Designing with Tile Today

1. Designing with Tile Today

1.1 Welcome

Notes:

Welcome to the course, Designing with Tile Today - From Ancient History to
Modern Innovations, presented by Hanley Wood in conjunction with Floor &
Decor Commercial.
1.2 AIA CES Provider Statement

Notes:

Hanley Wood is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education

under Provider Number K029. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply
with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or
concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES
(cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).

This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional
education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed
to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or
any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material
or product.

AIA continuing education credit for this learning program have been reviewed
and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program
to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units
earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA
members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA
members are available upon request.
1.3 IDCEC Best Practices

Notes:

This CEU is registered with the Interior Design Continuing Education Council
(IDCEC) for continuing education credits. This credit will be accepted by the
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), International Interior Designers
Association (IIDA) and Interior Designers of Canada (IDC).

The content included is not deemed or construed to be an approval or

endorsement by IDCEC of any material or construction or any method or manner
of handling, using, distributing or dealing in any material or product. Questions
related to specific materials, methods and services should be directed to the
instructor or provider of this CEU.

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1.4 Copyright Materials

Notes:

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1.5 Course Description

Notes:

Tile has been manufactured and used in the construction environment for
thousands of years, with advancements slowly evolving through the ages. We
are now in an era of great tile innovation, with firing, printing, and material
technology expanding for more beautiful and statement-worthy product offerings.
This course will explore the history of tile, then introduce the different types of
natural stone and man-made tile, including specialty tiles and unique formats that
are changing the tile market as we speak. We will discuss their performance
benefits, how they are manufactured, and how to design with tile to create
stunning, hard-wearing installations.
1.6 Learning Objectives

Notes:

By the end of this course, the learner will be able to:

1.Understand the history of tile and how it has impacted design throughout the
ages.
2.Explore types of natural stone tile - including limestone, granite, marble, and
slate - and how to design with each material.
3.Identify types of man-made tile, including ceramic, porcelain, and specialty
materials.
4.Describe the various tile formats available, including subway, mosaic, and large
format, as well as new innovations that are stretching the limits of tile design.
1.7 Learning Objective #1

Notes:

In the first section of the course, the content will help you understand the history
of tile and how it has impacted design throughout the ages.
1.8 History of Tile

Notes:

Tiles are thin slabs of stone, clay, glass, cement, or metal, among other materials,
used to finish floors, walls, and ceilings. They are used on both the interior and
exterior of buildings, and can be monochromatic or highly detailed, with a wide
variety of textures, colors, and patterns. While there have been advances in tile
technology, it is an ancient building product that’s been manufactured for several
thousand years for multiple uses.
1.9 Ancient Egyptians

Notes:

Ancient versions of tile date from circa 4,700 B.C. Egypt. Egyptians created large
stone tiles of granite, travertine, and limestone, which are said to have covered
the pyramids. Glass tiles were also an early innovation during this time period.
The first recorded use of glass was in Mesopotamia, or present-day Iraq, around
2,500 B.C.

Source:
https://www.thevictorianemporium.com/publications/history/article/history_of_tiles
Source: https://artsaics.com/history-of-tiles/
1.10 Roman Empire and the Middle Ages

Notes:

Around 575 B.C., the Persians and Babylonians constructed brick tiles from
molds, allowing them to use repetitive motifs, and glazed them in brilliant colors.
The earliest examples of clay tilemaking as we know it today originated in the
Holy Lands, in about the fourth century B.C. Clays are natural materials that can
be found globally, with regional differences in varying workability, color, texture,
density, and porosity depending on where it’s sourced. The color and hardness
of the final tile are also affected by the firing temperature. The earliest clay tile
was made of terracotta, for use in cooking vessels and sculpture; it’s now used to
line the roofs of residences and other buildings in Mediterranean countries.

The glazing techniques of the Persians’ and Babylonians’ clay tilemaking inspired
the Greeks and Romans to create glazed ceramic tiles, which were more durable
than the pebble mosaics they’d been using. They also used travertine throughout
the Colosseum, which survives today. As the Romans occupied Europe, they
brought tiling with them.

