Quarry tile is a hard, impervious paving tile made from the ground minerals formed and fired in much the same way as is used to make brick. Unlike clay terracotta, quarry tiles are not porous and will resist water; and unlike ceramic tile and porcelain, quarry tile does not have a surface glaze layer.
What is quarry tile used for?
Uses. Quarry tile is extensively used for floors where a very durable material is required. It can be used either indoors or outdoors, although freeze-resistant grades of tile should be used outdoors in climates where freeze-thaw action occurs.
How do you identify quarry tiles?
Colors are created from the choice of natural raw materials put into the “mix.” Tiles with a base of shale generally have a red or brown color. Tiles with a base of clay typically have a gray or beige color. Some Metropolitan Ceramics quarry tile is produced with a shade variation from tile to tile.
Is quarry tile ceramic or porcelain?
Quarry tile is a hard, extremely durable ceramic tile, similar to porcelain tile in its hardness but made differently than porcelain tile or other ceramic tiles. Ceramic quarry tile is made of a combination of clay, shale and other natural ingredients.
What is the difference between quarry tile and ceramic tile?
ANSWER - Porcelain and quarry tile are part of the family of ceramic tiles, which are clay based materials. Quarry tile is an extruded type of ceramic tile that is less dense and more absorbing than porcelain tile, but it is still a commercially rated tile for floors.
Where do you put quarry tiles?
Install quarry tile in entryways, kitchens or outdoor spaces, anywhere a tough, durable surface is needed. While quarry tile is durable, its unglazed surface is porous and susceptible to stains and moisture, so be sure to seal it after installation.
Is quarry tile durable?
Quarry tile is a durable and slip-resistant flooring material perfect for high-impact, high-traffic areas. Although not as aesthetically versatile as its terra cotta or ceramic counterparts, quarry tile is highly durable and comes in at a much lower price.
What type of tile is quarry?
Quarry tile is a hard, impervious paving tile made from the ground minerals formed and fired in much the same way as is used to make brick. They are typically harder than ordinary clay bricks, due to the minerals used and the high firing temperatures.
What is the difference between quarry tiles and terracotta?
The big difference between quarry tiles and terracotta is that quarry tiles are made from a brick-like, coarse material whereas terracotta is made from potters' clay which is refined and smoother. If you break a quarry tile you'll see granules of stone. Terracotta absorbs heat so can actually be quite warm underfoot.
Why are they called quarry tiles?
Not mined from a quarry as might be suggested by the name, quarry tiles are manufactured. Quarry tile production has its “roots” in the brick-making industry and uses raw material very similar to that used in brick products. “Natural” and “durable” are the words best used to describe quarry tiles.