When it comes to outdoor home improvements, decking is always a popular choice. But have you ever considered rectified paving tiles? These meticulously machine-finished tiles offer a unique and modern solution with numerous advantages. In this detailed guide, we’ll delve into the world of rectified tiles, exploring their benefits, installation process, and maintenance tips.
Understanding Rectified Tiles
Rectified tiles are a type of tile that has been machine-finished to achieve faultless edges and a perfectly precise right-angle finish. Unlike regular tiles with somewhat irregular edges, rectified tiles boast a near-identical finish in terms of dimensions, creating an almost seamless aesthetic appearance once laid.
The Making of Rectified Tiles
Rectified tiles start their journey the same way as any other tile. They’re initially pressed into a mould and then fired at high temperatures in a kiln. However, to achieve their precision, these tiles are cut to an exact size using specialist machinery such as a laser or diamond saw tip, a process known as ‘rectifying’. The result is a tile with identical dimensions and a flawless finish.
The Advantages of Rectified Tiles
Rectified tiles offer numerous benefits, making them an excellent choice for modern outdoor spaces.
Consistent Design and Proportions
The primary advantage of rectified tiles is their consistent design and exact proportions. These allow them to be laid tightly together with as little as 1.5mm grout width. The result is an unwavering design that appears virtually uninterrupted from tile to tile, providing an overall pattern consistency that’s second to none.
Easy Installation Over Existing Surfaces
Rectified tiles can be installed over existing surfaces, making them a perfect choice for giving your outdoor spaces a quick facelift. Balconies, patios, decks, terraces, and even compacted gravel and concrete walkways can be upgraded with rectified tiles.
Attractive Designs and Patterns
With rectified tiles, you can create unique designs and patterns. Mix and match different tiles to create distinct areas on your surface for both aesthetic and functional appeal.
Easy to Change Designs
Tired of your current design? With rectified tiles, you can easily change the layout and placement for a fresh new look.
Low Maintenance
Rectified tiles require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning to ensure maximum air and water flow is usually enough to keep them in perfect condition.
Installing Rectified Tiles: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before we dive into the installation process, it’s important to note that rectified tiles need a smooth and level substrate to achieve that elusive ‘perfect finish’. Placement of rectified tiles on an uneven surface can result in an uneven lay and cause varying gaps as a result.
Step 1: Preparing the Surface
The first step in installing rectified tiles is to prepare the surface. Ensure that the area is level and free of any debris, dirt, or dust. Any large cracks should be filled, and the surface should be waterproofed for an extra layer of protection.
Step 2: Placement of Tiles
Next, decide on the placement of the tiles to allow for any patterns to be followed or cuts required. Because of their exact dimensions, rectified tiles should be laid in a precise grid-like pattern.
Step 3: Laying the Tiles
When laying the tiles, aim for a grout width as little as 1.5mm. This will ensure an almost seamless aesthetic appearance once the tiles are laid. Remember, even though they’re easy to install, rectified tiles still require precision and care during the installation process.
Maintaining Your Rectified Tiles
Rectified tiles are not only stylish and easy to install, but they’re also easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner suitable for tiled surfaces is enough to keep them looking great. Remember to clean the grout lines as well, although with such small grout lines this won’t take you very long!
Conclusion: Are Rectified Tiles Right for You?
With their seamless design, easy installation, and low maintenance, rectified tiles are an excellent choice for modern and stylish outdoor spaces. They offer a unique solution for decking and other outdoor areas, providing a clean and contemporary aesthetic that’s hard to achieve with other types of tiles.
Rectified tiles are more than just a home improvement trend; they’re a long-term investment in the aesthetic and value of your home. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your patio, deck, or balcony, rectified tiles offer a stylish and practical solution that will stand the test of time.
For more information on rectified tiles or to explore our range, contact us today. We’re always here to help you find the perfect solution for your outdoor spaces.