Other cultures played important roles in the advancement of tile technology. “In
the 8th and 9th centuries [A.D.], the Uighur people of northwest China developed
the basis for 13th-century Turkish and Middle Eastern tiles, notable for geometric
symmetry and botanical motifs.” During the Ottoman Empire, these hand-painted
Iznik tiles rose in prominence. “In the middle of the 16th century the iconic tulips,
roses, pomegranates, and hyacinths began to appear in the motifs alongside the
cobalt blue and turquoise patterns. During this time production shifted to
architectural tiles because of building projects commissioned by Süleyman I
(1520-1566), whose reign represented the empire’s peak. A myriad of examples,
from tombs to mosques, were decorated with Iznik tiles.”

Source: https://www.traditionalbuilding.com/product-report/ceramic-tile-history
Source: https://artsaics.com/history-of-tiles/
Source: https://theculturetrip.com/europe/turkey/articles/the-history-of-iznik-tiles-
in-turkey-in-1-minute/
1.11 Modern History

Notes:

“These ‘encaustic’ or inlaid tiles were made from the 12th to the 16th centuries.
This skill disappeared with the dissolution of the monasteries and was not
revived until the Victorian era of the 19th century.” Cistern monks developed
encaustic tile, a pressed tile featuring multiple colors, made from the 12th to the
16th centuries. The 17th century saw the emergence of encaustic tiles in Turkey
and the production of the iconic blue and white Delft tile in Holland. The tile
industry rose into popularity in the 18th century, as English suppliers began
importing and imitating Holland’s hand-painted glazed tiles.

Herbert Minton revived encaustic tile making in 19th century England and
developed the process of dust-pressing, which was later replaced by machine
pressing, allowing for mass production.

Solid color tiles were produced in Central and South America in the 16th century,
but weren’t prevalent in the United States, which generated its own industry in
1870. In the 1890s, white and colored ceramic tiles were produced, followed by
variegated glazed tiles. Ready-mix glazes emerged in the 1900s, making
consistently colored tiles possible. The invention of the tunnel kiln around 1910
greatly increased the automation of tile manufacturing.

Floor tiles hit a peak in the Victorian era as a surface that could be cleaned and
sanitized. Tiles were used in churches, shops, and houses for their functional
properties and decorative effect.

Let’s identify the different types of natural stone tiles and man-made tiles, then
explore some of the recent innovations in tile design.

Source:
https://www.thevictorianemporium.com/publications/history/article/history_of_tiles
Source: https://www.traditionalbuilding.com/product-report/ceramic-tile-history
1.13 Learning Objective #2

Notes:

In the next section of the course, we will explore types of natural stone tile -
including limestone, granite, marble, and slate - and how to design with each
material.
1.14 Introduction to Natural Stone

Notes:

Natural stone is formed through years of subterranean heat and pressure,

providing great strength and resistance to fire, scratches, and stains. Natural
stone is mined from quarries around the world in blocks of stone that are cut into
smaller units. Natural stone tile retains its timeless beauty for a lifetime, and
includes travertine, limestone, granite, marble, and slate. Each natural stone tile
is different; even if sourced from the same quarry, they will carry the natural
characteristics of specific mineral deposits such as veining, which adds beauty
and one-of-a-kind detail. If a standard look is desired, uniformly manufactured
ceramic and porcelain tile may be a better option. Maintenance is important to
keep natural stone pristine, as its porosity varies.
1.15 Designing with Natural Stone

Notes:

Stone tiles are versatile, with many options from traditional to contemporary.
They can be used indoors or out, and their durability makes them perfect for high
traffic areas. Natural stone comes in a variety of sizes, colors, and materials, with
collections typically including formats such as mosaic, subway, 12" x 12", 12" x
24", and even extra-large slabs. In a single natural stone collection, all the pieces
are sourced from the same stone quarry, allowing them to complement one
another. But incorporating different shapes and sizes from the same tile family
can carry an elevated look through other areas in a room and help these blend
and coordinate with each other.
1.16 Travertine and Limestone

