Ceramic Tile, Floor Tile,& Bathroom Tile, Stone Tile
Villa Lagoon Tile--- Cement Tile--These colorful tiles are almost indestructible and
are the same type used for centuries all over the
world. Encaustic mosaic cement tiles are perfect for coastal areas and
VillaLagoonTile.com is bringing them to the USA in colors that work well
in State-side interiors. www.VillaLagoonTile.com
Sintra Antique Tiles, brings a very
exquisite European tradition to clients in North America. They have put together a
collection ranging from well priced , good quality hand painted tiles, the azul
collection, and hand made and hand painted period reproduction tiles. Many are available
directly from their stocks in South Florida, requiring no waiting time. You simply have to
see these fabulous ceramic tiles. The Sintra Antique Tiles site shows Spanish murals,
Portuguese murals, traditional azul tiles, and tons of fabulous ceramic tiles. Or, they
say, be original and send them your own creation. they can faithfully reproduce it and
produce it in large quantities within three to six weeks. www.sintraantiquetiles.com
StonePeak Ceramics-In the hills of Tennessee's Smoky Mountains, is a company with a uniquely American character that honors the time-proven tradition of fine Italian porcelain ceramics. Italian styled tile made in the U.S.A. StonePeak: makes American floor tile, wall tiles, porcelain tile flooring for commercial and residential tile flooring. One of their very cool designs is the leather look tile in the Touch series. The individual square tiles have a line of stitching all around the edges, lending a stitched leather look to the tile. They also make unglazed american porcelain tile and flooring . Finely woven fabrics inspire the exclusive texture of StonePeak Ceramics' Fashion collection. This thru-color porcelain line is delivered in three elegant, stylish colors. StonePeak's Terrain series includes a variety of rich earth tone colors that convey a warm, rustic feel. The Terrain tiles come in two separate glazed finishes that provide each tile with its own unique design by minimizing the appearance of a repeating pattern. The factory and production techniques are completely sensitive to the environment, from recycling and water purification to heat recapture.
www.stonepeakceramics.com
Heath Ceramics Tiles--Since Edith Heath became the first non-architect to win the prestigious AIA Gold Medal Award for the exterior tile on Pasadena's Norton Simon Museum, Heath tile has been known for its high quality and style. Heath tile has a handcrafted feel in its glazes that contrasts with the crisp modern lines of its shapes. Heath Tiles tiles are made from durable high-fire stoneware bases suitable for interiors, exteriors, floors, walls counters, pools & fountains. They sell Heathware direct through the factory store (phone orders for direct shipping ) and retail accounts, as well as direct to restaurants around the country. Heath Tile is sold direct to homeowners, direct to the trade, and through Ann Sacks showrooms. Be sure to have a look at the pdf file of sale items and seconds available. www.heathceramics.com
Sonoma Tiles, handcrafted in America by really nice people. How can you not love a tile manufacturer with a slogan like that. They make lots of tiles with rich textures, colors and designs. Some lines are made to order and take 4 to 6 weeks for delivery. Sonama Tiles makes tiles with metal finishes, copper, lead, to silver nickel. The 'quick ship' section features tiles that can be delivered in a week. The Sonoma Tiles website gives showroom locations for every state. Their classy website has wonderfully inspiring tile design ideas and even photos of the folks who make up the company. www.sonomatilemakers.com
Gainey Ceramics--Since the 1950's Gainey Ceramics has been a California original in the ceramic biz. Starting as a small job shop in Inglewood California just down the street from Los Angeles International Airport, the company began as a producer of crockery and pet feeders. Now Gainey produces very artistic high relief ceramic tile and coordinating flat tile in several lines. You can download the complete catalogs in PDF format on their website. Their newest line is : Florentine, a handcrafted tile of leaf and floral designs. www.gaineyceramics.com
Walker Zanger --a large tile company covering just about every area of tile materials--ceramic, glass, terra cotta, stone, metal tile, mosaics. Walker Zanger has been in biz for 50 years. Catering to both the consumer and professional market, Walker Zanger combines Old World stone and tile-making tradition with modern sophistication. The resulting aesthetics make Walker Zanger the most comprehensive stone and ceramic tile company in the world. They have such a comprehensive product line that the full 284 page catalog is $36 !!, better use the website :o) www.walkerzanger.com
Zsolnay Tile Museum, A 'must see' website---The Zsolnay factory became a leader in industrial ceramics production throughout the Austro-Hungarian Empire. A display of the complex range of artistic tile production of the Zsolnay factory from the earliest era through the turn-of-the century up to WWI. The Zsolnay Tile Museum represents the private collection of Federico Santi and John Gacher, owners of The Zsolnay Store of Newport, Rhode Island. http://www.drawrm.com/ztilemus.htm
