A mixture of clays that are pressed into shape and fired at high temperatures which gives the tile it's hardness. The bisque, or body, of ceramic tile may then be glazed, or left unglazed depending on it's intended use.

• Glazed

The most common style today in floor and wall tiles, as well as for residential and commercial applications. A liquid glass is applied to the body of the tile and fired at high temperatures.

• Unglazed

There is no glazing or any other coating applied to the tile. Their color is the same on the face of the tile as it is on the back resulting in very durable tiles that do not show the effects of heavy traffic. The most common unglazed tiles are the red quarry tiles or the granite looking porcelain ceramic tiles used in heavy commercial areas.

Definition

Also known as china tile or fully vitrified stoneware, porcelain tile contains the raw materials similar to those used for manufacturing china. The result is a non porous bisque of high mechanical strength that can be used for interior or exterior floors. While these tiles used to be nearly all unglazed, these tiles are now made either glazed or unglazed. Special effects can also be created to the unglazed tiles by polishing the surface or by applying a thin layer of glass to the surface. Porcelian tile is very durable, good for commercial applications.