Notes:

Sedimentary stones such as travertine and limestone are formed by mineral

deposits (such as the shells of aquatic animals) on the floor of oceans, lakes, or
riverbeds that bond together through intense heat and pressure. This compaction
forms calcium carbonate. Travertine is softer than limestone because it has not
been subjected to the heat and pressure necessary to convert it to limestone.
This makes a drastic difference in how each stone performs.
1.17 Designing with Travertine and Limestone

Notes:

Travertine has been used in construction for thousands of years, prized for its
darker palette of colors in shades ranging from warm brown to silver gray to
black. It comes in assorted mosaics, shapes, and finishes. Limestone is ideal for
high traffic areas, while the softer travertine product is better suited to
backsplashes and walls unless filled with resin and polished to increase durability.
Resin must be resealed every three to four months to avoid issues.

Limestone is lighter, with colors such as white and champagne, and is available
in multiple finishes such as polished, honed, brushed, tumbled, and chiseled. It
can be used on floors, showers, pools, and wall applications and is slip-resistant.

Source: https://artsaics.com/travertine-vs-limestone-tile/
1.18 Granite

Notes:

Relied on for its beauty, strength, and quality for centuries, granite’s popularity
has grown in the last two decades. Granite is a tough igneous rock formed from
the slow crystallization of mineral liquids and gases penetrating volcanic magma
before it cools and solidifies below the Earth’s surface. It’s highly resistant to
damage and signs of wear because it contains the minerals quartz, mica, and
feldspar. Dispersed throughout the stone, they lend a sparkling, crystalline
appearance under natural and artificial light. Quartz, the primary ingredient, adds
to granite’s visual depth with a variety of patterns and colors ranging from warm,
light neutrals such as pink and cream, to dark green, gray, black, brown, and tan.
1.19 Designing with Granite

Notes:

Resistant to stains, moisture, heat, scratching, and acid, granite tiles are hardy
enough to stand up to exterior usage, lending depth to floors and walls in any
room. Polished granite tiles are an elegant and practical choice for fireplaces,
basements, hallways, foyers, and kitchen and bathroom floors or backsplashes.
With proper care, the polished surface will remain intact for the life of the tile.
Granite can also be honed, flamed, and leathered. Every granite tile will be
unique and their natural, neutral hues will fit virtually any color scheme.
1.20 Marble

Notes:

Used to make a statement from the Taj Mahal to Versailles, marble has a long
rich history. Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized carbonate
minerals, most commonly calcite or dolomite. It is a highly sought-after stone that
exists in almost every color due to the variability of these component minerals.

Carrara is a popular marble variety for floor tiles and on countertops, named for
the Italian city that produces it. It’s aesthetically pleasing in white or grayish-blue
tones. The stone is slightly translucent, giving marble a depth that you can’t get
with man-made tile. It was traditionally used in European sculptures and
structures. It is favored for its veining, giving the added benefit of camouflaging
any wear and tear that the tiles might sustain.
1.21 Designing with Marble

Notes:

The stone is available in multiple finishes such as polished, satin, brushed, and
tumbled, and can be used in a variety of designs. Marble tile is ideal for areas
with a lot of foot traffic because it is extremely durable and can withstand
constant use. Marble floors that have been found in ancient ruins show its ability
to withstand the test of time.

Marble doesn’t hold in allergens and is resistant to fungus and mold, so it won’t
contribute to respiratory problems like carpeting can. Marble is as easy to clean
and can help keep a home cooler in the warmer months of the year.

Marble tile is used in bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms with many
styles to choose from, including Italian Bianco Carrara, Turkish Cappuccino, and
Crema Marfil from Spain.
1.22 Slate and Quartzite

Notes:

Like marble, slate and quartzite are metamorphic stones that have changed
through heat, pressure, and mineral deposits into another type of stone. But their
qualities are very different from marble. Slate and quartzite are created from
algae and plant matter compressed with sediment over millions of years and can
vary widely in color and texture.

