As summer approaches, the hunt for ways to stay cool intensifies. While cranking up the AC might seem like the most immediate solution, it’s not always the most sustainable or cost-effective. But what if your flooring could be part of the cooling equation? Believe it or not, certain tiles can help regulate indoor temperatures, making your home feel refreshingly comfortable even during scorching days.

Beyond the Usual Suspects: Exploring the Science of Cool Tiles

Most blogs tout porcelain and ceramic tiles as the go-to choices for cool flooring. While these are indeed excellent options due to their low heat absorption and high thermal conductivity (meaning they readily transfer heat away from your feet), there’s more to the story than meets the eye. Let’s delve deeper into the science behind cool tiles:

Solar Reflectance Index (SRI): 

This index, ranging from 0 to 100, measures a material’s ability to reflect sunlight and solar heat. Higher SRI values indicate cooler surfaces. Porcelain and ceramic tiles typically boast SRIs of 60 or above, making them effective heat deflectors.
Emissivity: This property determines how well a material radiates heat it absorbs. Tiles with high emissivity, like terracotta or slate (emissivity of 0.9), efficiently release absorbed heat back into the environment, keeping the surface cooler.

Thermal Mass: 

This refers to a material’s ability to store heat. While often associated with insulation, it can also play a role in cooling. Materials with high thermal mass, like granite or concrete tiles, absorb and store heat during the day, releasing it slowly at night, creating a more balanced temperature cycle.

Unconventional Cool: Exploring Unique Tile Options

Now, let’s move beyond the usual suspects and explore some unique tile options that might surprise you:

Salvaged or Reclaimed Tiles: 

Reclaimed terracotta, slate, or even concrete tiles often have naturally weathered surfaces with higher emissivity, making them excellent heat radiators. Plus, they add a touch of rustic charm to your space.

Encaustic Cement Tiles: 

These colorful tiles, popular in Morocco and Europe, are made from pigmented cement and often feature intricate patterns. They offer high thermal mass and come in various light-reflecting colors, making them a visually and thermally appealing choice.

Limestone Tiles:

 Often overlooked, limestone boasts good thermal mass and naturally light color, reflecting heat effectively. Opt for tumbled or brushed finishes for a more textured, cooler feel underfoot.
Remember, it’s not just about the tiles:

While tiles play a crucial role, remember that a holistic approach is key to cool flooring:

Strategic Placement: Install cool tiles in areas with direct sunlight or high foot traffic, where heat gain is highest.

Rugs and Runners: Strategically placed rugs, especially those made from natural fibers like jute or sisal, can add insulation and provide pockets of cooler surfaces.

Underfloor Cooling Systems: Consider pairing your cool tiles with an underfloor cooling system for optimal comfort and energy efficiency.

By understanding the science behind cool tiles and exploring unique options, you can create a comfortable and stylish haven that beats the heat, even without cranking up the AC. So, ditch the one-size-fits-all approach and embrace the cool possibilities that tiles offer!

Cool Flooring Revelations: Empire Surface Redefines Comfort and Style with Unique Tile Innovations

Empire Surface, a distinguished tile manufacturer and exporter, takes pride in offering innovative solutions for cool and stylish flooring. With a keen understanding of the science behind cool tiles, they go beyond the conventional options, presenting a range of materials that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of spaces but also contribute to temperature regulation. Empire Surface’s commitment to quality is evident in its selection of tiles, including reclaimed and unique options like encaustic cement and limestone tiles. Their emphasis on a holistic approach, considering factors like solar reflectance index, emissivity, and thermal mass, sets them apart. For those seeking a balance between functionality and aesthetics, Empire Surface provides a refreshing perspective on creating comfortable havens that beat the heat without compromising style.