Nowhere in the flooring industry is the use of high tech, state-of-the-art production advancements more evident than in ceramic tile. It seems as though manufacturers can make finished products look and feel like anything they want, whether it be the visual appeal of slate or the earthy tones of limestone. The following focuses on some of the more upscale products several porcelain and ceramic tile manufacturers have recently developed.
Crossville
UltiMetal is a high-end product combining the durability of Crossville’s porcelain stone with the glitz of metaillic finishes, noted Laurie Lyza, director of marketing, “The field tile has an almost minimalist look, but with a subtle fabric texture. The mosaics and decos have bold geometric patterns and more metallic sheen for that really high-end look.
“What differentiates UltiMetal from other metal tile products is its functionality,” she explained, “in addition to its aesthetic appeal. It will not scratch, etch, or stain as many metals do, and it is rated for commercial use.
“The industry has received it very well and it’s being included in specs regularly,” said Lyza. “Professionals in the industry love it; it won the Best of NeoCon Gold award in its category and the Interior Design Best of Year award, voted on by design professionals.”
Through a fusion of technology and design, UltiMetal combines the texture and shine of a metallic micromesh with the durability of Crossville’s porcelain stone, she noted. Available in five solid metallic finishes: White, Silver, Grey, Black and Copper, and four rectified sizes: 6 x 24-, 12-, 12 x 24- and 24-inches, Ultimetal may be accented by boldly patterned 2 x 24- and 12 x 24-inch listellos, plus 2-inch patterned mixed mosaics, mounted on 12-inch sheets.