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Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tile is a finished product composed of greyish clay, feldspar, silica sand, and talc. It contains more feldspar than ceramic tile and is fired in a kiln to temperatures exceeding 2300 degrees F. It can be either unglazed or glazed. These higher firing temperatures give the clay body greater resistance to freeze-thaw effects because it absorbs far less moisture than ceramic tile. In fact, porcelain tile has a moisture absorption rate of no more than 0.5%, whereas a red-body ceramic tile has a moisture absorption rate of about 4%.

Glass Tile

Glass tile can be as small as 1/4" x 1/4" and as large as 4" x 16" or even larger. It can be integrally colored or have a painted backing to provide color and a textured look.

Marble

Marble is a metamorphic, or changed, rock composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals, most commonly calcite or dolomite. In other words, marble refers to limestone that has been transformed through geologic processes such as heat, pressure, and the intrusion of minerals that create veining and other natural characteristics. Marble is fairly porous, so it should be sealed after installation. It is an excellent choice for interior use.

Travertine

Travertine is a mineral consisting of layered calcium carbonate (calcite) deposits formed near springs, especially hot springs. It is more like a limestone than a marble. Its colors range from warm, earthy tones and soft ivories and creams to deep mocha browns, shades of gold, reds, and silvery greens. Travertine is never solid in color because veins and mineral bands run throughout the stone, making every tile unique. Travertine also tends to have natural holes caused by the escape of carbon dioxide gas. It is excellent for interior use and is also often used outdoors in the form of pavers.

Slate

Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic, or changed, rock that splits into thin, smooth-surfaced layers. It is created by the alteration of shale or mudstone through low-grade regional metamorphism, which is the changing of rock as a result of pressure and heat. Slate is popular for a wide variety of uses, especially flooring, because of its durability and attractive appearance. It can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Quartzite

Quartzite is a metamorphic, or changed, rock composed almost entirely of quartz. It forms when quartz-rich sandstone is altered by heat, pressure, and chemical processes. These conditions recrystallize the sand grains and the silica cement that binds them together, resulting in a stone of incredible strength. Quartzite can be used both indoors and outdoors.