Slate tile is typically used for flooring for its durability, which compares favorably
with other options such as wood and laminate. Slate tiles work well because of
their slip-resistance and ability to withstand dampness. Slate tile is stain- and fire-
resistant and requires little maintenance.

The highest quality slate is mined from underground and can be more expensive
than slate that is closer to the surface.
1.23 Designing with Slate

Notes:

Slate and quartzite make beautiful natural stone tiles with color variations that
give each piece a distinctive look. They are available in a range of earth tone
colors from black to copper to rust to blue. Slate comes gauged or ungauged;
gauged slate has been cut so that all pieces are the same thickness, while
ungauged slate has varied thicknesses.
1.24 Pebble and Stone

Notes:

Pebble and stone tiles are typically sold as a mosaic with smaller tile made from
natural stone. The stone used to make these tiles is sourced from unused cuts
and waste items created during the process of making larger tile sizes, creating a
unique cobbled look.
1.25 Designing with Pebble/Stone Mosaics

Notes:

Pebble tile and stone pebble tile are beautiful ways to bring the look of the
outdoors in. Authentic stones can help create a soothing, rustic feel in spaces
from shower tile and tub surrounds to framed accents and entire accent walls. A
pebble floor bathroom can have raised or flat pebble tile and can be polished or
rough, light or dark, and comes in a variety of sizes. Pebble tile can be matched
to existing décor or used as a contrast piece. The tile is easy to maintain and with
proper care will last for years.
1.27 Learning Objective #3

Notes:

In the next section of the course, the content will help you identify types of man-
made tile, including ceramic, porcelain, and specialty materials.
1.28 Types of Man-Made Tile

Notes:

Man-made tile comes in a variety of colors, sizes, shapes, textures, and finishes
to achieve any desired look and feel. While both natural stone and man-made tile
are extremely durable and water-resistant, some man-made options like ceramic
and porcelain tile are an affordable, easy-to-clean alternative to stone. They can
be printed to closely resemble natural stone, wood, concrete, or a myriad of other
patterns.
1.29 Ceramic

Notes:

Natural clay comprises about half of a tile’s makeup, with granular materials such
as rock, feldspar, and grog mixed in. These ingredients are combined with water
to create the tile body, or bisque, which is then formed by compacting in a 5,000
psi dry press or extruded through a die and then wire cut. These ceramic bisques
are dried at a low temperature to remove all moisture. Then they are primed and
decorative glazes are applied using glazing drums, disc sprayers, or inkjet
printers, a technology we will discuss in a bit.

The tiles are then fired in a kiln to achieve their hardness and final finish color.
For a semi-gloss or gloss finish, the tiles pass through one or more polishing
brushes, respectively. Only through-body tiles, in which the finish color is
embedded in the tile body during the mixing process, are polished. The tiles are
then dried again to remove any remaining moisture. The face of ceramic tile is
non-porous, while the reverse side is rough, and often features a pressed pattern
to help with adhesion. A modified thinset is recommended to give this tile both a
mechanical and chemical bond to the substrate.

Source: https://www.architectmagazine.com/technology/products/how-its-made-
ceramic-tile_o
1.30 Designing with Ceramic Tile

Notes:

Ceramic tiles are recommended for interior applications only. It’s lightweight and
easy to cut and is often used for wall tile in bathrooms and utility spaces.
Available finishes are matte, gloss, polished, and textured, which are also anti-
slip.

Ceramic tile can be used anywhere in the home, but it’s perfect for mudrooms
and finished basements because it can withstand any exposure to moisture that
may occur.

