Like many decorative finishes, ceramic tile often is designed to mimic another material. In most cases, that other material is stone. Thanks to improving technologies and new innovations, manufacturers are developing convincing new stone looks, from slate to limestone, that homeowners are looking for on their floors and walls.
Many of the new styles are emerging from a growing use of porcelain tile, a ceramic material that has witnessed a number of manufacturing innovations. Previously considered a niche product, porcelain tile production has grown in recent years because the tiles are durable and offer through-body color that makes it easier to replicate stone looks. New pressing techniques and finishing processes are helping to create more realistic color variations, veining, and texture.
Porcelain innovation is picking up especially in Europe, where many manufacturers, some of which import to the United States, are constantly looking for ways to improve on this building product staple. "The thing we have to recognize is that in the world, tile is used the way we use carpet," says Jim Dougherty, vice president of marketing and business development for Crossville. "So they are always striving to build a better mousetrap."
And it seems that no look is impossible. Aside from traditional stone imitations, companies offer tiles that mimic Old World European styles, Southern desert-weathered looks, and other exotic options. With these realistic looks and superior durab
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