Tile Installation in Charleston, SC

Numerous types of tiles are available for tile installation in Charleston, SC with various materials, each suited to various applications and tile designs.

• Ceramic Tiles: Both glazed and unglazed, ceramic tiles are versatile and durable, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
• Porcelain: Porcelain tiles, known for their strength and moisture resistance, are ideal for high-traffic areas. Natural stone tiles, such as marble and granite, offer a unique and elegant look.
• Glass Tiles: Glass tiles come in various colors and sizes and are commonly used for decorative purposes. Mosaic tiles feature intricate patterns and are often used decoratively.
• Terracotta Tiles: Terracotta tiles have a rustic appearance, while quarry tiles are durable and moisture-resistant.
• Vinyl: Vinyl tiles are affordable and resilient, metal tiles add a modern touch, and cement tiles offer intricate designs.
• Cork: Cork tiles are eco-friendly, while wood-look tiles mimic wood with added durability.
• Other Common Types of Tile: Pebble tiles provide a textured look, and resin tiles offer customization. Linoleum and wood-look tiles are sustainable options, making each tile type suitable for specific needs and aesthetics.

The biggest difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles is their construction. Although both are made from clay and water, porcelain also contains other minerals, such as quartz and feldspar. As a result, porcelain tiles are much denser and less porous than ceramic tiles.

Given that porcelain tiles aren't as porous, that also makes them far more durable for tile installation in Charleston, SC. They're less likely to chip, compared to ceramic, and can handle being installed outdoors as well as indoors.

Additionally, porcelain tiles have what's known as a through-body color. What that means is that the top layer of the tile matches the body of the tile; or they have what's known as a color body, meaning that the body of the tile is a close match to the color of the tile's surface.

With these differences in mind, you can opt for porcelain tile installation in Charleston, SC for areas that see a high amount of traffic, as they'll take the wear and tear better while also not showing it as much as ceramic. Typically, ceramic tiles have a red or brown body color, which is quite noticeable if the surface is chipped or worn down.

The biggest difference between floor tiles and wall tiles is their levels of thickness. Floor tiles are sturdy and thick, allowing them to withstand a lot of foot traffic. Conversely, wall tiles are much thinner and lighter, which makes for easier installation. Although certain types of floor tiles can be installed on a wall, that greatly depends on their size and weight. However, you should never install tiles designed to be installed on walls on the floor, because they aren't designed to hold up to the wear and tear.

Additionally, wall tiles tend to be much more decorative, often possessing unique finishes and 3D textures that make them impractical for flooring. These tiles also tend to be much smaller than floor tiles, because mosaics are a popular choice when it comes to a backsplash installation.

Whether you're looking for a tile floor installation or wall tile installation in Charleston, SC, Mr. Handyman has years of experience in tile installation, so we can handle installing tiles on your floor or wall. We can also provide advice for future tile and custom tile projects, with advice from our expert tile installers. If you're looking for a perfect tile installation in Charleston, SC, look no further than the experienced tile installers at Mr. Handyman.

Tiles effectively combat moisture due to their inherent properties and the way they are installed. Here's how tiles help prevent moisture-related issues:

• Non-Porous Surface: Many types of tiles, such as ceramic, porcelain, and glazed tiles, have non-porous surfaces. This means that these types of surfaces do not absorb moisture. Instead, water remains on the tile's surface, where it can be easily wiped away. This characteristic is especially important in areas prone to spills and moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens.
• Water-Resistant Materials: Tiles are often made from materials that are naturally resistant to water, such as clay or porcelain. These materials do not break down or deteriorate when moisture is exposed, ensuring your Charleston tile installation's longevity.
• Grout Sealing: While the tiles may be water-resistant, the grout lines between them are susceptible to moisture penetration. To combat this, grout lines are sealed using a grout sealer. This sealant forms a protective barrier that prevents water from seeping into the substrate beneath the tiles.
• Proper Sloping and Drainage: In areas like showers, where moisture is prevalent, tiles are often installed on a sloped surface with a central drain. This slope ensures that water flows towards the drain and doesn't accumulate on the tile surface or penetrate the substrate.
• Underlayment and Waterproofing: In some cases, especially in wet areas like bathrooms, an underlayment or waterproofing membrane is installed beneath the tiles. This membrane provides an extra layer of protection against moisture intrusion, preventing water from reaching the subfloor.
• Tight Joints: Properly installed tiles have tight grout joints, minimizing the spaces where moisture could seep through. This tight fit of joints between tiles helps to prevent moisture-related issues.
• Regular Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance of tiled surfaces, including resealing grout lines if necessary, help maintain the moisture resistance of the installation over time.

When it comes to a perfect tile installation in Charleston, SC, you want to choose the finish of your tile. Often, it depends on where you plan on having the tile installed. That being said, there are three finishes available for porcelain and ceramic tiles: glazed, polished, and unglazed.

• Glazed: Consider a tile's glaze to be the finishing touch. It protects your tile from moisture and stains. The majority of ceramic tiles available commercially are glazed, but some do prefer the natural look of unglazed tiles. Glaze can also make tiles even more slippery when wet, so it's recommended that you go for a textured tile if you intend to use it in a bathroom or other water-prone area.
• Polished: If you want a flawless finish, polished porcelain tiles are ground down so that they have a beautiful sheen, much like natural stone (i.e., marble or granite). A polish top coat is added to protect the tile from dirt and debris, giving you a sharp-looking floor that requires less maintenance and still provides you with a glossy look.
• Unglazed: There's no finish added to unglazed ceramic tiles after they've been fired. Although they offer a more earthy, natural look than their glazed counterparts, they aren't as water-resistant and require more maintenance. Although these tiles can be used in kitchens and bathrooms, their maintenance requirements are higher when compared to glazed ceramic tiles.