What are the Different Tile Types?
Natural Stone, Ceramic & Porcelain Product Descriptions

Marble building products are processed from blocks that are quarried all over the world. This metamorphic rock is comprised primarily of calcium carbonate and other minerals that create a wide variety of colors. Applications include floor tiles, wall tiles, vanities & other surfaces, fireplaces, columns, balustrades, water tables, steps, thresholds & windowsills.

Polished Marble:
High gloss finish - vivid colors.
Excellent for wall and light traffic floor use.
Must use grout in any installation that may be exposed to moisture or installation will eventually fail.
Must use unsanded or epoxy grout to prevent scratching finish.
Sealers do not penetrate well and offer little protection against etching and will not protect against abrasion.
Very expensive to repolish or remove stains.

Tumbled Marble:
Natural looking aged finish - soft muted colors.
Best choice for floors, bath and countertop use.
Displays best surrounded with honed or tumbled field tile.
Must use grout in any installation that may be exposed to moisture or installation will eventually fail.
May use sanded grout for additional strength - excellent for outdoor applications.
Accepts enhancers and sealers readily - excellent protection against etching - scratches are less obvious.
Resistant to staining and easy to reseal.

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Granite is the most durable architectural building stone. This igneous rock is comprised mainly of quartz, graphite, mica and other minerals. The increasing popularity of this stone is a testament to its beauty, versatility and consistency. Used in a wide array of commercial and residential applications, granite is ideal for tile floors, walls and countertops, as well as exterior applications such as pavers and wall cladding. Granite is quarried worldwide, with the most exotic colors coming from Brazil, India, Finland, North America, China and Southern Africa. New quarries are discovered each year further enhancing color choices and keeping prices in check.

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Limestone is a sandy sedimentary rock formed closer to the earth's surface and often captures fossilized plant and animal life. Similar to marble and granite, limestone is processed for a wide range of interior and exterior building applications, including floor tiles, wall tiles, vanities & other surfaces, fireplaces, columns, balustrades, water tables, steps, thresholds & windowsills. Limestone can be polished to a high gloss finish, but is more commonly known for its honed (matte), tumbled (antique or acid washed) and natural (split face or rough) finishes, typically in more neutral tones.

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Travertine, mostly known for its porosity, is comprised primarily of calcium carbonate. Slabs and tiles are cut from blocks with the veining (regular cut) or across the veining (cross-cut). Processors of this material will market the stone as is, with the holes for a more rustic & antique look, or fill the holes with a tinted epoxy and hone or polish the surface to achieve a solid surface effect. The stone is used in a wide range of interior and exterior building applications, including floor tiles, wall tiles, vanities & other surfaces, fireplaces, columns, balustrades, water tables, steps, thresholds & windowsills.

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Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock that splits into thin, smooth-surfaced layers. The most common building applications for this material are floor, wall and roof tiles as well as fireplace surrounds. Tiles can be split and cut-to-size with only the natural cleft surface, or manufacturers will add value by calibrating the material to ensure a consistent thickness throughout the piece.

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Ceramic & Porcelain tiles are hard, brittle, heat-resistant products that are manufactured by firing clay and other materials. Porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile fired from pure white clay to generate a translucent effect. The patterns of these products attempt to emulate the look of natural stone products; the prices are typically less expensive; and the color range is very consistent due to the man-made nature of the product. As a result, ceramic & porcelain tiles are an excellent alternative for the value-oriented buyer. Primary applications include floor and wall tiles, along with trim and transition (corner, wall to floor, etc.) pieces.

Tile Terminology

Bullnose Tiles: Trim tiles featuring one rounded edge used to finish wall installations.

Decorated Tiles: Ceramic tiles that have been embellished by means of hand-painting, silk-screening, decals or other techniques.

Frostproof Tiles: Tiles specifically designed by the manufacturer to withstand freeze/thaw conditions with minimal effect, hence suitable for exterior applications exposed to high humidity and low temperatures.

