Tile Glossary

Glossary of Tile Terms

Acrylic Impregnated: Wood treated with acrylic to enhance hardness and durability.

Better: Oak with smaller knots and darker graining.

Buckle: Wood planks that warp due to increased humidity.

Clear: Premium oak with no blemishes or knots.

Janka Hardness Test: Measures the force needed to embed a steel ball halfway into wood.

Number 1 Common: Oak with more knots and darker graining.

Number 2 Common: Lower grade oak with even more knots and graining.

Rotary Cut: Cutting method for bold grain patterns.

Select: Oak with smaller knots and lighter graining.

Sliced Cut: Cutting method for uniform patterns.

Stapled Down: Installation method using staples to attach wood flooring to the subfloor.

Additional Tile Terms

Tile Installation: The process of placing and adhering tiles to a surface.

Sweeping or Vacuuming: Regular maintenance to remove dirt and debris.

Grout Haze Remover: A product used to clean grout residue from tile surfaces.

Grout Joints: The spaces between tiles filled with grout.

Cleaning Solution: A liquid used to clean tiles, ideally pH-neutral.

Neutral pH: A balanced pH level, neither acidic nor alkaline, safe for cleaning tiles.

Cleaning Agents: Substances used to remove dirt and stains from tiles.

White Nylon Scrub Pad: A non-abrasive pad used for cleaning tiles.

Tile and Grout Cleaner: A specialized cleaner for removing dirt and stains from tiles and grout.

Soap Scum Body Oil: Residue that can build up on bathroom tiles, requiring regular cleaning.

Heavy Duty Grout: Grout designed for high-traffic or heavily used areas.

Clean Water and Dry: Rinsing tiles with clean water and drying them to prevent streaks and water spots.

Porcelain Tile Floor: A type of tile known for its durability and water resistance.

Steel Wool: A cleaning tool that should be avoided on tile surfaces to prevent scratching.

Grout Cleaning: The process of cleaning the grout between tiles to maintain appearance and hygiene.

Rinse Thoroughly with Clean Water: Essential step after cleaning to remove any remaining cleaning solution or residue.

Ceramic Tile: A common type of tile known for its versatility and ease of maintenance.

Unglazed Tile: Tiles that are not coated with a glaze, typically more slip-resistant and used in areas like laundry rooms and outdoor spaces.

Natural Stone Products: Tiles made from natural stone such as marble, granite, or slate, offering unique beauty and texture.

For a comprehensive understanding of these terms and more, visit Grand Floors & More