Revolutions in buildings and supplies, just like every facet of our lives are relative in any human setting. We naturally warm up and gain ultimate interests in things which do not only appeal to us physically, but that which has a practical and convenient bearing on our lives as a whole. We find confidence and convenience in things which complements us, what makes us feel useful and resourceful.

Housing in Africa has gone through different stages of change, from straw and mud homes, to concrete and now solely wood buildings (a new phenomenon in Africa, gaining fast grounds). Flooring in Africa has equally taken a new dimension on its own. From hard concrete flooring (which are still visibly seen in homes), to carpeted floors, wood panel flooring and the new buzz which is making waves in every home, offices, restaurants, hotels and schools.

Many have wondered the practicability and resilience of this seeming new entry in the building and construction industry. As stated earlier, we desire comfort and time saving ventures and ceramic tiles flooring seems to provide exactly that. Questions surrounding, when, what, how and whys of the ceramic tile invasion can only be assessed and judged based on its merits.

Ceramic and porcelain tiling has become a popular choice for most homeowners as it offers durable and reliable properties. The primary detail of ceramic tiling which makes it preferable is its ability not to retain dust and dirt residue as opposed to most flooring we have in the system. In addition, they do not require any extra polishing and cleaning to maintain their finish. Daily cleaning ensures its clean and pristine look. Comparing to carpets and concrete floorings which needs thorough scrubbing and cleaning. Hygienically, it doesn’t retain odor, fumes, and allergens which are quite pervasive with carpets and some wood floorings. An essential detail which a suitable flooring must have where hygiene is the hallmark, a case in point being restaurants.

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People have legitimate claim and may argue the slippery nature of ceramic tiling which are likely to injure and incapacitate people depending on the gravity of the situation. The truth is, there is that tendency and likelihood of that happening. However, there are slip and skid resistant tiling which prevents such situation from occurring. The level of slips and falls are relatively due to excessive exposure to spills and the need for a high level resistant tiling is imperative. Restaurants are likely to use such tiling due to the dynamics of their work.

Similarly, the color fast nature and inability to fade over a long period of time has played a key role in the choice and acceptance of ceramic tiling. Because the color is fired is not a tile clays body fading does not occur. Even in exposure to direct sunlight, it does not fade. Due to this resilience, building are now being tiled in the stead of painting as it is more economical.  Anti-stain attribute also makes it a safer option. Usually, glazed tiles and some unglazed tiles are stain resistant as it can be easy cleaned without putting a book to it.

Ceramic tiling is expected to stay for a long time and gain even wider coverage and usage rates due its unrivalled qualities. As to whether there will be another better or equally capable flooring to throw it out of the market remains to be seen. Until then, Africans are developing sentimental attachments to and savoring what it has to offer.  

 Ernest Pappoe -PE MEDIA

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