Frost Resistance: Ability of certain tiles to withstand freeze/thaw conditions with minimal effect.

Grout: Installation material used to fill the joints between tiles

Matte Glaze: Glaze that produces a non-shiny finish.

Moncottura Tiles: Tiles produced by the single-firing method. Also called Single-fired tiles. Glazed tiles produced by the single-firing method in which the raw tile body and gaze undergo a single pass through the kiln at high temperatures.

Mortar: The setting material used to bond tiles to a given surface. Different types of mortar are suitable for different backing and conditions.

Mounted Tiles: Tiles assembled into units or sheets by the manufacturer for easier installation.

Porcelain Tiles: Dust-pressed ceramic tiles with water absorption levels of less than 0.5% and high mechanical and chemical characteristics. The surface of these tiles may be glazed or unglazed, polished or unpolished.

Ceramic Tile FAQs

Tile Ratings
Among the manufacturers of ceramic tile there are certain standards that are universal. ISO Standards have been established by the International Standards Organization to unify product standards and testing methods for ceramic tiles worldwide. One of the most important of these standards is the PEI rating. The P.E.I. (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating is a measurement of how well a ceramic tile will wear. Generally, ceramic tile manufacturers classify their products in 5 categories. They are as follows:

PEI I Usually refers to tiles applicable for wall installations only
PEI II Suitable for floor applications where there is very light traffic
PEI III Suitable for most residential applications other than kitchens.
PEI IV Suitable for all residential applications and some light commercial applications
PEI V Suitable for all applications except malls, airports and transportation terminals
In addition, there is a classification, U, which is given to products specifically designed for industrial applications.

What is the difference between glazed and unglazed tile?
Glazed tile is coated with a surface finish (glaze) fused to the body by firing at very high temperatures. Because of the ease of adding color, pattern and texture to the glaze, style, color and design are virtually unlimited. The color of unglazed tile results from the natural clay of the tile body or pigment added to the clay. The colors are more limited but because that color extends throughout the tile, wear is not visible. Unglazed tile is, therefore, an excellent choice for the most heavily trafficked areas.

Will ceramic tile break or chip?
Ceramic tile is more susceptible to breaking before installation than after. After proper installation, it is very difficult to break or chip tile unless it is hit with a heavy object such as a hammer having a small impact area. Structural breaks can occur if there is movement in the substrate. If damaged, individual tiles can be replaced.

Is ceramic tile cold?
Tile is actually the same temperature as the surrounding air. It holds warmth in a sunny room or a cooler temperature in an air conditioned or cold room. Body temperature is usually warmer than the air, and this causes tile to feel cool.

Is ceramic tile slippery?
Slip-resistance will vary with the type of tile. Ceramic floor tile will have about the same slip-resistance as other hard surface floors such as vinyl or wood. Naturally, if there is liquid spilled on any hard surface floor, the slip-resistance will greatly diminish. Abrasive surfaces are available on many tiles. Keep in mind that the more abrasive a tile surface is, the more difficult maintenance will be. Consider using a mat at entrances and wet areas.

How durable is ceramic tile?
Ceramic tile, properly installed, should last the lifetime of your home with minimum care. Tile will not show wear when used on walls; unglazed floor tile also will not show wear. Glazed floor tile is dependent on the durability of the glaze and body and the amount of traffic to which it is subjected. Most manufacturers do classify the durability of their tile.

Can ceramic tile be used outdoors?
There are numerous ceramic tiles that are frost-resistant and are excellent for patios, porches, pool decks, etc. Many unglazed tiles are suitable for exterior use. Their slip-resistance will be dependent on the surface texture, and slip-resistance is important! Glazed, frost-resistant tiles are recommended for vertical exterior surfaces only. The ceramic tile manufacturer will indicate if a participate type of tile is frost-resistant. A frost-resistant installation method is essential.

