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Glazed Ceramic Tile vs Unglazed Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tiles come to two basic constructions, glazed and unglazed. The body of ceramic tile (called: bisque) may be coated with a glaze or without depending on it’s intended purpose.

The glaze coating is comprised of liquid colored glass and is applied and baked to the surface of the bisque under very high temperatures. The liquid glass coating is what creates the texture, design and color of a glazed tile and protects the body of the tile from staining. The colors in the glaze come from various minerals, such as zinc, mercury, copper, gold, silver, etc.

Glazing allows ceramic tile to be offered in unlimited colors and designs. If the glazed surface is scratched or damaged you cannot repair the tile, just replace it. Glazed ceramic tile are generallt used in residential areas only, such as bathrooms, kitchens, walls and countertops. Some of the features of glazed ceramic tile are:

• Stain Resistant
• Scratch Resistant
• Fire Resistant
• Fade resistance to direct sunlight
• Slip Resistant
• Easy to Clean

Unglazed tile have no glazing on the surface. The color of the bisque goes all the way through the tile from top to bottom. The through color means the tile won't show wear form scratches like glazed tile. Tiles lies quarry tile are unglazed and used in both commercial and residential areas. Depending on the type of unglazed tile you may need a special sealer.

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