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Stain Resistance: The ability of ceramic tile to withstand permanent staining by a
variety of substances is also important. The stain resistance of ceramic tile varies
depending on its capacity to resist moisture. Glazed ceramic tiles and even some
unglazed tiles resist all types of stains and can be cleaned easily with some
guidance.
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Slip/Skid Resistance: One practical consideration is the level of slip resistance
your ceramic tile floor requires. Slip resistance involves two factors - your
ceramic tile floor's likely exposure to spills and your environmental requirements.
The more your floor will be exposed to spills, the higher your need is for a slip-
resistant floor tile. Also, homes with younger children, disabled or elderly people
need to have floor tiles with slip resistant characteristics.
Ceramic tile manufacturers with the use of various glazes, glaze additives, and
patterns have developed slip resistant tiles. Also, the ceramic tile size, grout joint
spacing, and slope of the floor will affect the slip resistance. In addition, unglazed
ceramic tiles have greater slip resistance than glazed tiles and are recommended
for areas subjected to frequent water spills or heavy foot traffic.
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Dirt Resistance: Ceramic tiles do not retain dust or residues as easily as many
other flooring surfaces. They can be easily cleaned with common household
materials. Additionally, they do not need polishing or buffing to maintain their
finish. A day-to-day cleaning procedure retains the look of the finish and shine
on ceramic tile flooring.
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Color Permanence: Because color is fired into a tile's clay body (in the case of
unglazed tiles) or onto a tile's glazed surface (for glazed tiles), fading cannot
occur. The colors in ceramic tiles do not fade even if exposed to direct sunlight
(and its color-leaching UV rays). They remain permanently color fast.
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Hygiene: The surface of ceramic tiles does not easily retain antigens or allergens,
nor do they absorb fumes, odors or smoke. This feature enables good hygiene and
makes ceramic a suitable flooring material for any environment where hygiene is
essential.