Does ceramic tile have shade variation?
As is true with other quality decorating products such as textiles, carpet, wall coverings, and wood, ceramic tile does have shade variations. Hand-crafted tiles generally have the greatest variation, and this quality contributes to their unique beauty. Samples are meant to represent the tile as adequately as possible but may vary to some degree. Be sure to inspect your tile before it is installed to determine if it meets your approval.

What should I know about grout?
Grout, the colored mortar between tiles, has been drastically improved in recent years. It is available in numerous colors to coordinate with your tile choice. The actual finished grout color in an installation is affected by moisture, temperature and installation techniques. Because of these variables, the installed shade may differ from a showroom sample. Choose grout color to blend rather than match. Today, there are grout formulas that contribute to stain-resistance and mildew-resistance. Good maintenance procedures that remove surface soil always improve the appearance of any ceramic tile installation. Improved sealers can assist in keeping the grout at its best.

Does ceramic tile require a special floor construction?
Standard floor construction of 2" x 10" floor joists spaced 16" on center with 5/8" plywood subfloor and 3/8" plywood underlayment is suitable. However, more than 20 years' experience shows that a rigid, cementitious backer board is superior to plywood as an underlayment. A clean, structurally sound concrete slab is suitable and does not require additional underlayment.

Should ceramic tile be waxed?
Sealer is unnecessary and should never be used on glazed tile. Sealer is often used on unglazed natural clay tile, pavers or unglazed porcelain tile. Some manufacturers of these products recommend a particular sealer. However, in most cases, a good penetrating sealer is advisable. It is usually invisible or provides a soft luster. Heavy sealers such as urethane are not recommended because of potential scaling or uneven wear.

Should sealer be used on ceramic tile?
The initial installed cost of ceramic tile may be higher than other finish materials. Today's improved technology, marketing and competitive pricing have decreased the margin of difference. When considering the true cost comparison, you must look at the life span of ceramic tile. Due to the fact that you probably will never have to replace your tile and the low cost and easy maintenance, ceramic tile is the least expensive of all finishes. Statistics show that an investment in ceramic tile will increase the value of your home.

How does the price of ceramic tile compare with other floor coverings, wall finishes and counter tops?
The initial installed cost of ceramic tile may be higher than other finish materials. Today's improved technology, marketing and competitive pricing have decreased the margin of difference. When considering the true cost comparison, you must look at the life span of ceramic tile. Due to the fact that you probably will never have to replace your tile and the low cost and easy maintenance, ceramic tile is the least expensive of all finishes. Statistics show that an investment in ceramic tile will increase the value of your home.

Ceramic Tile Care

Type of Tile/Usage	Routine Cleaning	Heavy Duty Cleaning
Glazed Walls/Countertops	Wipe with damp cloth or sponge using all-purpose cleaner. Use window cleaner for glossy surfaces. Wipe dry with cloth.	Clean with scouring powder, commercial tile cleaner, or all-purpose cleaner using non-metallic scouring pad or very fine grade stainless steel pad. Rinse and wipe dry.
Glazed Tile Floors	Vacuum regularly to remove gritty particles. Damp mop using solution of water and "soapless detergent.	Use a commercial tile cleaner or a strong solution of water and "soapless" detergent. If stained, use scouring powder paste. Let stand for five minutes, brush and scrub. Rinse and dry. For large areas and for areas that are difficult to clean, a power scrubber is recommended.
Glazed Tile Showers	Use all-purpose or bathroom cleaner. Allow to stand for five minutes rinse and dry. May also use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar or a commercial tile cleaner.	Use chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide*. For stubborn stains, use scouring powder containing a bleaching agent. Let stand four to six minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. To remove mildew, use a commercial tile cleaner, chlorine bleach or ammonia. DO NOT MIX.
Unglazed Tile Walls	Sponge with a diluted solution of water and "soapless" detergent.	Use scouring powder paste. Let stand for five minutes, then scour with brush. Rinse and wipe dry.
Unglazed Tile Floors	Vacuum regularly to remove gritty particles. Damp mop or sponge with water and/or a diluted solution of water and "soapless" detergent.	Use scouring powder paste. Let stand for five minutes, then scour with brush. Rinse and wipe dry. A small brush is suitable for small floors; consider a scrubbing machine for larger areas.
Natural Porcelain/Semi-Polished Porcelain**	Vacuum regularly to remove gritty particles. Damp mop using a solution of water and "soapless detergent", rinse and then wipe dry.	Use scouring powder paste. Let stand for five minutes, then scour with brush. Rinse and wipe dry. A small brush is suitable for small floors; consider a scrubbing machine for larger areas.
Commercial Applications	For smaller commercial areas, vacuum regularly to remove gritty particles. Using a "soapless detergent", scrub with an inexpensive nylon brush (such as a "Doodle Bug"). Follow by using a dry/wet vac to remove water and soap residue. Note: After initial cleaning, replace nylon brush. Replace thereafter as it becomes worn. A clean scrubber makes for a clean floor. For large commercial settings, consider the use of a commercial floor scrubbing machine.

