Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between ceramic, porcelain and natural tile?
A: Natural tile is quarried from the sides of mountains all over the world in large blocks. These blocks are then cut down into small tile sized pieces and polished using diamond infused pads. These pads, just like sandpaper on wood, sequentially bring out the desired level of gloss. There are no artificial properties added to the tile and your finished product will reflect the nature of the ground's mineral make up where the stone is quarried.

Ceramic tile is traditionally kiln fired white or red clay. The desired pattern or color is added to the surface and almost all tiles are then covered with a liquid glass finish which makes them impervious to almost any wear or abuse. Ceramic tile is traditionally used in lighter traffic areas such as homes or walls.

Porcelain tile is also made from clay, but the material is pressed to greatly increase the density of the material. This helps the tile resist moisture and staining. Some of these tiles carry their color all the way through the tile making excessive wear possible while still maintaining the desired look and color match. Porcelain tile is traditionally used in the highest traffic areas.

Q: Does my tile need to be sealed?
A: Natural tile does need to be sealed. This normally needs to be done about once every two years. The sealer is available at any big box DIY store or tile distributor and is very simple to apply. We recommend mixing it with warm water and simply using it as you would to sponge clean your tile. In fact, this can be used as an alternate cleaner on that day as it will be very effective in removing build up from hard water. Please follow your individual product's exact recommendations for safety and usage. You will know your tile needs to be resealed when it starts accepting and retaining water. If it remains unaffected by water, it does not need to be sealed. You will find that many natural stone tiles, depending on usage, will never need to be sealed again after initial sealing by TSI. The grout will be sealed along with the stone.

Ceramic and Porcelain tile do not need to be sealed due to the glass coating. The surrounding grout, however, will need to be sealed. There are many types of grouts and sealers available that suit different applications. Most grouts will require yearly resealing. Please see your TSI representative for more details.

Q: Do you just sell tile without installation?
A: Yes. There will be, however, a delivery and stocking fee based on the amount of tile you order and where it needs to be stocked on the jobsite. Please note that any questions on breakage or returns need to be addressed directly with the disctributor.