Duquella Tile of Portland, Oregon are designers and handcrafters of decorative ceramic tiles using traditional European techniques. arts and crafts tile and art deco tile for murals, trims, and accents. They use traditional European decorative methods in crafting their art tile - tubelining and cuerda seca. No molds or machines are involved in making tile. All decorative work is done by hand. Duquella Tile specializes in arts & crafts tile, bungalow, mission, craftsman, art nouveau tile and art deco tile. They create murals, decorative borders, trims, accent tile, half tile , fireplace surrounds and decorative house numbers. There are many images of their tiles on their website. Cuerda Seca is a Moorish technique further developed by the Spanish. The images on each tile are outlined by a narrow black line and the resulting enclosed areas are filled with glaze. After the final firing the black lines are recessed producing a basso-relievo effect. At Duquella Tile, they craft the house numbers and geometric border tiles using this method. Awesome tiles, and be sure to see the murals that have coordinating individual 6 inch tile and border tiles available. www.tiledecorative.com
Art Tile Studio is a website specializing in custom, historic-styled tile -- both reproductions and adaptations inspired by many historic styles and designs. They offer a 4-color printed catalog showing many different lines of tile. Within each line are a number of coordinating patterns in various sizes and designs. What is shown in the catalog (and on the web pages) represents about 10% of what they do. They use the catalog as an educational tool, to help clients visualize what tile patterns are appropriate for each historic building style. Most of their work is commissioned. All of Art Tile Studio's jobs are filled on a per-job basis -- nothing is in stock. They work in a wide variety of art styles and techniques. Traditional tile installations encompass fully tiled kitchens, baths, fireplaces, walls and floors. Unusual historic applications for their custom, hand painted tile include wall and floor murals, fountains, pools, spas and custom furniture. www.designsintile.com
Motawi Tileworks of Ann Arbor, Michigan is an art tile studio specializing in the Arts & Crafts style. They also have celtic & medieval styled tile. Their tile is meant to be used in a number of ways. The low-relief and polychrome tiles are for accenting installations, and are also sold singly as art pieces. They come with a notch on the back for hanging. Motawi Tileworks also have architectural borders, moldings, v-caps, bullnoses and other trims for special building installations. If none of these fits the bill, Motawi Tileworks also makes custom pieces. You can buy landscape and riverscape tiles online. www.motawistore.com
Tierra y Fuego Mexican Tiles, Importers of Selected Handmade Quality Mexican Tile. "Tierra y Fuego" in Spanish translates to "Earth and Fire" in English. They have a collection of the highest quality genuine hand molded, hand painted and high relief colorful ceramic Mexican tiles. They sell online and have matching ceramic sinks, pull knobs, switchplates, and Artistic Murals. They offer nice animal design tiles, especially the fish--many styles. The website has a nice photo gallery of Mexican tile installations. See the collection of authentic handmade and hand painted talavera tiles. Copper sinks too ! Usually ships within 48 hours. www.tierrayfuego.com
Saltillo Tile Company of Albuqueruqe & Santa Fe distributes the finest Mexican glazed tiles for wall and floor finishing, as well as an infinite range of accessories, creating finishing details. They have a large collection of handpainted Mexican tiles. All decorative wall tiles are made in 4 1/4 by 4 1/4 inch size. Ceramic sinks are available in all decorative styles. They carry Mexican terra cotta floor tiles. SUPREME TALAVERA - high fired, hand painted talavera tiles available in a squared edge (cortado) or rounded edge (boleado). Tiles are 4 1/4 by 4 1/4 . There are 100 pieces per box. There are 8 pieces per square foot. Saltillo Tile offers many Mexican hand painted decorative tile border tiles too. www.saltillotilecompany.com
Monterey Ceramic Tile and Marble stocks hundreds of patterns and colors, including a full line of trim and an array of decorative liners. Tile from their extensive online catalog may be ordered online. The handcrafted tiles from Mexico are unique works of art. Decorative Arte de Mexico tiles have inherent irregularities in shading, size and texture that add to the rustic appeal. Patterns in the Arte de Mexico style include animals, plants and decorative flourishes. Tiles are painted in bold colors of blue, deep orange, yellow and rust. A HUGE selection of special tiles are available online. www.montereyceramictile.com
Hastings Tile and Bath--Hastings is known for providing high-quality, trend-setting bath and tile products to designers, architects, building trade professionals and homeowners. Through its own showrooms and a national network of the finest bath and tile dealers, Hastings provides both contemporary and traditional designs imported from the finest European manufacturers . With a diverse selection of ceramic, porcelain, glass, and stone tile & trim; faucets, coordinating accessories, tile and mosaics. www.hastingstilebath.com
Cancos Tile Corp. is a family owned and
operated business and has been a ceramic tile, marble and granite agent, importer,
distributor and retailer since 1953. They are a Long Island based company. Cancos has ten
designer showrooms. stock a full line of marble, granite, tumbled stone, mosaics, and
limestone tiles along with matching slabs. They stock porcelain tiles that that are
polished, unpolished or glazed in various sizes. Cancos Tile also has a unique glass tile
line whose sizes range from 1” x 1” to 24” x 24”. These glass tiles
and mosaics are available in over forty-five colors and require no special installations.