* With colored grout, test a small inconspicuous area first or follow grout manufacturer's instructions.

**A note on Semi-Polished Porcelain: Porcelain tile is virtually impervious to stains and wear. However, the polishing process opens microscopic pores in the surface of the tile. Therefore, it is recommended that a penetrating sealer be used 2 hours prior to grouting. Penetrating Sealers need only be applied once, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Remember, prompt clean-up of spills and regular cleaning will keep your ceramic tile surfaces looking their best.

DO's and DON'Ts of Ceramic Tile Care
Do not combine ammonia and household bleaches.

Do not use harsh cleaning agents (such as steel wool pads) which can scratch or damage the surface of your tile.

Do test scouring pads in a small area first.

Do use a silicone sealer on grout joints if continuous staining is a problem.

Do read and follow label directions for all cleaners.

Do visit El Dorado Tile Marble and Granite for advice on special cleaning problems or if you have any questions.

Care and Maintenance of Tile Grout
Grout may present a special cleaning problem because it is susceptible to many staining agents. Apply a silicone sealer to grout joints several times a year for maximum protection.

In addition to keeping the grout clean, be sure to keep grout joints in good repair. Scrape out loose, cracked or powdery joints and refill with a good grout.

One common grouting trouble spot is the joint between the tub and and the wall in your bathroom. As the house or tub settles, the grout may crack and crumble. It's relatively simple to remedy. Remove the old grout with a sharp pointed tool, watching out that you don't scratch tile or tub. Then dry the joint thoroughly and fill with a flexible caulking compound, such as silicone rubber caulking

Stain Removal Guide
Stain	Removal Agent
Grease and fats	Soda and water or commercial spot lifter
Inks and colored dyes	Household bleach
Blood	Hydrogen Peroxide or household bleach
Coffee, tea, food, fruit, lipstick, juices	Neutral cleaner in hot water followed by hydrogen peroxide or household bleach
*Caution: Vinegar may damage some tile glazes. Be sure to test this solution first in a small area to see if it etches the tile or erodes the grout.

Porcelain Tile FAQs

Isn't porcelain delicate and easy to break?
No. There are different types of porcelain, including dishes and dolls, that can be very fragile. Porcelain stone, on the other hand, is tough and long lasting because it is fired at extremely high temperatures (2000° F and above) until it becomes vitrified (glass-like). This process makes porcelain stone 30 percent harder than natural stones such as granite and marble. Prove it to yourself by trying to scratch a piece of porcelain stone with your house keys. Or, put a pencil under a porcelain stone, step on both sides of the top, and rock back and forth. Ordinary tile or stone would break - not porcelain stone!