Durability and strength are two characteristics that make ceramic tile flooring a
perfect choice for homes. Its adaptability and extreme resilience also make it one
of the most convenient options available. The life of ceramic flooring is longer
than carpeting and won’t singe or stain. When exposed to light, ceramic flooring
is resistant to color change and it withstands high levels of foot traffic. It’s easy to
maintain and ideal for households with pets or people who suffer from allergies.
1.31 Porcelain

Notes:

Porcelain is like ceramic in that it’s also fired in a kiln, but the key difference is its
rate of water absorption. The clay used to make porcelain is denser and is baked
at a much higher temperature, resulting in a tile that is less porous and more
weather-resistant.
1.32 Designing with Porcelain Tile

Notes:

Because it absorbs less water and is more hard wearing, porcelain can be used
for a variety of outdoor and indoor projects and in high foot traffic areas with very
high moisture levels.23 The downside of porcelain is that it is more expensive,
can be difficult to cut, and is only available in very simple designs. Designs can
resemble stone, wood, or concrete and are available either glazed or unglazed.
Unglazed tiles last longer and are more resistant to chipping.

Source: https://www.britishceramictile.com/how-to-tile/ceramic-vs-porcelain-tiles
Source: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/porcelain-vs-ceramic-tile/
1.33 Inkjet Technology

Notes:

Inkjet technology can give ceramic or porcelain tile the look of wood or stone
flooring, replicating any type of hardwood, including distressed, contemporary, or
more traditional. The look of real wood is copied onto tile in high definition but
with easier maintenance, greater durability, and less cost than actual wood. The
same can be said for stone-look tile, which imitates different varieties of natural
stone.

This advanced technology brings detail, contrast, and variation in design that is
applied edge-to-edge to fully cover each tile. The printer takes a photo of wood,
stone, concrete, etc. and imprints an identical design on smooth, rough, and
even highly textured surfaces. The tiles are then fired at high temperatures,
which strengthens them and allows a glaze to seal the image. The realistic
appearance that inkjet offers is unmatched by earlier printing techniques such as
screen printing and roto-color. Inkjet technology can allow up to thirty 12" x 12"
tiles to be imprinted before the design must be repeated, and allows
manufacturers to create unique looks such as metallic layers within a vein-cut tile.

Besides inkjet technology, there are a few other processes that are still in use for
tile printing. They include dye sublimation, laser etching, and diamond etching.

Source: FESPA Staff. (2015, February 24). “Inkjet Displaces Screen for Ceramic
Tiles.” FESPA. Retrieved from https://www.fespa.com/news/features/inkjet-
displaces-screen-for-ceramic-tiles.html
1.34 Glass

Notes:

Glass tiles have rich color and a glossy finish with light reflecting properties that
add dimension and elegance to any room. Some designs are printed or painted
on the back; in others, color is integral to the glass. They can also be
manufactured with a texture behind the glass to add interest. Available in a
variety of styles, including iridescent, translucent, and frosted, options range from
jewel-toned mosaic tile to a sea glass backsplash or mirrored subway tiles. Tiles
come in sheets, or as linear glass tile or glass brick tile.
1.35 Designing with Glass Tile

Notes:

Glass tile withstands moisture and splatters, making it the perfect choice for
bathrooms and kitchen walls, including backsplashes. Backsplash glass tile
comes in a variety of patterns, colors, and sizes and can become the crown jewel
of the kitchen.

For bathrooms, mosaic sheets offer a way to easily upgrade a shower, floor, or
tub surround. Glass tile is easy to clean and maintain, and can be used on just
about any surface. It can give extra depth and dimension to the room with its light
reflecting properties and elegance. Glass tiles can be mixed and matched to
create a unique and memorable look. Their durability and ease of maintenance
ensure that they will look great for years to come.
1.36 Specialty Materials

Notes:

Ceramic, porcelain, and glass are not the only man-made tile materials available
on the market today. There is a renewed interest in beautiful encaustic tiles, as
well as tiles made from metal and reclaimed wood. These specialty tiles can be
used for an all-over look, or can provide a burst of expression when used in
smaller tile fields.
1.37 Encaustic Tile

Notes:

