When decorating a home, many households opt for a half-package approach, where they purchase key materials like ceramic tiles, sanitary ware, and paint themselves. However, due to the information gap in the market, consumers often fall into traps when buying these products. Gaining some basic knowledge about purchasing can save time and effort while ensuring that you get genuine and high-quality items.
For example, when buying ceramic tiles, simply choosing a brand or color is not enough. To avoid being cheated, it's important to understand a few key points:
1. **Check the Store’s Legitimacy**
Some well-known brands may sell counterfeit products, or stores might not be authorized by the manufacturer but still sell old stock. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase, whether you're shopping at a local market or a large retail store.
2. **Inspect Product Packaging and Labels**
The packaging should include the factory name, address, product name, after-sales service number, specifications, quantity, trademark, production date, and standards followed. This helps avoid “three-no†products (no name, no address, no quality). For porcelain tiles, check for the CCC certification mark, and ensure the radionuclide levels meet category A requirements. For instance, the Gold Medal Tianwei Ceramics package includes detailed information along with certifications like ISO9001, ISO14001, and China Environmental Label.
3. **Evaluate the Tile’s Appearance**
High-quality tiles should have a smooth, delicate surface. Glossy tiles should be clear and bright, while matte or semi-matte ones should be soft yet reflective. Under good lighting, hold the tile 1 meter away to check for defects such as glaze imperfections, cracks, dirt, bubbles, spots, or bumps. Also, check if the size is standard using a caliper—irregular tiles may look uneven when laid. The pattern should be realistic and free of color inconsistencies or misalignment. The back of the tile should have clear markings and minimal glaze defects.
Take the "Glazed Cool Angel" tile as an example. Its surface is crystal clear, the texture is warm, and the polished finish is smooth and bright. The design is rich and vibrant, making it a great choice for any space.
4. **Test the Tile’s Density and Hardness**
Tap the tile lightly with your hand. A crisp sound indicates high density and hardness, which means better quality. If it sounds dull, it may not be properly fired. You can also scratch the glaze with a hard object—if it leaves marks, the quality is poor. Check for pinholes, as they can trap dirt over time.
5. **Check Water Absorption and Friction Coefficient**
Tiles with lower water absorption are more stable, especially in moist areas like bathrooms or kitchens. When you place a drop of water on the back of the tile, if it spreads slowly, it’s a sign of good quality. For interior walls, high water absorption tiles are suitable, but for floors, you need a higher friction coefficient to prevent slipping.
6. **Assess Tile Flatness**
Ensure the edges are straight for easier installation and a better visual result. Take four or more tiles from the box and place them on a flat surface. Check if they lie evenly without any gaps or warping. According to national standards, porcelain tiles should have a deformation deviation of 0.2% (max 2.0mm), while glazed tiles should not exceed 0.5%.
By paying attention to these details, you can make smarter choices and avoid common pitfalls when purchasing building materials. With a little knowledge, you can enjoy a smoother renovation process and a beautiful, long-lasting finished space.
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