Cancos Tile also has a wide selection of metallic tiles. Their fabrication department,
which has three precision water jet cutting machines, can do custom work where fine
craftsmanship, precision, and accuracy are needed. I have read that their prices are very
good, even when the distance is great. www.cancos.com
Studio Tiles offers kitchen backsplash, bath, pool and spa tile murals and decorative insert tiles. StudioTiles offers exclusive and exquisite stone tile and glass tile collections designed by artist Bettina Elsner. All StudioTiles Ltd. Edition Murals, decorative inserts and decorative frames / borders are for use on interior walls only. Not intended to be used on floors or other applications where abrasion may occur. The website shows many,many georgous stone and ceramic borders and tiles that can be used to great effect. They offer custom painted tile mural backsplash type designs for walls at prices that seem quite reasonable. If no local dealer is nearby, they will let you order direct. www.studiotiles.com
E J Harpham of E J Tilescapes-Pacific Tilescapes ,Custom Handpainted Ceramic Tile, Sinks, and Pottery. From individual accent tiles on kitchen back splashes or murals in swimming pools to sinks in bathrooms and bar counters, EJTilescapes hand painted artwork is a distinctive addition to any home. Each individual tile is hand painted and combined to form a large mural design for kitchens, bathrooms or outdoor applications. See some beautiful house name and house number plaques on her website in addition to the large scale ceramic tile murals. www.pacifictilescapes.com
Westminster Ceramic Tile has an irritating website with Flash and moving pix and ambigious navigation. They seem to make very plain solid color tiles with matching borders and in some cases, matching mosaic borders. I suppose the tile is of high quality and the finish looks satin and smooth, probably best for very plain sophisticated bath and kitchen applications. www.westminsterceramics.com
Floors Only: You will be amazed at the wide
selection of colors, sizes, and shapes that are available on the Internet. You can order
thru them the following brands; DalTile, Florida Tile, Shaw Ceramic
Mohawk Ceramic, Emser Tile, Impo Tile, Bedrossian Tile, Marazzi Tile, Cerdomus Tile.
Floors Only includes shipping in it's tile prices--so keep that in mind when checking
online prices. This site does nothave good photos of the ceramic tile, so this is a good
site to ck prices for tile that you have selected elsewhere. www.ceramic.floorsonly.com
YurtBay Ceramic Tiles from Turkey--great vcolors on
reasonable priced tiles. We used the Paris Green, which is really a soft, clear, Aqua, on
the floor of a Gulf Coast property and it looks fabulous. The Paris Blue would be a good
choice for floor tile at the beach too. Their website includes some interactive software to
see the ceramic tile in various configurations. Using Interactive Ceramic Tiling all
Yurtbay ceramic products can be viewed on photos such as bathroom, kitchen,
hall, and terraces and you can change the wall paint colors, tiles, etc to simulate different
combinations. YurtBay products are distributed by various companies in the U.S.,...
unfortunately the official YurtBay Ceramin Tile site doesn't give a list, so you will have
to search by location and tile name to find a local distributor. The English version: www.yurtbay.com.tr/en/index.asp
Ann Sacks has some way cool tile, Ann Sacks was first to offer traditional glass mosaic for walls and floors in large contemporary formats. Founded in 1981, Ann Sacks offers high quality tile to design professionals and home owners. The company is now a division of the Kohler Co. Ann Sacks Tile is available at larger tile supply companies. The website can show you their current tile designs, but you can't order online, you'll have to order thru an authorized dealer. www.annsacks.com
Today I spent about 5 hours putting together three examples of cool bathroom tile walls using stock tiles. I envision the tile going almost to the ceiling. I based these designs on Trikeenan Tileworks tile offerings. I copied the graphics from their website into Photoshop Elements and changed the colors, etc. until they matched both colors that Trikenan shows as standard colors and also to match an aqua toilet and also two deep lime green sinks that I found in debris after our 'major storms' (the "H" word). My thinking is that since one only spends a small percentage of the day in one's bathroom, why not have beautiful, dramatic color.
