As the scorching summers approach, we brace ourselves for rising temperatures and the discomfort that comes with them. While air conditioning offers much-needed relief, it is not the ultimate solution due to the high energy bills associated with it.
This is where heat-proof tiles come in – a smart and efficient solution that allows you to maintain a cool and comfortable temperature indoors while helping you save on energy bills. Designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional tiles, these heat-reflective tiles are ideal for outdoor walls, terraces, bathrooms, and even kitchens.
So, if you’re planning a renovation or just curious about how these tiles work, here is all you need to know about heat-proof tiles:
Factors that Contribute to the Heat Resistance of a Tile
When it comes to heat-resistant tiles, their ability to withstand heat depends on a number of factors. Understanding these factors is crucial for choosing the right tile for a specific application. Here are the key factors that contribute to the heat resistance of a tile:
Tile Composition
Tile composition is a critical factor that determines a tile's heat-proof ability. Typically, these heat-proof tiles are made from materials like ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone, which are inherently heat-proof.
Ceramic and porcelain contain clay and mineral mixtures and are designed to endure moderate to high temperatures. However, porcelain is a little more heat-resistant than ceramic due to its denser composition.
Natural stone, on the other hand, is derived from various stone types such as granite, marble, and slate, and its heat-resistance can vary based on the type of stone. For instance, granite and slate are known for their exceptional ability to withstand heat.
Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process is another critical factor that influences the heat resistance of a tile. Tiles are typically fired in a Kiln at specific temperatures to vitrify the material, which makes them non-porous and durable. Porcelain tiles, for instance, undergo a high-temperature firing process, resulting in a denser, more heat-resistant tile compared to standard ceramic tiles.
The consistency of manufacturing processes and the rigorous quality control measures help ensure that the tiles meet the desired heat-proof standards. Tiles that are subjected to rigorous quality checks are more likely to maintain their integrity when exposed to heat over time.
Surface Finish
The surface finish, often achieved through glazing, also affects the tile’s ability to handle heat. Glazing is basically a protective coating over the tile’s surface that enhances its durability and resistance to moisture, stains, and heat. Glazed porcelain tiles are ideal for areas with heat exposure, as the glaze acts as a barrier against potential damage.
The choice between matt and glossy finishes also impacts the heat-resistance of a tile. Matte finishes are more heat-proof due to their low reflectivity, which assists in easy dissipation of heat. Glossy finishes, while offering amazing visual appeal, are not as heat-proof as matt due to their reflective nature, which can trap heat.
Popular Heat-Proof Tiles
Understanding the different heat reflective tile options is invaluable to choosing the right tile for your home. These tiles play a very crucial role in maintaining the aesthetics and functionality of spaces subjected to heat stress. The most popular heat-proof tiles for the roof and other areas are:
Ceramic Tiles
Manufactured from clay, minerals, and water, ceramic tiles are first moulded into tile shape by firing them at high temperatures. This firing process results in a hardened, non-porous material. The tiles are then often coated with glaze, which enhances their durability and appearance.
In terms of heat-proof features, ceramic tiles generally offer moderate heat resistance. However, at Hindware Italian Tiles, we have developed ceramic cool tiles called “ICY Bianco” that reflect and emit the sun's heat instead of absorbing it, offering superior heat resistance. These tiles have a Solar Reflective Index (SRI) value of 88, which means they reflect 88% of sunrays away from the surface, helping maintain comfortable temperatures indoors during hot summers.
Key benefits of ICY Bianco cool tiles include: -
These features make ICY Bianco cool tiles a smart, sustainable choice for modern homes and commercial spaces alike.
Porcelain Tiles
A subset of ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles are distinguished by their unique manufacturing process. They are made from a finer clay mixture, which is fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tiles, resulting in a denser, less-porous material.
In terms of heat-proof features, porcelain tiles offer superior heat proofing because of their lower water absorption rate and higher density. They can easily ensure higher temperatures, making them ideal heat-resistant tiles for roofs, terraces, and other outdoor areas that are subjected to heat stress.
Natural Stone Tiles
Natural stone tiles are sourced from different types of stones, including travertine, marble, slate, granite, limestone, etc. Each type of stone offers distinctive aesthetics and heat-proof properties. Generally, natural stone tiles offer remarkable heat-resistance properties. They can easily endure high temperatures without losing their structural integrity. Their capacity to quickly dissipate heat makes them ideal for external wall tiles and other outdoor areas.
The specific heat resistance property of natural stone can vary based on the type of stone, but some stones, like granite and slate, are particularly renowned for their heat-proofing properties.
Heat-Proof Tiles Application Areas
Heat-proof tiles offer a range of applications, offering both functionality and aesthetics. They are especially an indispensable tool for spaces exposed to a lot of heat. Here are some of the applications where heat-proof tiles shine:
Using heat-resistant tiles on terraces and patios is an ideal solution to keep your home cooler in summer. Also, the resistance of these tiles to temperature fluctuations, UV rays, and moisture ensures your terrace and patio remain not only stylish but also safe and long-lasting.
Besides terraces and roofs, heat-proof tiles are also ideal for a swimming pool deck. They help the deck remain cool under direct sunlight while also preventing slipping on the wet floor.
Pathways are naturally subjected to direct sunlight. Heat-resistant tiles can help reduce the surface temperature, making pathways comfortable to walk on, even in scorching summer heat.
As we conclude, it is clear that heat-proof tiles are an indispensable tool to keep your home cool and comfortable, even in scorching summers. Whether used in the kitchen, fireplaces, or terraces, heat-resistant tiles excel at withstanding high temperatures, offering safety, durability, and low maintenance.
At Hindware Italian Tiles, we offer an exquisite collection of high-quality tiles that offer the perfect combination of durability, functionality, and aesthetics. With competitive tile prices online and a range of options to choose from, we are the ultimate destination for transforming your home into luxurious havens.