In home decoration or various construction projects, tiles and ceramics are undoubtedly among the “leading roles”. They quietly decorate our living spaces with their appearance and practicality. Today, let's have a good chat about the secrets behind these tiles and ceramics.

I. Can't Tell Tiles and Ceramics Apart?

Many people may think that tiles and ceramics are pretty much the same at first hearing, but in fact, there are significant differences. In terms of raw materials, ceramics generally use natural minerals such as clay, and their texture is relatively delicate and smooth; while for tiles, in addition to clay, quartz sand and other materials are often added to make them more firm and wear-resistant. In terms of manufacturing processes, ceramics are mostly formed by hand or with simple molds, emphasizing artistic charm. For example, those exquisite ceramic vases each carry the unique marks of the craftsmen; tiles, on the other hand, are produced in large quantities with the help of modern high-pressure machinery, boasting extremely high efficiency and providing guarantee for large-scale renovations. In terms of uses, ceramics focus on decorative ornaments, tableware, etc., adding color to life; tiles are dedicated to paving floors and walls, creating a solid “coat” for the space.

II. Unveiling Tiles: Versatile and Powerful Functions

1.Anti-slip Performance: In places like bathrooms and kitchens where water stains are likely to appear, if the tiles are not anti-slip, it would be like an “ice rink”. Nowadays, there are many anti-slip tiles on the market. Their surfaces are designed with special textures to increase friction. Even when the floor is wet, people can walk steadily, safeguarding the safety of family members.

2.Wear Resistance: In high-traffic areas such as living rooms and corridors, tiles are “trampled” on every day. If they are not wear-resistant, they will soon be full of scratches and lose their luster. High-quality tiles can withstand the test of time and still look as good as new after many years. The secret behind this lies in their high-density body and hard glaze.

3.Stain Resistance: Grease in the kitchen and stains in the living room would be a nightmare to clean if they seeped into the tiles. Fortunately, there are stain-resistant tiles. The dense glaze layer on their surface is like a protective film, keeping stains “at bay”. With a gentle wipe, they will be clean and shiny again.

III. The Charm of Ceramics: The Integration of Art and Culture

Ceramics carry a thousand-year history and cultural heritage. From ancient blue and white porcelain to colorful modern ceramic artworks, each one is an artistic treasure. In interior decoration, an exquisite ceramic ornament can instantly enhance the style of the space. Placing a blue and white porcelain vase in a Chinese-style setting creates an ancient charm; pairing a gorgeous ceramic sculpture with European-style decoration shows luxury. Moreover, the unique texture of ceramics feels warm to the touch, injecting warmth into the cold modern home.

IV. Tips for Purchasing Without Making Mistakes

1.Check the Appearance: When choosing tiles, select those with uniform color, no flaws, and regular size; for ceramic ornaments, pay attention to whether the patterns are exquisite and the lines are smooth. Quality can be seen in the details.

2.Feel the Texture: Run your hand over the surface of the tile to feel its smoothness and flatness; handle the ceramic to experience its delicate and smooth feeling. If it feels rough, it is likely of poor craftsmanship.

3.Check the Certification: Regular products all have quality inspection certifications. Don't forget to check them when making a purchase to ensure the quality.

Although tiles and ceramics may seem insignificant, they truly affect the quality of our lives. Understanding their characteristics and choosing and using them correctly can make our homes cozier and our spaces more outstanding, opening a new chapter in a beautiful life. Next time when you decorate, will you feel more confident?