The big deal of the moment seems to be 'subway tile' which is simply the brick style pattern like the example on the left above. I think you will find that most any tile company can provide so called subway tile since it is just rectangular tile laid like brick pattern.
Trikeenan Tileworks Inc. sells a variety of decorative tiles in colors that closely reflect the early 20th Century Mission and Prairie styles. Trikeenan manufactures an expressive palette of 65 colors carried over 19 decorative lines of tile, 30 mesh-mounted ceramic mosaic patterns and 15 moldings. Trikeenan colors have a long-standing reputation for uniqueness and depth of range. All of their tile is made from high fired stone-ware resulting in not only a very distinct color palette. It is also an extraordinarily dense, hard tile, suitable for a wide range of applications from floors and walls, to pools and outdoor landscape design. Custom work--including murals, they will hand paint a one-of-a-kind tile mural to your specifications. Their tiles have funny names too...have a look. www.trikeenan.com
Siciliano Marble and Granite has been in
this business for over 20 years. They offer retail sales of marbles, granites, travertines
and onyx in slabs and tiles. Siciliano can handle the manufacturing of your kitchen or
bathroom countertops as well as the installation. The website has limited information, I
imagine that they actually have colors and stone that is not shown. Their print ads sat
they have an extensive collection of marbles and granites of the highest quality in slabs
and tiles at exceptional prices. Located in the Miami, FL area. www.sicilianomarble.com
Maestro Mosaics ... Huge array of products. Full line of glass mosaic,
stone mosaic, glass tile, and stone tile, as well as matching stone countertops. You need
to see the fabulous stone sinks to believe them. Full line of coordinated marble, onyx,
granite, quartz and limestone tiles and countertops. Directly imported from over 16
countries. Maestro works on both residential and commercial projects. No project is too
big or too small they say. Lots of stone, granite, marble, onyx, travertine, In stock or
special order...Deliver anywhere, They directly import stone tiles and slabs from over 16
countries. Granite, Marble, Limestone, Sandstone, Onyx, Slate, Maestro has full services
from designing, fabrication, to installation. Special orders welcome. Container direct at
deep discount is available if you have a large project.
Their warehouse is located in Skokie, IL, north of Chicago. The samples shown on their web
site are only some parts of what they normally stock. For prices and current availability,
please call. Unique selections of hand-blown glass sink, tempered glass sink, marble sink,
granite sink, onyx sink, travertine sink, and mother-of-pearl sink. One-of-a-kind.
Hand-chiseled stone sinks are available. Freestanding natural stone sinks. Stone Carpet,
Stone Art, Stone Rug, Mosaic Rug, ... "Hand cut", and "hand made".
Great for wall or floor applications; such as entry hallway, kitchen, living room wall
art, above fireplace, master bath floor, etc...
A special order and your own design are welcome. "Stone Carpets" are typically
installed in a salient area, such as hotel lobby, residential front entry or master
bath. The result is dramatic. Choose from Maestro's pre-designed patterns, or create your
own.
The "Stone Carpet" is mounted on a net backing -- for an easy installation.
Prices are determined by size, type of stone, and design complexity. Most items are for
special order. Lead time is 8-12 weeks for standard freight (by boat). Rush order
available by air freight -- They charge only actual costs of the freight. www.maestromosaics.com
Balian-Armenian Ceramics of Jerusalem--Unique
bathroom tiles, kitchen tiles, decorative ceramic tiles, ceramic tile murals, tile art and
tile designs from one of the oldest tile studios in the world from the original family
owned company.
. The Painted Tile Murals of Jerusalem are super. The website is easy to use and quick to
load. They have links to design idea photos of ceramic tile applications too. They have a
whole section on swimming pool tiles. The Balian Family of Jerusalem has been producing
exclusive hand painted ceramic tiles and pottery since 1922. This makes them one of the
oldest-if not the oldest- business in existence in Jerusalem. The studio is currently
being run by the Armenian family of the Balians, who's grandfather Neshan Balian came to
Jerusalem in 1917 from Kutahya, Turkey. The ceramic tiles and pottery of Balian Armenian
Ceramics have been exhibited all over the world in various museums and institutions. The
zenith being the solo exhibition at the Smithsonian Museum of Washington D.C. in 1992.
