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Frequently Asked Questions
Won't my tile crack if I drop something hard on it?
Isn't tile expensive?
Isn't a tile floor hard on your feet and back?
Aren't tile floors cold?
Doesn't grout get dirty?
What do I need to bring when I visit your showroom?
How much tile will I need?
How do I clean my tile?
What are the benefits of Granite over Corian?
Won't Granite/Marble stain if used on a countertop?
Is ceramic tile fire resistant?
How about hygiene?
Will ceramic tile fade?
Q. Won't my tile crack if I drop something hard on it?
A. Ceramic tile is one of the most durable flooring products on the market. It can be used for all types of applications, both commercially and residentially. However, if your tile is not properly installed, it is susceptible to cracking or chipping. If you are unsure about installing it yourself we can offer helpful tips, or refer you to a professional installer.
Q. Isn't tile expensive?
A. As compared to what? When you consider the long-term cost, it's actually one of the least expensive types of flooring. For Example: A tile that costs $400.00 and lasts for over 50 years has a lifetime cost of $8.00 per year. A carpet floor that costs $400.00 and lasts for 10 years has a lifetime cost of $40.00 per year. Furthermore, most realtors will tell you that ceramic tile increases the resale value of your home, thus, ceramic tile is an excellent investment.
Q. Isn't a tile floor hard on your feet and back?
A. Standing on any floor for a long period of time is difficult. Ceramic tile and natural stone fall into the same category as wood, linoleum and laminate - hard surface flooring. We recommend a mat or padded rug in areas where you might stand for extended periods.
Q. Aren't tile floors cold?
A. Tile actually isn't any colder than other types of flooring, but if this cold feeling is an important issue, we'd be glad to tell you about our inexpensive floor warming system. With our NuHeat system, you can regulate the floor temperature with the touch of a thermostat. Other solutions are to use throw rugs in those area where warmth is a concern.
Q. Doesn't grout get dirty?
A. Yes - grout gets dirty along with the rest of the floor, but this is a problem that can be easily prevented. The first step is to choose the right color grout for the installation. (For instance, a light color in a heavy traffic area may discolor.) The second step is to seal the grout after it's installed. Properly sealed grout is very easy to clean. We'd be glad to assist you in choosing the proper materials for sealing your grout.
Q. What do I need to bring when I visit your showroom?
A. Before you stop by our nearest store, just follow these few simple steps...
- Measure your room (or the area to be tiled). We will gladly assist you in figuring out your square footage. A simple drawing of your room layout is a great help too!
- Bring in samples of other decor. A piece of wallpaper, a cabinet door, or countertops will help us find the perfect match for your room.
- Have a budget in mind. We want to help you achieve the look you want, within a comfortable budget.
- Do research. Keep an eye out for the styles you like. Some home/design magazines are a good place to start.
Q. How much tile will I need?
A. All of our tile is sold by the square foot. A simple estimate is to take the Length x Width of your room to determine the square footage. Add 10% to 15% for waste. (10% for a straight installation, 15% for a diagonal installation or a room with intricate cuts).
Q. How do I clean my tile?
A. Simply vacuum, and damp sponge mop. Use 1 tablespoon of mild, soapless dish detergent per 1 gallon of water. If you use a household cleaner, make sure it's neutral - non-acidic and non-alkaline. For a more soiled, area you can stop into our showroom to purchase any of the commercial cleaning products we recommend, or visit Aquamix.com for instructions on cleaning particular installations.
Q. What are the benefits of Granite over Corian?
A. Granite is a natural stone with an inherent beauty that is unequalled in Corian. Once a granite countertop is properly sealed it is impervious to acids, alkalis, extreme heat, grease and stains. Granite is also scratch resistant, where as Corian can be easily scratched.
Q. Won't Granite/Marble stain if used on a countertop?
A. A Granite or Marble countertop that is fabricated by the Mees Stone Shop will be sealed and polished by our natural stone experts to help prevent staining.
Q. Is ceramic tile fire resistant?
A. Ceramic tiles are totally fireproof at any temperature. They will not burn, or feed a fire. Also, ceramic tiles will not give off toxic fumes.
Q. How about hygiene?
A. Ceramic tile is ideal for any application where hygiene is essential. Glazed ceramic tiles will not retain liquids, fumes, odors or smoke. Furthermore, tile can be easily and thoroughly cleaned with detergents.
Q. Will ceramic tile fade?
A. While most materials will fade after long exposure to light, the colors in ceramics are unaffected.
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