My porcelain sink chipped. Won't porcelain stone chip, too? Or, what if I drop a big can of tomatoes on the kitchen floor?
Not to worry. Your sink is merely glazed with porcelain, so the color doesn't go all the way through like it does with porcelain stone. With porcelain stone, there's never a problem with wearing through the color layer. If porcelain stone were to somehow chip, you probably wouldn't even notice - it's the same color inside as outside.

How does porcelain stone compare in cost to other countertop materials, like granite, laminates or solid surfacings?
Porcelain stone may cost more than humanmade laminates, but it is important to compare value - not price. On the other hand, porcelain stone costs less than most solid surfacing products and some natural stones, like granite. Porcelain stone delivers great looks, an incredible range of color options, easy installation and wipe-clean maintenance.

Suppose I put porcelain stone on my kitchen counter. Will it absorb stains or form mildew along the grout lines?
Porcelain stone is almost totally non-absorbent, which means it is virtually impervious to stains and mildew. It's the grout between the stones that you need to be savvy about. Many countertops are now installed with 100 percent epoxy grouts that are easy to use, clean up quickly following installation and refuse to stain or mildew. Otherwise, an application of high performance grout sealer is recommended to retard the staining of joints when using conventional sanded grout.

I want a real bright white tile. The porcelain stone colors look creamy. Will they work with the white background in my wallpaper?
Porcelain stone is made from raw materials found in the earth that simply don't come in bright white. Ordinary tile can be made from any kind of clay since the body color is hidden under the glaze, whereas white porcelain stone shows its true color throughout.

I'd like to buy porcelain stone for my great room, but won't it be cold?
Not necessarily. Porcelain stone is no different in temperature than anything else in the room; it's just that we tend to equate smooth with cold. (Of course, cool is good in warm weather climates!) Still, it's easy to warm things up with an area rug or two. Or, if you're installing a brand new floor, ask your contractor about under-floor radiant heating. Low-voltage electrical floor warming systems are available, affordable and easy on your heating budget.

Why does porcelain stone cost more than ordinary ceramic tile?
Because you are getting a superior product. Porcelain stone requires the finest natural ingredients and a rigidly controlled manufacturing process that utilizes the most advanced processes and technology.

Why are certain colors of porcelain stone more expensive than others?
Simply because some colors cost more to manufacture than others. The coloring agents are more expensive and more difficult to control, requiring more technology, time and skill.

How do you install porcelain stone tile? Does it need a special adhesive or grout? Do you have to seal it?
Porcelain stone is installed as easily as ordinary ceramic tile, using the same installation tools. A different adhesive is used with Porcelain tile than with Ceramic tile. In most cases, your installer will know which setting material is best, but if you're planning a do-it-yourself project, it's a good idea to discuss your particular installation with the knowledgeable folks at El Dorado Tile, Marble and Granite.

What size grout joint should I use?
The size of your grout joint is a personal decision that you need to make. Keep in mind, however, that larger grout joints tend to crack and attract more dirt. Some people suggest a thinner grout joint. As thin as 1/8" to 3/16" is best. If your design includes stones of multiple sizes, consider using a 1/4" grout joint throughout, which adds consistency to the overall appearance.

How do I keep the polished porcelain stone shining? It looks like a lot of work.
The trick to keeping porcelain stone shining is to thoroughly rinse off the dirty wash water when cleaning it. Detergent residue can form a coating that's difficult to remove, even from porcelain stone. Once you've cleaned your polished porcelain stone, dry the floor thoroughly with a soft cloth or a buffing pad to enhance the shine and prevent water spots.

Granite and Marble

What do I need to consider when buying marble or granite?
Because they are natural stones, marble and granite are blessed with a remarkable natural beauty that has captivated humans throughout the ages. Inherent in such natural products is a certain lack of predictability that sophisticated architects and designers celebrate. Consumers who are less acquainted with the material expect the marble ordered to be identical to the picture or sample they were shown. Although sample stones are intended to be representative of the quarry's product, the material quarried at one time may differ slightly in color an veining from the sample. Moreover, even a single marble or granite slab will possess a certain amount of color variation from one end to the other. Interior designers and architects have come to view this tendency of natural stone as an advantage. Slight irregularities can be pleasing, introducing an element of the natural into human-designed spaces, whether residential or commercial.

