Kaiser Tile University
Tile and Stone 101
A Synopsis on the Characteristics of Tile and Stone
As new shipments of tile come from overseas,
each container carries a new dye lot with it, which may be slightly
different from that of the prior one. The primary factors that
contribute to variation in color and texture in ceramic tile are as
follows:
1. Ceramic tile is a clay-based compound, it is that of the earth,
which is composed of a multitude of sedimentary fragments. Clay varies,
as does the environment from which it is taken.
2. Firing temperature fluctuates from kiln to kiln.
3. The temperature and dew point outside varies each day, which in
turn, has a significant effect on the final appearance of the tile as it
is cooling after being fired.
Particular series of tile are meant to have zero variation, while others
have dramatic highs and lows in color. Some series range from
little or no texture to drastic changes in feel. A series can have any
number of these factors to give it its own distinct and unique
appearance. This chart was created to help buyers get an idea of how
tile can change in a given series.
V = 1 Each tile is given the same glaze application and texture.
There will be very few differences in appearance per piece. Selection
can be made by viewing a single piece of tile from the current dye lot.
V = 2 There may be differences in texture and/or pattern within
similar colors. Selection can be made from a single piece of multiple
pieces of tile from the current dye lot.
V = 3 The amount of color on each piece may vary. While the same
colors are used on each piece, the amount of each color, per piece, may
vary. It is recommended that elections be made from viewing several
pieces of tile from the current dye lot.
V = 4 The tile has the appearance of natural stone and may have
extreme variation in color and texture. There is a multitude of color
not evenly dispersed on each piece. It is suggested that several pieces
be viewed before making a selection.
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