All ceramic tiles are made from mixtures of clays, sand and other natural substances. Pastes are prepared and are then molded into the required shapes. They are then fired at high temperatures between 1000 degrees and 1250 degrees C, depending on the type of tile.

Ceramic tiles are hard, strong, hygienic, easy to clean, not combustible and fire resistant. These are the general advantages and they are also “stiff” (they do not warp or become bent).

Monocottura (single-fired) process tiles in general are more impact resistant than bicottura (twice fired products). All ceramic tiles carry a durability rating from 1 to 4 and commonly referred to as PEI abrasion test (Porcelain Enamel Institute). This rating alone does not completely represent the practical behavior of a ceramic tile.