Tiles, and related pavers, are manufactured repeatable units arranged in various patterns as floor or wall coverings. Crafted with durable materials such as ceramic, clay, metal, stone, wood, and glass, tiles are most commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms where it is desired to have easy to clean and impact resist surfaces.
Pavers, typically distinguished by their increased unit thicknesses and greater durability for exterior applications, are often produced in stone, brick, or concrete and used for roads, driveways, patios, and walkways. In conjunction with the variety of possible patterns available, tiles throughout history have also been used ornamentally to form complex decorative mosaics around the world.
Tiles and pavers have ancient roots, first seen in Mesopotamia and Egypt. For millennia, artisans used clay, baking it to form sturdy surfaces for homes and pathways. By Roman times, these pieces graced vast road networks and intricate mosaics. The Renaissance brought artistic flair, with decorative patterns and designs. The Industrial Revolution ushered in mass production, making tiles and pavers affordable for many. From age-old clay bricks to ornate ceramics, these elements have transformed our living spaces and guided our steps through time.
The future of tiles and pavers is eco-friendly and innovative. Think recycled materials like glass and ocean plastics turned into beautiful tiles. With the rise of smart homes, imagine tiles that capture solar energy or are self-cleaning. Pavers in cities may clean the air or light up pathways at night. Modern designs lean towards bolder colors, geometric patterns, and textures like 3D tiles for added depth. As sustainability and functionality merge, our floors and pathways will be both stylish and smarter.
Although the words tile and paver are often used interchangeably in the tile industry, the difference between a tile and paver is usually determined by the thickness of the unit. Tiles are generally 1” (25 mm) and thinner, while pavers are typically 2” (51 mm) and greater.
Tiles are commonly installed on prepared indoor substrates such as concrete floors, prepared wood floor, or walls.
Pavers, unlike tiles, are typically used on both flexible and rigid exterior surface conditions where drainage and/or permeability is important. Flexible surfaces include compacted soils and graded aggregates, while rigid surfaces typically refer to concrete slabs.
