) corresponds to operating conditions. PEI3 – suitable for SANTHUZLOV, partly kitchen and hallway in sparsely populated apartments. PEI4 – all of the above, with a higher degree of load (covered terraces, cafes, shops, restaurants with low patency). PEI5 – Any rooms. Question fifth: what is porcelain tile (Gres) ‘ – porcelain tile (synonym Gres) – ceramic material that differs from tiles with increased density and strength. He is frosted, so it can be used on the street (steps, basins, open terraces). It can be polished, embossed, covered with a layer of glaze, etc.P.) It should be noted that polished porcelain tiles, especially light ones, easily “accept” such contaminants as oils, ink, even spilled tea. All of the above leaves almost indelible stains. Such granite requires the use of special care and protection products, although it is very decorative. Question six: What is “color difference” and caliber’ – When buying a tile, you need to keep in mind that each batch differs from the others in color shade and actual size (within the standard, of course). The hue is called tone and has a numerical designation indicated on the package. The real size is called “caliber” and has a letter designation, which is also indicated on the packaging. Differences in caliber and tone are not considered defects and are acceptable, but when ordering, it is better to specify the requirements for batch uniformity separately. By the way, this is one of the reasons why it is better to take tiles with a margin. And a few more tips: – carefully choose a laying master. Good masters can even show a “portfolio”. “Uncle Vasya” or “Jamshut” will be taken inexpensively, but the result can be (and, in most cases, it happens!) very sad. – remember that tiles are only part of your expenses; they usually forget that surface preparation, glue, grout, impregnation and much more are needed. – do not chase unreasonable savings. Tiles can last decades if done right. And it is better to invest a little more money and opt for a modern and interesting collection.