Quarry tile
From MaterialProject.org, the free architectural material catalog
Contents |
Material analysis
MasterFormat Number: 09 33 00
Traditional uses
- Quarry or 'Klinker' tiles are generally smaller format unglazed ceramic tiles. As such they have no surface glaze to wear and therefore can provide a higher degree of natural slip resistance. Because of their attractive appearance and hard-wearing properties, quarry tiles are extensively used as interior and exterior floor finishing materials, especially in high traffic areas such as commercial kitchens.
Finish and aesthetic qualities
- Quarry tile comes with or without a glaze and get their color from the choice of natural raw materials put into the “mix” to create the tile.
- Quarry tiles with a base of shale generally have a red or brown color. Tiles with a base of clay generally have a gray or beige color. Some quarry tile is produced with a shade variation from tile to tile. However, the predominant colors are earth shades of red and orange.This classic architectural look (sometimes known as flashing) is achieved through controlling the flow of oxygen and gases in the kiln. Whether monotone or with color variation, all quarry tile colors have a natural look that matches well with other design elements.
Surface forms / shapes
- Generally square but can also be rectangular, hexagonal, & octagonal.
Cost analysis
- Price / SqFt: $1.00 - $5.00
Material properties
Primary structural use
- Applied
Material performance
- Characterized by a water absorption rate of less than 5%
- Quarry tile is unglazed and requires sealing in wet areas.
Dimensional and opening restriction
- 4” -12” with a thickness of 3/8” - 1”
Manufacturing process and assembly
- Manufactured from a mixture of natural ingredients such as clay or shale and hard fired in kilns at high temperatures (sometimes exceeding 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit) to produce a dense body low in porosity and high in strength. They are then extruded through a die and cut. This extrusion process creates a much tighter/denser body than can be achieved through other processes. The die also creates a ribbed back on the tile to improve mortar adhesion. Once extruded, the tiles are sent through a drier and fired in a kiln.
Environment and Life Safety
Environmental impact
- Tile is an inherently low-toxic, waterproof, durable finish material for flooring, walls, and other applications. While tile is somewhat energy-intensive to manufacture, the materials involved are readily available and mined with fairly low impact.
Flammability rating
- Non-Flammable
Coefficient of friction
- Wet: > 0.60
- Dry: > 0.80
References
Notes
Student contributions
- Susan Shaw, Spring 2008
- Danielle Tappis, Fall 2005
See also
Similar materials
External links
Additional resources
Leading manufacturers