Encaustic tiles are clay bodies that have a pattern pressed into the top of the tile.
They are hand-crafted using a blend of cement, sand, pigment, and other mineral
powders. The tile patterns are created from metal and placed in a frame, then the
hand-blended cement mixture (a very thin, colored liquid clay - aka slip) is poured
into the framed design. A rougher cement is then poured over the thin face and
pressed into the mold to create the final tile. This results in unique natural
variations in color and tone. Encaustic tiles must be cared for and installed
differently from ceramic or porcelain tiles. They are highly absorbent and must be
sealed with a penetrating sealer, both before applying grout and again after the
grout has dried. You cannot use a black or other dark-colored grout because it
may stain the tile.
1.38 Decorative Metallic Tile

Notes:

Decorative metallic tile makes a bold statement and is a sleek, modern, and
elegant addition to any space. The reflective quality of metallic tiles and mosaics
multiplies the light in a room with a unique shimmer. They come in larger tiles or
as metallic mosaic tile sheets that are easy to install. Colors range from the cool
silvers and grays of stainless steel to warm bronzes, coppers, and golds.
Patterns include penny round and subway. There are also metallic ceramic tiles
that mix both metal and ceramic to create a truly unique look.

Metallic tile is budget-friendly and can be installed in just a few hours. And, like
other tiles, decorative metallic tile is moisture-resistant and easy to clean and
maintain.
1.39 Reclaimed Wood

Notes:

Incorporating decorative wood tiles into a design is an easy way to add character
and warmth to any room. The classic, natural look of these interlocking antiqued
mosaic tiles, which are made from reclaimed wood, can transform any space into
a work of art. Reclaimed wood comes from a variety of sources including retired
boats and old barns. The wood is typically placed on a mesh back like a mosaic
for ease of installation. Authentic wooden mosaics offer dimension and geometry,
modernizing a traditionally rustic look. Multiple finishes, patterns, and shapes
offer numerous ways to integrate real wood into a space. Note: Due to the nature
of wood, this tile requires specific installation considerations including wood glue
and specific acclimation and cure times.
1.41 Learning Objective #4

Notes:

In the final section of the course, we will describe the various tile formats
available, including subway, mosaic, and large format, as well as new
innovations that are stretching the limits of tile design.
1.42 Subway Tile

Notes:

The popular 3" × 6" subway tile was designed by George C. Heins and
Christopher Grant La Farge and coined its name from the glossy white ceramic
tile used to build New York City’s first subway station in 1904. Subway tile gained
popularity in commercial kitchens and public restrooms because it was stain-
resistant and easy to clean.
1.43 Designing with Subway Tile

Notes:

This timeless, affordable tile can be found in a wide variety of sizes, colors,
finishes, and materials and is used abundantly throughout residential and
commercial buildings for a retro look. Subway tiles are most often ceramic, but
there are glass, porcelain, and natural stone varieties too. They come in a full
color wheel of options, as well as finishes ranging from glossy and polished to
honed and matte.

They can be easily arranged in interesting patterns such as:

 Vertical and horizontal, offset/stacked
 Herringbone (45- to 90-degree or double)
 Parquet style
 Basket weave
1.44 Mosaic Tile

Notes:

Mosaic designs consist of small pieces of marble, stone, glass, metal, or other
materials organized into either structured or irregular patterns. Mosaic art graced
the walls and floors of ancient temples, churches, and palaces, forming
geometric patterns or depicting elaborate scenes. Without modern tools, work of
this caliber was labor-intensive, but today's mosaic tiles are relatively easy to
install with various patterns on a single sheet. Mosaics may contain just one tile
material or a mix of materials and designs.
1.45 Designing with Mosaics

Notes:

Mosaic tile is a timeless choice that will never go out of style. Today's popular
mosaics borrow elements from the past while incorporating the present. Mosaic
tiles help designers create everything from elegant, traditional masterpieces
using ceramic or glass tiles to sleek, modern metal backsplashes and pebble-
look fireplace surrounds.

