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Can ceramic tile be installed on (a) wood or (b)vinyl tile or linoleum?
(a) Yes, however the only acceptable wood subfloor is exterior grade plywood. Other types of wood flooring such as hardwood, parquet or particle board are not acceptable.`(b) Yes, tile can be installed on vinyl or linoleum but they must be well bonded and properly prepared. Ceramic tile should never be installed on cushioned vinyl.

What is the difference between ceramic tile and porcelain tile?
Porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile. They are both fired above red heat. The major differences are: ``a. Porcelain tile is harder and denser than other types of ceramic tile.``b. Porcelain tile is frost proof. It is impervious, with water absorption rates of less than 0.5%.``

Are there any special requirements for installing porcelain tile?
Yes, because porcelain bodied tiles are so hard and dense, a latex portland cement mortar is the minimum bonding material to be used.

Why would I want to buy a "frost resistant" tile?
If the tile is going to be installed in an exterior application or one subject to exposure to freezing temperatures it should have an absorption factor of 3% or less. Other tiles that have an absorption factor greater than 3% may fail due to the freeze-thaw cycles it would be subjected to.

Is ceramic tile slippery?
Any ceramic tile can be slippery if it becomes contaminated with soil, oil, grease, water or other foreign substances. Unglazed tile or tiles that have an abrasive finish or textured surface are less slippery than bright glazed tile or tiles with a very smooth surface. "Slippery" is defined by the term coefficient of friction. Generally slip-resistant tiles have a COF greater than .60 wet.

What is meant by the wear rating?
The wear rating is associated with the PEI number. It is a measurement of the wearability of the glazed finish on the tile.``PEI 1 - not suitable for floor surfaces.``PEI 2 - suitable for residential bathroom slipper traffic.``PEI 3 - suitable for general residential and light commercial floors.``PEI 4 - suitable for all residential and medium duty commercial floors.``PEI 5 - suitable for heavy traffic in commercial areas.``

Does ceramic tile need to be sealed or waxed?
Glazed ceramic tile or porcelain tile does not require sealers or waxes. Unglazed tile with higher absorption rates - above 3% - may be sealed or finished if so desired.

Is ceramic tile easy to clean and maintain?
Yes, but it does need to be maintained. It is not maintenance free. General day-to-day cleaning requires only sweeping or vacuuming to remove loose soil or debris, then damp mopping with clean, warm water. If aggressive cleaning due to heavy contamination is required, it can be accomplished using a mild household cleaner or a commercial cleaner, scrubbing with a nylon pad or brush, followed by a thorough rinse and removal of the cleaning solution.