Product FAQ

What is the difference between Ceramic tile and Porcelain tile? Porcelain is actually a ceramic tile with a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%; ceramic absorption ranges between 3% and 7%. Porcelain is made with less clay and more feldspar or equivalent mineral that's more finely ground, subjected to higher pressure and fired longer. As a result, porcelain is much stronger.

What is the difference between Porcelain Tile and Natural Stone? Natural Stone is becoming increasingly more popular to use not only outside, but inside your home. With the popularity of Natural Stone you will find that many Porcelains today are being created to replicate the look of Natural Stone. Some points of comparison are:

• Natural Stone is just that. A work of nature that enhances any environment it is added to.
• Depending on the look you want for your home, Porcelain is generally more consistent in pattern and size. Natural Stone tends to be quite varied.
• Porcelain is stronger than most stone and less maintenance.
• All Natural Stone products need to be sealed properly and reapplied after 1-3 years, depending on the sealer. For more information on sealing stone you can visit Aqua Mix.

What type of natural stone do you stock? We bring in large quantities of stone directly from Mexico and China, such as, Quartzitic Sandstone, Travertine and Slate. We also offer a variety of granite and marble tiles. For a complete listing of our stone items in stock, please visit our Natural Stone section found in the Products category.

What kind of tile is safe for use outdoors? When safety is a factor in a wet outdoor environment, we recommend using a tile that meets or exceeds a co-efficency of friction of >.6; a guideline set by the American Disabilities Act.

Do you offer a stain resistant grout? We offer the revolutionary grout called SpectraLOCK PRO manufactured by Laticrete International. This grout provides Strength, Stain & Chemical Resistance, Color Consistency, Excellent Color Selection, Inhibits growth of mold and Low maintenance.

Do you have glassblock in stock? We stock Pittsburgh Corning Glass Block in the Styles Décora in 8x8 Regular, 8x8 Thinline and Icescapes in 8x8 Regular. Also available are all the setting materials to finish your project.

Do you have every thing I need to complete my tile project? We have everything you need from start to finish. Our product lines include the tile or stone surface chosen, setting materials, backerboards, waterproofing, sealers and the professional sales staff to answer your installation questions. For additional setting material information please visit Custom Products website.