(ARA) - With the growing attention to sustainable building, allergies and the fast pace of life, ceramic tile can offer the look and feel of stone and wood without all of the concern. Stone and wood inspired ceramic tile is ideal for those who want the aesthetics and charm of the natural element but also want the ease of care, durability, long life and germ resistance that tile offers.

Why choose ceramic tile? It's one of the most hygienic materials on the market, is durable and easy to maintain. Ceramic tiles are made from chemically inert materials that inhibit the growth of mold, mildew, fungus and other organisms. They are resistant to UV rays, corrosion and acids as well as fire. The tiles require little or no maintenance and are cleaned easily with just hot water; a great advantage in urban settings.

Spanish tile manufacturers pay close attention to every design detail, including texture, joints and finishes, with extra attention to graining, lifelike veining and shading.

"Spanish ceramic tile manufacturers have invested tremendous time and effort in developing techniques to achieve pattern variations and shading. These techniques make nature-inspired ceramic tile more believable by a sharper focus on texture," said Javier Soriano, director of Foreign Trade and Export Promotion for ASCER, the Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers' Association.

Benefits of stone-inspired ceramic tile

You can use stone-look ceramic tile in spaces where real stone wouldn't work because of maintenance, installation or weight. Many natural stones require maintenance. Occasionally, they need to be deep cleaned and most require a penetrating sealer that will need to be reapplied periodically. Stone will stain if some common household products, including vinegar, ketchup, mustard, fruit juice, wine and even ice water, come in contact with it; glazed ceramic will not stain. Natural stone installation can be labor intensive because the stones tend to be uneven in size, shape and thickness and must be laid out before they are set. Ceramic tiles are uniform and can be set easily.

Add an unexpected design to the bath: use stone inspired tiles in the shower. Put it on the countertops in your kitchen -- indoor or out! And, what about your library, den or son's room? Tile is a great material -- either on the floor or walls -- for a child's room. It's a great way to make the room grow with your child. By adding a rug or two, the room can instantly go from child to teenager.

Spanish manufacturers are offering ceramic stone looks in just about any type of stone including volcanic rock, river stone, granite, slate, sandstone and marble. The Rock and Rock Collection from Roca even has stone-inspired tile that has a carved relief surface. Other stone-inspired series from Spanish manufacturers include: Muro from Cerypsa, a rough stone look suitable for exterior uses; Stone from Dune, a tumbled limestone look; and Strato from Exagres, inspired by slate.

Benefits of wood-inspired ceramic tile

Wood-inspired ceramic tile is ideal for those who like the warm glow and charm of wood but want the ease of care, durability, long life and germ and insect resistance that tile offers.

In the Northeast, where wood is very popular, ceramic tile may make more sense in certain applications such as a mudroom, entrance hall, or bathroom. Wood can be more expensive and will require periodic refinishing to keep it looking its best. As an added benefit, ceramic tile is an excellent heat conductor that maintains its temperature when used with radiant heating systems.

In the South, where moisture is an issue, wood-inspired ceramic is perfect. The homeowner can have the desired wood look without having to worry about warping, shifting, insects or refinishing. Also, sunlight isn't an issue with tile but it can damage wood.

Wood inspired tiles from Tile of Spain branded manufacturers are an environmentally conscious way of attaining exotic wood looks such as wenge and merbau as well as more common species, oak, maple and beech. The new wood-inspired ceramic tile is so close to the original that to see it, touch it or even to walk on it will make you question whether it is wood or ceramic.

The Habitaria Series from Azulev offers the colors wenge, natural cerezo and roble. Special pieces including skirting, borders and tacos are also available. This tile can be used on walls and floors.

When considering using stone or wood for your home, consider ceramic tile that is inspired by these materials. Ceramic tile offers unique benefits to make your life and family more comfortable. Try Tile of Spain branded tile -- you'll be hooked on the benefits and the style.

For more information about tile from Spain, visit www.spaintiles.info or call (305) 446-4387.