Mosaic tile is commonly seen in the kitchen backsplash to create a bold

statement. Kitchen mosaic tile is water- and stain-resistant and easy to clean with
minimal maintenance.
1.46 Designing with Mosaics

Notes:

Another common use for mosaic tile is floors, because a floor pattern is easily
transferable to a wall, creating a seamless transition in a bathroom or shower.
Due to the sloped nature of most shower floors, mosaic tiles are required
because they conform to the curve. The combination of substantial grout lines,
mixed finishes, and texture make for a slip-resistant surface. Mosaic tile is great
on both the walls and tub surrounds of bathrooms as well. It is possible to create
a bold and unique look on a smaller budget due to their versatility and cost-
effectiveness.

Ceramic and porcelain mosaics are fire-resistant, moisture-resistant, and durable.

Hygienic and easy to clean, they offer stunning beauty and solid performance.
Travertine, marble and slate have natural variations in color and texture that
provide distinctive appeal. The charming, natural look of pebble mosaics is
perfect for neutral palettes and nature-themed spaces. Metal mosaic tiles have a
sleek, modern appearance offering efficient performance and lasting durability.
1.47 Waterjet Mosaics

Notes:

If you’ve been paying attention to popular tile trends, you’ve probably noticed that
there are more exciting design choices available today than ever before. Some of
these designs are made by waterjet technology, an innovative cutting power that
can cut precise details into decorative tile. Just as the name suggests, waterjet
tile is made with a high-powered stream of water that cuts through hard-surface
materials like glass, metal, and stone. One of the most surprising materials cut
with waterjet technology is glass. Previously, only saws could cut through stone
or metal, and glass had to be hand-crafted into each shape to prevent breakage.
Now, it can be easily and delicately cut in beautiful shapes and patterns at a
more affordable price.
1.48 Designing with Waterjet Mosaics

Notes:

The possibilities for waterjet tile are endless. Because waterjet technology makes
intricate details possible, waterjet mosaics can provide softer lines and curves
than traditional mosaic tile. They can be used on walls in the foyer, bathroom,
living room, kitchen, shower, and more. Cover the whole wall in place of
wallpaper, or use it alone in one small space to create a focal point in large
rooms. These mosaics can mix stone with other materials including glass, metal,
mother of pearl, moonstone, and more, allowing the use of exotic stones in small
doses that won’t put the project over budget.

The process is quite expensive because hand-detailing is required when laying

the patterns on the mesh, but the precise technology used to cut the pieces in a
waterjet means that there is very little wasted material.
1.49 Large Format Tile

Notes:

Large format tile (LFT) is defined as a tile of any material that is 15 inches or
greater on any side. They come in square and rectangular shapes in ceramic,
porcelain, and stone and can be used on floors and walls. All LFT requires
special considerations to achieve a proper and professional installation. A flat
substrate is necessary on floors and walls to prevent unsightly shadows and
waves (note TCNA Standard for flatness). A staggered layout cannot exceed 1/3
offset. On the floor, lippage can form - vertical displacement between two
adjacent tiles (Note ANSI A108.02-2013 Lippage Guidelines). Lippage not only
gives the space an untidy appearance, but it also leaves the edges of the tile
exposed so they can chip, then snag. Avoid lippage by using large and heavy tile
(LHT) mortar, specified for LFT. Also use leveling clips to even out high and low
points on the tile that naturally occur during the firing process.

Source: https://www.constructionspecifier.com/tile-and-stone-lippage-what-is-
acceptable-and-how-do-you-specify-it/2/
1.50 Designing with LFT

Notes:

Large format tile can be used to maximize visual space and reduce visual
interruption by requiring fewer grout joints. Minimizing grout lines creates crisp
designs that aren’t so busy, and are easier to maintain. LFT can help a small
space look larger, or it can be can be used to create a more open, transitional
space. Sometimes it’s hard to know where to stop or start materials in large,
open spaces; large format tiles are perfect for such applications (i.e. kitchens or
entryways) because they can provide a unified look between adjacent spaces.
12" x 24" tile is a good middle ground for most spaces. Using LFTs horizontally
will create the illusion of a wider space. Or, use LFTs vertically for taller-looking
walls, even providing a wallpaper effect.
1.51 Multifired Tile

