What Is a Full Body Tile? A Complete Guide for Home and Business Spaces
Full body tiles are a category of this product where the colour and material pattern carry throughout the body of the tile, unlike tiles where the design is mainly applied on the top layer.
They are primarily considered in commercial spaces, high-traffic zones, offices, showrooms, retail spaces and selected residential applications where the performance, appearance and long-term functionality are of key importance.
What Is a Full Body Tile?
Full body tile is a type of this product, the consistency of which is uniform throughout the volume of the tile, so the color and design are represented both on the surface and inside the structure.
This specification is particularly beneficial in zones where the tile might face frequent traffic or abrasion, however, the suitability of this category is primarily dictated by the technical specification of the product and the requirements of a given project.
How Are Full Body Tiles Made?
Full body tiles are manufactured with a specific combination of materials that become the core of a given product. During the production process, these materials are processed, pressed and fired with the use of specific equipment.
Since the material carries through the body of the product, the final appearance can be seamless on the surface and along the edge of the tile.
It is worth noting, that the manufacturing technology, the quality of materials, the pressing conditions and the firing regime can affect the characteristics of the tile. Explore Full Body Tiles
Key Benefits of Full Body Tiles
Consistent Material Throughout the Tile
The main benefit of a full body tile is the fact that the same material is used throughout the thickness of the tile.
This feature is particularly beneficial in conditions where the surface or the edges of the tile can be exposed, for example, during cutting or regular traffic.
Suitable for High-Traffic Areas
A full body tile can be considered in high-traffic areas such as commercial buildings, offices, showrooms, retail spaces and other similar zones based on the specification of a given product.
Durable Surface Option
Due to the aforementioned construction, full body tiles can be considered in applications that require a surface with excellent performance characteristics.
Professional and Modern Appearance
Full body tiles are offered in a variety of surface design, colours, size options and surface structures, so that it is possible to choose a product ideally suited for a given environment, be it more contemporary or utilitarian.
Where Can Full Body Tiles Be Used?
Full body tiles can be specified in a number of applications, including:
Commercial floors
Offices
Retail stores
Showrooms
Hospitality areas
Public spaces
High-traffic residential areas
Selected applications for wall tiling, if the product specification allows
The selection of a given product should always reflect the application suggested by the manufacturer and its technical specification. Explore Commercial Tiles
Full Body Tiles vs Other Tile Types
There are multiple categories of tiles, each with its unique characteristics and purposes.
While full body tiles have a consistent material composition throughout the body, glazed vitrified tiles (GVT) offer a wide range of surface patterns, colours and special effects.
Double charged vitrified tiles, on the other hand, utilise an additional layer of pigment that can be beneficial in applications where the surface is likely to be worn. Porcelain tiles, finally, are classified according to their water absorption, mechanical properties, format, surface and application.
As a result, there is no universal tile, but rather a set of solutions that should be chosen based on a site-specific evaluation.
How to Select the Most Appropriate Full Body Tiles?
Before selecting a full body tile, it is essential to consider the following criteria:
1. Application
It is essential to define whether the tile will be used in a floor, wall or another application.
2. Traffic Level
It is essential to define the level of foot traffic that a given space will be exposed to. For example, commercial areas and public spaces will have different requirements compared to a private residence.
3. Tile Size
Choose the tile format best suited for the area in which it will be used. Some tile formats provide continuity, some have been developed specifically for use in small or intricate installations.
4. Surface Finish
Specify the surface structure of the tile that would be suitable in a given environment.
5. Technical Specifications
Make sure to review the technical specification of a given product, its application, installation guidelines and maintenance requirements prior to finalising your choice.
Why Full Body Tiles Are Popular for Commercial Projects
Commercial buildings involve a high level of traffic, as well as regular reorganisation of furniture and general maintenance. In such conditions, the choice of a tile is not dictated solely by aesthetics.
Full body tiles, with their combination of material consistency, performance characteristics and design flexibility, can be beneficial in commercial floors, as well as other demanding environments where product specification allows.
Full Body Tiles for Modern Architecture
Modern architecture increasingly relies on utilitarian materials and minimalist design. Full body tiles can fit into this concept with their variety of formats, surface structures and colours.
They can be used to create an aesthetic continuity in a given space in projects that involve offices, showrooms, retail spaces and other applications, while still relying on a professional appearance.
Final Thoughts
A full body tile is the one that is made of the same material throughout the thickness of the tile. It is a product, the use of which is justified in commercial, high-traffic and some residential areas.
However, it is essential to keep in mind that the choice of a tile should not be driven by its appearance solely. With that in mind, the application, foot traffic, format, surface structure, technical specification and installation conditions should be taken into consideration.
For architects, designers, contractors and homeowners, this guide can serve as a useful guideline in selecting a full body tile that reflects the requirements of a given project. Explore Hawk Granito Tile Collections