Original and authentic Balian Pottery is sold only at their factory and retail outlet on
14 Nablus Rd. East Jerusalem and now on their web site. www.armenianceramics.com
Dy Witt is a ceramic artist with over 20 years in ceramic glaze handling who does custom work. .She uses only the true ceramic process, which is the bonding of color to the clay body, as opposed to china painting which is a very low-fired paint that bonds only on the surface of the ware, and is by its nature less durable. China painting, done by others, is a far easier, less expensive and slightly less durable method of painting tile. Dy is happy to make custom ceramic tile murals, backsplashes, counter top tile, wall tile, shower tile and bath tub surround tile designs. At one time, ceramic tile was only for the wealthy. No more. Today, for the same price as you will pay for manufactured cast resin, imitation marble or other polymer, you can have a one-of-a-kind piece of fine art, made by an American artist who is willing to work with YOUR ideas and concepts. www.dyztilz.com
Alora's Handpainted Tile Murals, Specializing in wildlife, tile paintings that are original works of art. Her site has numerous examples of her nature and landscape themed hand painted tile scenes. There is also a nice tutorial page for those interested in making their own handpainted ceramic tile wall designs. www.aloratile.com
Tile Art Ltd. custom ceramic
hand painted
tiles by Paddy Dugan who, for over 28 years has enjoyed being in the
design business. Her education includes a BFA in Interior Design from the Maryland
Institute College of Art. Interior designers, builders and architects recommend using
custom hand painted tile for kitchens to their clients, especially those remodeling.
Artistic hand painted tiles can add charm and elegance to kitchens, baths, showers,
countertops and floors.
Painted sinks and custom murals instantly add elegance to any bath. Not only do hand
painted ceramic tiles on a backsplash compliment your kitchen cabinets, they can complete
your home improvement project by instantly giving any room a designer look. Paddy says,
"Creating a custom design for your home can come from a variety of idea's. It could
be a mural that is created from photo's from your trip to Tuscany or Jamaica that will
keep you reliving the wonderful memories of your time spent there every time you look at
it! " www.handpaintedtiles.com
Paul Lewing Custom Tile creates unique tile
murals for kitchens, bathrooms, fireplaces, signs, and all other tile applications. Paul
will depict any image in any style or color, and work with clients to guarantee their
satisfaction.
All murals are fired on, washable and durable. Paul charges $88 per square foot for custom
murals. Only those tiles which have design fired onto them are counted in this charge.
Paul will work from photographs, drawings, blueprints, or color samples to produce a
unique piece of permanent art for your walls. www.paullewingtile.com
SAVE up to 70% OFF on Ceramic Tile at FastFloors.com
A Note on Handpainted Tiles:
Mexican Handpainted Tiles: Talavera Poblana dates back to the 16th century
when Spanish ceramicists from Talavera de la Reina, Spain, introduced the ceramic craft to
artisans in Puebla, Mexico. Moorish, Spanish, and even sometimes Chinese influences are
combined with floral and animal elements to create a truly unique Mexican style. The
Talavera method dates back for centuries in Mexico. The artisans create
every piece entirely by hand, and firing it twice at high temperatures, resulting in a
durable tile with very bright color and intricate designs. Talavera Tiles are entirely
handcrafted, and inconsistencies in design, color, and size are absolutely
inherent—they are not considered flaws. It is the slight variance in size and color
by the very process of one artist painting one tile at a time that makes these an artistic
addition to any home. Enjoy the subtle variation in color that give these tiles character.
Native Trails - a distributer of colorful hand painted tiles. Native Trails handpainted Mexican Poblana ceramic tiles are represented in kitchen and bath showrooms nationwide. See the website gallery for great close-ups of the colorful Mexican tile designs. www.nativetrailskitchenandbath.com
Art on Tiles offers two lines with more than 500 designs. They have hand painted ceramic tiles and sinks that also include custom work and tiles decorated with ceramic decals. Lucia Fort’s Studio, Art on Tiles was founded in 1993, and has since established a nationwide reputation for supplying hand-painted ceramic tiles of the highest quality. Clients only pay for the tiles that contain artwork, not the filling tiles. Art on Tiles works with tiles that are sold in the open market, such as Florida, Daltile, Laufen, Incepa, Ceramic D’Imola, Ceramiche Ragno, etc. Tile backsplashes are a specialty, and if told what the budget is, they will suggest what options are available in that price range. For those with less than $200 in their budget, they suggest clients check out our catalog of tiles decorated with ceramic decals. Art on Tiles also creates Murals and Fireplace surrounds in tile. www.artontiles.com
Moroccan House of Tiles and Furnishings has a beautiful website offering lovely Moroccan mosaics, tiles, sidewalk pavers, floor tiles, mat finished floor tiles, borders, and hand painted ceramic tiles. The finished applications in rooms are very inspiring. Moroccan House of Tile is located in New York but all contact info is provided. www.mosaichse.com
Willi Dewin maker of Delft Tiles says "A single well selected tile can turn a whole wall into a picture." His slightly odd ball website offers hundreds and hundreds of handpainted Delft tiles in blue and white mostly. http://www.netcult.ch/museumdewin/tiles/index.cfm
Kulia Tile Design ....Really cool hand painted ceramic tiles with a tropical Hawaiian theme. All tiles are 6" x 6". They are felt backed and ready to hang. They can be used as a Trivet & of course, can be installed in a permanent installation. www.kuliatile.com
Tree Street Glass Tiles--Artist Karen Webb owns Tree Street Glass Tiles. She hand makes unique glass tiles. Her tiles are mostly used as accent pieces. She makes cool iridescent tiles, and some called 'sizzle' that have sparkely metallic bands. The series called 'Inlays' have unique look achieved by firing copper with the glass. Karen Webb also does custom work. www.treestreetglasstile.com
POTERIE creates maiolica handpainted tiles
from the Italian, Spanish and Portuguese tradition as well as moulded Moorish-style cuenca
tiles. Poterie reproduces the maiolica tiles of the Italian, Spanish and Portuguese
tradition. Poterie workshop was founded in 1981 in Genoa by the brothers Marcella and
Valerio Diotto .
