The technology in tile manufacture is allowing suppliers to produce such authentic replicas of natural materials.  Tiles replicating marble, travertine, limestone and even metal are common place.  Replicas that reduce some of the drawbacks associated with the real thing.

One of the most unique lines we import at Kalafrana Ceramics are the “Timber Look” range of floor tiles from Spain.  This gives clients a sustainable alternative to timber flooring.  The look of timber with all the maintenance free and hardwearing benefits only tiles can offer. 

These remarkable products look like individual planks of timber.  They are glazed floor tiles either available in 15x45cm or 15x90cm(rectificated) formats.  As they are produced in a rectangular format, various laying patterns can be used – herring bone, basket weave, staggered joint, soldier pattern, etc.  Unlike other lines that use a square format tile, the rectangular size looks more like the real thing.
They are importantly an enviromentally friendly flooring solution.  Only natural clays are used, then fired in natural gas kilns. 

Clients that purchased these products ten or more years ago are amazed by its longevity.  As the “Timber Look” range are glazed products, they are hard wearing, require no sealing or ongoing up keep.    Making them perfect for and domestic or commercial application.  Matching grout colours are used to further enhance the look.
Clients are amazed how real they look, even on touch they still are suprised when told they are tiles.

In a lot of cases we do like having the real natural product.  It’s a case of balancing up what alternatives are out there thet give you the look you desire and the day to day practicality.