What's the difference between marble and granite?
Although both are stones and both are quarried from the earth, granite and marble (and marble’s relatives – limestone, onyx and travertine) are very different from each other. Granite is formed deep in the earth’s mantle at extremely high temperatures, and is a very hard, resistant stone made of crystallized minerals. The marble family – limestone, travertine, marble, onyx – starts out as sediment – animal skeletons and shells, plant matter, silt – at the bottom of bodies of water. After millions of years this solidifies (lithifies) into stone. Because its main component is calcium, it can be affected by acids such as vinegar and citrus beverages.

Should I use marble or granite for my kitchen countertops?
Although typical application of marble is for the bathroom vanity tops, Jacuzzi tops and fireplaces, it is possible to use it in the kitchen. However, due to the fact that it is easy to scratch and is affected by acidic substances, such as vinegars, ketchups, etc., we don’t usually recommend it. Moreover the high-gloss of the marble countertop can be partially lost as many chemicals etch its surface. Granite in turn is considered the second hardest stone, its polish is not subject to etching by household acids, or scratching by knives and pots and pans under normal use. It is also not affected by typical kitchen heat such as hot pans

Is it necessary to seal stone?
Since mineral surfaces are quite porous they absorb liquids, which may result in discoloring and staining. Although there are many commercial grade products available on the market which may bring the stone to its to its original luster, taking simple precautions and regular maintenance can save a lot of trouble and cost. All marble an granite tops are sealed immediately after they are installed. The impregnating substance penetrates the stone clogging most of its pores making its quite impervious to alcohol, juices, soft drinks, cosmetics, cleaners, coffee, food and even oil. With course of time, depending on how heavily the tops are used, the sealer gets washed out. The clear indication of this happening would be the fact that the liquids are easily absorbed into the stone leaving temporary (if promptly wiped off) stains.

Do I have to buy the whole sheet/slab?
Slabs are always sold intact. Buying random slabs is similar to buying fabric. Like a seamstress or tailor, your fabricator buys the raw material and sells you a completed installation. In the price is included the cost of transporting the material, making field measurements and templates, cutting, polishing, bringing the pieces to your job site and fitting them into place. How much material he needs is determined by the layout and the amount of waste. The fabricator will lay out your job in a way that will minimize the amount of waste material while maximizing the natural beauty of veining and pattern.

What is the best way to clean marble and other stones?
The old rule of thumb is never to use anything you wouldn't use on your hands. Never use powdered cleansers or abrasive pads to clean your stone. Even "soft scrub" type cleaners contain pumice, which is powdered volcanic stone, and might damage your stone countertops or floors. Never use any product which is acidic; this includes substances like ammonia or many common liquid cleaners such as Windex. You should always use sealers and cleaning products designed specifically for natural stone.

Granite FAQs

Can I cut on my granite countertop?
Only if you want to ruin your good knives. Granite is harder than your knife blades and will dull them very quickly if you use the countertop as a cutting surface. Always cut and chop on a wooden or plastic cutting board.

Can my granite top be damaged?
Like any solid surface, high impact blows can harm granite. Because of its crystalline structure, it can chip if subjected to sharp hard objects. Unsealed, granite can absorb stains such as oil, which can ultimately cause dark spots or discoloration. Heat from pots and pans or burning liquids will not affect granite under normal circumstances.

My little sample of granite has pits on the surface – will I have these on my kitchen counters?
Granite, which is crystalline in structure, always has tiny pits – spaces between the various mineral crystals. You don’t see them on a larger piece because the overall appearance is polished and mirror-like. Granite sometimes has natural fissures as well, which may look like cracks, but are not structural defects and are a naturally occurring result of the immense heat and pressure which formed the granite eons ago. These characteristics are part of the natural beauty of stone and will not impair the function or durability of the material. A product of nature cannot be expected to look humanmade.