They studied Art history and Architecture so decided to produce classic maiolica tiles
from Italian, Spanish and Portuguese tradition. All models come from traditional designs
and are produced in limited edition using only manual techniques. New designs are
constantly added to archives, totaling now more than 500 different models. The website
shows borders, ceramic tiles, ceramic tile murals, They make number plates in any size,
color and style to match any kind of building and give a personal touch to your house
www.poterie.it
Iris Ceramica of Italy is the parent company of a multinational, world leader manufacturer of ceramic floor and wall tiles for residential, commercial and industrial projects. With a range of 6 technologies and 50 collections comprising more than 3000 items, Iris Ceramica exports its ceramic products to over 100 countries, spreading the "made in Italy" prestigious name throughout the world. 8000 square metres of showroom celebrate the beauty and the variety of the Iris Ceramica collections, each one set in an environment which highlights its unique characteristics. You can take a virtual tour of the showroom online and use the downloadable program for deciding which tile to use on your project. The tiles appear to be mostly solid colors, some with textural markings, and the new metallic series. Website is somewhat lackluster. www.irisceramica.com
Emser Tile -Since its establishment in 1968,
Emser Tile has become the leading supplier of the world’s finest tile and natural
stone. Emser is a fashion leader in glazed ceramic tile, porcelain tile and natural stone
products. Emser offers the broad selection that enables homebuilders to achieve the styles
their customers envision. Many of Emser's materials are designed to coordinate with each
other in texture, color and style and come in a variety of sizes. They also offer a wide
range of coordinating and border listelloes. See the 'Online Showroom' for info on Glazed
Ceramic & Porcelain Tile, Countertop & Wall Tile, Through-Body Porcelain Tile,
Mosaic Products, Tumbled &, Ancient Stone, Travertine, Limestone, Marble, Granite, and
Slate. www.emser.com
Bettini Tile Service has Italian tile at
dsicount prices. This web-site has been built to show and to sell some of the best
expression of this style: floor and wall tile. They offer a big range of products like :
marble, granite, limestone, terracotta tiles, glass mosaic and ceramic floor for wall.
Marble, limestone and terracotta tiles are available in different finishes.
Bettini Tiles
provides a customer service through which they can solve all logistic problems and give
you the opportunity to import Italian tile products without any worries. Stone Pietre Tile
are glazed porcelain tiles which reproduce in a perfect way the natural stones with some
advantages which make them suitable for many projects like kitchens and bathrooms.
Pietre is slip resistant according to the Americans with Disabilities Act and can be used
with confidence in areas with water or grease such as kitchen. www.bettini.com
Siciliano Marble and Granite has been in this business for over 20 years. They offer retail sales of marbles, granites, travertines and onyx in slabs and tiles. Siciliano can handle the manufacturing of your kitchen or bathroom countertops as well as the installation. The website has limited information, I imagine that they actually have colors and stone that is not shown. Their print ads sat theyhave an extensive collection of marbles and granites of the highest quality in slabs and tiles at exceptional prices. Located in the Miami, FL area. www.sicilianomarble.com
Waterworks offers ceramic tile, glass tile, and mosaic tile. They have one of those artsy websites that can sometimed be a bit slow or difficult to use. They even use 'made-up' words to further confuse you--'architectronics'. Best bet is to click on the 'Site Directory' link on upper right. If you dig around, you will find standard ceramic tilein 70--that's right--70 colors as well as hand painted tile in the 'Archive' collection. Waterworks offers glass tile made in Murano, Venice. Their white glass tile is available in several off white shades. Waterworks has mosaic tile in mixed blends. Not too exciting, but I am sure they are nice. www.waterworks.com
Meredith Art Tile Collection --The original look of Victorian tile work is the inspiration for Iron Gate Tile. For 2007, Iron Gate Tile combines an inspiring, updated color palette with new additions of decorative/field tiles, and moldings. From a formal fireplace surround to the simple elegance of a subway tile backsplash, Iron Gate Tile creates a distinctive setting. Meredith Art Tile Victorian Collection
seems to offer mostly very light colors. They specialize in the Victorian
tile designs and Arts and Crafts designs which do have some bold colors. Meredith Collection designs and manufactures hand-crafted decorative art tile..
