
Frequently Asked Question
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What is a rectified tile?
A rectified tile is defined as a tile that has had all edges mechanically finished to achieve a more precise facial dimension. Rectified tile is ever increasing in popularity. Most popular are the larger size formats often used in conjunction with smaller modular sizes to create patterns.
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Can I use thin tile on the floor?
Yes, you can use thin tile on the floor. Please refer to our technical and maintenance section for installation recommendations.
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Is there a way to expedite my order?
If you are unable to wait for non stock orders (6 - 8 weeks), you can ask for air freight quote.
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Can I use porcelain in the shower?
Yes.
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Can I use porcelain outside?
Yes.
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Do you have representatives outside of California?
Will Stapp - wstapp@specceramics.com
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What is the common difference between ceramic and porcelain?
Although they look the same, the main difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles is that a porcelain tile is denser and less porous than a ceramic tile. In simple terms this means a porcelain tile is much more hardwearing and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, the extra density is a result of a slightly different manufacturing process. Whilst ceramic tiles are only recommended for interior walls and floors, porcelain tiles are a more popular choice for floors that anticipate heavier traffic; we're talking kitchen floors, hallways and commercial applications as they are increasingly resistant to scratching and chipping. There are two types of porcelain tiles - through-body porcelain and glazed porcelain. Through-body porcelain is where the tile has no glaze so the colour/design is the same all the way through so if there was any wear or chips to the tile it'd be very difficult to see. Glazed porcelain is where the tile has been manufactured with a glaze applied to the tile face. In this case the body of the tile is just as hard wearing as a through body porcelain however the glaze has the same characteristics as the glaze on a ceramic tile.
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What is the recommended grout joint width?
1/8"
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Can tile be installed without grout joints?
No.
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Can I use thin tile everywhere regular tile is used?
Yes.
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What is the difference between SCOF and DCOF?
While SCOF relates to the force required for a surface to begin sliding over another (divided by weight), dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) relates to the force needed to keep a surface in motion sliding over another (divided by weight). In other words, we're talking about objects or people already in motion versus those in a static position. (It's important to note that neither SCOF nor DCOF is a property of the flooring alone, but rather a relationship between the shoe sole and the flooring surface.)
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Do your tiles meet LEED requirements?
Please reference our technical and maintenance section for information on specific LEED information. LEED varies per collection.
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Can you recommend a tile contractor?
Yes.
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What is lippage?
Variation in the height of adjoining tiles is called lippage. This is defined in the ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard A108.02, Section 4.3.7: "Lippage refers to differences in elevation between edges of adjacent tile modules."
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How do I maintain my tile?
Tile Floor Cleaning Basics. Sweep or vacuum your glazed tile floors regularly to keep them from getting dull. Tiles may be resistant to dirt, but sand and grit can dull glazed surfaces. Clean tile with mild detergent and clean water, using a rag or chamois-type mop rather than a sponge mop.
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Can you pick up tile at other locations?
Our Fullerton, CA corporate headquarters in the only place to currently will call tile. We are happy to provide you with a freight quote.