How do I clean my granite tops?
POLISHED GRANITE is a very durable stone, much harder than marble. Polished Granite should receive the same cleaning care as polished marble, using a mild phosphate-free, biodegradable liquid dish-soap, soap flakes or powder which contain no aromatics, followed by a through rinsing and drying with cotton-flannel or chamois.

Will my granite look like the sample?
Granite is a natural material with naturally occurring variations in color, tone, granularity, pattern, etc. These variations are expected and are the source of its natural beauty.

Does granite stain?
In general, no. All stone, however, is porous to some extent, but granite has very little porosity. Most colors will never show any moisture. A few colors may show some moisture if exposed for a period of time. For example, a puddle of water left on the counter for 30 minutes for some colors, may show a dark spot when the water is wiped away. This spot will then dry up and no evidence will show. Only a few colors demonstrate this trait.

Can I set hot pot on my granite countertop?
Granite is formed by extreme heat and pressure combined beneath the earths crust. It can not be affected by heat from a cook top or frying pan. A lit flame placed under the granite will have no melting effect and will not leave any burned or scarred marks.

Can granite chip?
In only cases of sever abuse with a hammer or impact tool. A chip can be filled with a granite dust and epoxy mixture.

Can granite seams show?
Because granite is a natural material and is mined from the quarry in blocks usually no more than 10' long, you will end up with seams. Also, because granite is sold in rectangular pieces, you may want to use seams to reduce your costs, such as in an 'L' shaped corner. The visibility of seams will depend on the granularity, color and pattern. A small, uniform grain will not be as apparent as a larger varied grain. A dark color will be less apparent than a light color. A dramatic pattern with swaths of color will show more seams than a uniform pattern. Most customers have found that the beauty of natural granite outweighs the concern of seams.

How are seams made?
Seams are done where the granite joins with a smooth, straight cut. During installation, a small bead of silicone is placed along the seam to seal it. Occasionally, in areas of stress or without sufficient support, the seams will be joined with epoxy, which must be supported temporarily until the epoxy cures.

Can granite crack?
Not with the ordinary use. Granite is most susceptible to cracks during shipping and installation. Normal use will not overstress this durable material.

Can granite cantilever?
You can cantilever granite up to 14" with sufficient support on the fixed end and with a large enough piece. Never cantilever unsupported granite where it might receive excessive stress like someone sitting on a counter or stepping on a counter to change a light bulb. You must have support underneath for these situations.

Marble FAQs

Can I use marble on my kitchen counters?
Yes. In fact, marbles that have a honed finish will not etch because its surface starts out with a matte finish. Because marbles (and limestone and travertine) are calcium carbonate, the polished surface is more vulnerable to household acids including vinegar, mustard, catsup, citrus and a host of other food-related products. These acidic substances cause a chemical reaction which will remove the polish.

Is marble really appropriate to use in kitchens or high-traffic areas?
Yes. Since ancient times, marble has been used in all areas of the Grecian home; from furnishings to floors. These Greek marbles have proven as durable as materials traditionally considered to be sturdier with the added benefit of creating a warm welcoming atmosphere.

Can I cut on marble?
Marble is a more porous material and therefore likely to be damaged by a sharp object.

Additional FAQS

Does El Dorado Tile, Marble and Granite do tile installations?
We do not do tile installations. Please consult the Yellow Pages for information on tile setters.

Can floor tiles also be used for walls?
Yes, if the correct laying methods are used.

If my question is not listed here, how can I get an answer?
Click here to email El Dorado Tile, Marble and Granite Tile Floors, or call 530-677-7840 for our Shingle Springs store or 916-315-8479 for our Rocklin store.