Notes:

Multifired tile is tile that has been fired in a kiln multiple times. The multifired
process can provide unique dimension and texture to the tile such as different
colors, intricate patterns, or effects such as metallic, iridescent, or pearlescent. In
the standard tile production process, tiles are generally fired once or twice. The
first firing defines the body, or the bisque, of the tile. The glaze or printed pattern
is applied, then the second firing strengthens the tile and provides the desired
porosity.
In the multifired tile process, raw materials are mixed together and shaped. Once
the materials dry, each firing that the tiles go through has to be at a specific
temperature, which is time consuming because kilns are scheduled for certain
temperatures throughout the month. The first firing defines the body or bisque of
the tile, while the second establishes the base color. The glazes that are applied
before the third or fourth firings are often digitally printed onto the tile into intricate
patterns. This type of glaze holds its shape more than others, resulting in a 3D
effect.
All multifired tiles have some element of dimension and texture due to this
glazing process. The third and fourth firings allow the glaze or 3D effects to stand
above the base color. After a last firing and cooling, the tiles are finally complete
works of art. This extended process of cooling, waiting, and firing produces a
very special porcelain or ceramic tile.

Source: https://blog.tileshop.com/multifired-tile/
1.52 Designing with Multifired Tile

Notes:

Multifired tiles can be used on an accent wall like wallpaper - but with much
greater durability. Don’t use other pieces that will look too busy, and be sure to
complement them with solid colors so the tiles stand out. Layer finishing pieces
with multifired tile to bring out accent colors and provide an elevated look.
1.53 Sculptural Tile

Notes:

A new technology allows tiles to have very pronounced shapes and ridges.
Sculptural tile is three-dimensional, adding depth and interest to walls with
texture, reflections, and shadowing. It comes in many sizes ranging from small
format like subway tile to large format tiles that are fully 3D. Large format
sculptural tiles provide the look of an intricate mosaic but with fewer grout lines.
They also come in many different colors, shapes, and sizes, although they tend
to be neutral in color in order to highlight the unique shape.

Source: https://blog.tileshop.com/2020-tile-trend-sculptural/
1.54 Designing with Sculptural Tile

Notes:

3D tiles can be used on their own as a work of art. Used in a variety of patterns in
different combinations, they create a unique look. The tile is created in a pattern,
but you can create different looks by rotating individual tiles in the layout, such as
a simple repeat, rotating, pinwheel, or random placement.

Pattern possibilities include:

 Geometric designs
 Sweeping movements
 Flora and fauna
 Modern straight stack pattern
 Colors
 Marble
1.55 Summary of Design Considerations

Notes:

We’ve discussed quite a few tile materials, formats, and technologies throughout
this course, but there are some basic design guidelines we’ve covered as well
that will ensure the client is pleased with the end result and the installation
performs as intended.

To summarize:
 Including a variety of tile sizes can help create interest in the space or design.
 Make sure that coordinating finishing pieces such as trim are used to truly make
the project stand out.
 Tile can be used to create a design that is the main focal point, or as a
complementing accent.
 It’s okay to mix different types of tile, including natural stone with man-made
tiles.
 Combining tile from different styles such as traditional and contemporary can
create new looks.
1.56 Summary of Tile Selection

Notes:

When specifying the best tile material and format for an application, it’s important
to consider the following:
 Whether it’s an interior or exterior application
 Whether the space is dry or prone to moisture
 Whether the hard surface will be installed in a high- or low-foot-traffic area
 The size of the space
 Whether a formal or casual look is desired
 The type and amount of natural and artificial lighting in the space
 How much cleaning and maintenance the client is willing to undertake
1.57 Thank You

Notes:

Thank you for your interest in the course, Designing with Tile Today - From
Ancient History to Modern Innovations, presented by Hanley Wood in
conjunction with Floor & Decor Commercial.

Please contact Floor & Decor Commercial directly for any questions related to
the materials covered in this course.