www.Meredith.com
Art Tiles:
ColorBakery--check
out Mindy Sommers' unique ceramic tiles with wild, colorful and sometimes
futuristic patterns and designs. An entire bathroom could be designed
around one of her tile murals or a ColorBakery tile border. She also
offers her designs on assorted home furnishings and even clothes ! www.ColorBakery.com
Lore Haus may be the world's only hand-sculpted glass tile. Each Lore Haus tile is individually hand crafted in Eugene, Oregon by one of their glass sculptors using both ancient and modern glass working techniques. Because of the handcrafted nature of LoreHaus tiles, no two are exactly alike – adding a unique artistic flair and depth to any project. Glass tiles are easy to clean, do not stain, and are even heat resistant to 400F. www.lorehaus.com .
Maestro Mosaics has an absolutely incredible array of glass tile. They are introducing new product line, SeaSide Glass. This glass mosaic looks great when combine with stone tile. The glass is iridescent. The colors may look differently in different viewing angles, or lighting environments. Maestro also has hand-cut glass mosaics with antique look. Irregular Edges. You can custom color to match Benjamin Moore paint color for an order above 2000 SqFt. Minimum order is 20 SqFt (a carton). They also have clear or frosted glass mosaic tile, with paint at the back to create color effect. 56 colors to choose from Applications include bathroom shower, kitchen backsplash, swimming pool, bars, Borders and liners to coordinate with your glass tile selection. Most items require special order. Also, really unusual metal and stone combination tile patterns. Stainless Steel & Slate border, Stainless Steel & Marble Border, Marble and Onyx fireplace surrounds., Design/consulting services available. , Specializing in complete kitchen, bathroom, and custom design layouts , for the entire home. www.mglasstile.com
Phoenician Arts offers mosaics composed of natural colorful marbles and stones. You can find any theme you desire. What if you didn’t? They collaborate with you to offer customized services for your design. Reliable and timely delivery is guaranteed. www.phoenicianarts.com
Inti from Brazil emphasizes unusual materials such as: coconut, wood, Brazilian stones, metal, glass and
ceramics in order to achieve an innovative and unique solution. Inti states that “The Difference is in the Details.”
I had some trouble with the website in Firefox, try IE instead. They offer
glass tile too. Hope you read Portuguese, I don't . www.intinet.com.br
Glass Tiles:
Marin Design Works--offer hand-manufactured glass tile in sizes 1/2" x 4" to 16" x 24" and custom shapes. Comes in 24 colors and 9 textures. Low-VOC coating and low carbon footprint. Phone 707-829-2995, or visit www.marindesignworks.com
Hirsch Glass--They say "Welcome to the Kingdom of
Decorative Architectural Glass". Huge array of glass mosaic tiles for
swimming pools. Also many other types of architectural glass. Seems that
this U.S. based glass company now has an alliance with a plant in China
that cuts the glass into standard tile sizes so they offer a zillion
different colors and sizes of glass tiles.The glass tiles can be used in many different applications. These colorful glass tiles can be
used on shower walls, tub surroundings, vanity tops in bathrooms, and other spa and water features. You can also modernize a kitchen with a glass mosaic tile backsplash or countertop. Larger size stained glass tiles or panels can be utilized to decorate commercial spaces such as room dividers, railings, moldings, doors, and architectural details at restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, spas, casinos, etc.
Hirsch Glass has a cool online mosaic color mix tool. Fun to play with,
try Internet Explorer. .
www.hirschglasscorp.com
Ceramic Tiles of Italy--Ceramic Tiles of Italy
The trademark for the Italian ceramic industry worldwide --For more than thirty years, the
Ceramic Tiles of Italy label has been promoting the image and content of the Italian
ceramic industry in foreign markets. It stands for tradition, quality, innovation and
creativity. As the institutional image of the Italian ceramic industry, the label
safeguards the reputation and promotes awareness of Assopiastrelle member companies and
their products through a range of activities, including participation in trade shows,
promotional and advertising campaigns and institutional events, initiatives that aim to
support the activities of the individual companies in international markets. See their
website for lots of info on events and exhibitions. The ceramic tile website also includes
lots of wonderful photos of tile applications and mosaics but is somewhat slow
loading (Italy is a long way for data to transfer to the U.S.) and the English wording is
amusing. www.italiatiles.com
Pebble Tiles
Miami Beach Pebbles, Inc. produces pebble tiles at their wholly owned facilities in Lima, Peru. All tiles are hand-made and the pebbles are adhered to a fiberglass mesh backing, rather than the less expensive nylon backing, to prevent distortion and for better adhesion during the installation process.
