Glossary

Confused about 'rectification', or unfamiliar with terms like 'back buttering'? Whatever your existing knowledge, this is a layman-friendly guide to all terms tiling related.

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Kk - Ll

Hard Water

Water with a high mineral content, typically comprising calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) metal cations. May also contain other dissolved compounds such as bicarbonates and sulphates. Where a swimming pool’s water is hard, for example, or can be maintained at a level over 200mg/ litre expressed as CaCO3, cementitious grouts modified with polymers are generally suitable.

Honed

A machine process which results in a smooth, matt surface.

Hygroscopic

Materials that attract water molecules from the surrounding atmosphere.

H-I

Ink-Jet

A term that refers to the print or pattern on the tile which has been applied using an ink-jet printer.

Insert Tile

A decorative tile used in isolation within a plane of field tiles to enhance the appearance of a wall or floor.

Insolation Joint

A gap between adjoining parts of a concrete structure, usually a wall or other vertical plane, at a point designed to minimise interference with the structure’s performance but which allows relative movement.