They produce flat pebble tile, on-edge tile and custom design tiles – please click on above photos to view colors and designs.
Miami Beach Pebbles welcomes your designs and they have the capabilities to produce various sizes and shapes of tiles.
www.beachpebbles.com
Somerset Brick & Tile Museum--UK
The last surviving kiln at the former Barham Brother's yard at East Quay is a poignant
reminder of the brick and tile industry which was so important in the county. The kiln,
which has been repaired by Somerset County Council with the help of Sedgemoor District
Council, is the heart of the future Somerset Brick and Tile Museum. The new museum
building and kiln is open to the public. Full access for people with disabilities. Check
the website for current days and hours. http://www.somerset.gov.uk/museums/musweb7.htm
The DIY Network has online info and tips that includes little movie tutorials. Do a search for 'tiling techniques' on their site. They include topics like tile removal, tile repair, painting tiles, cutting tiles, tiling around entryways and fireplaces. www.diynet.com
About Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is the ultimate floor product, combining beauty with durability…
It will not stain, mildew, burn or fade.
It is not affected by Moisture
It is "allergy-free" - soil, fumes, smoke and germs will not penetrate it.
It is the easiest of all finishes to clean - never needs buffing, waxing or finishing.
Ceramic tile has the lowest long-term cost of any alternative product. It may seem more
expensive initially, but will is a good deal in the big picture.
Decorating with Tile
One of ceramic tile's best features is its adaptability. It can play a major roll in a
design scheme, as the focal point of a room. The broad range of sizes, shapes, colors and
textures enables one to incorporate ceramic tile into almost any application.
From the understated to the luxurious, the traditional to the contemporary, there is a
ceramic tile to complement any style.
Selecting a Tile
Ceramic Tile offers you a vast selection of products, with a wide variety of performance
characteristics to suit any application imaginable. The key is selecting the right tile
for the job. Every tile manufactured is given a wear rating. These ratings vary according
to the amount of traffic the tile will receive, and directly correlate to how well the
tile performs. Tiles with a lower class rating are more suited for light traffic areas.
Tiles with a high wear rating are for areas with heavier traffic. Below is an example of
basic wear ratings:
....... Class 1........ Usually wall tile only
........Class 2........ Suitable for light residential floors
........Class 3 ........Appropriate for all residential and light commercial installations
........Class 4 ........All residential and commercial applications
Characteristics of Tile
Texture and color are also important characteristics to consider when selecting ceramic
tile.
TEXTURE
The two basic types of texture used in making ceramic tiles are tactile and visual.
Tactile textures can be felt, and convey the look of the natural product. Visual textures
actually have a flat, smooth surface, but give the impression of texture through color and
shade variation.
COLOR
Probably the most powerful of the design elements is color. From calm to bold, and cool to
warm, ceramic tile offers an abundance of choices. One facet of color, called shade
variation, deals with one of the most popular looks today - stone tiles. It is also the
most dramatic. Today's stone products are designed with shade variation to provide a more
natural look. One piece will not be indicative of what an entire floor will look like.
Care should be taken to mix pieces from different boxes to incorporate any shading
differences.
Finishing the Job
No job is complete until the grout has been selected. Grout selection will affect the
appearance and performance of your final installation. It is wise to select a grout that
fits your particular design scheme or level of use. Whether you are matching,
coordinating, or contrasting the grout color, the visual results can be limitless. Grout
is usually what gets stained, not tile, so if you are using it in a high traffic area,
choose a dark color grout.
Caring for Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile's beauty and durability have made it one of the most popular interior
finishes today. There are just a few simple steps to maintaining the rich look of a
ceramic tile surface:
SEALING
For ease of installation as well as on-going clean-up, unglazed tile and grout joints
should be sealed. Using a sealer protects against stains.
Glazed tiles do not require the use of sealers. Since the glaze on these tiles is made of
glass-like materials, they do not take on stains and are already easy to clean.
Grout needs sealing.
CLEANING CERAMIC TILE
Weekly cleaning of ceramic tile is as simple as vacuuming up loose dirt, followed by
mopping with warm water and neutral cleaner. (A neutral cleaner does not contain any acids
or bleaches). Also avoid soap-based cleaners, which can leave a film behind, making your
tile more difficult to clean later.
The proper tile, installed correctly, will last a lifetime.
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