Unglazed Tile Resists Persistent Food Stains

It is no particular problem removing stains from glazed ceramic tile, but the unglazed product has resisted the efforts of scientists seeking a satin-finish tile with stain-resistant properties.

Now comes Villeroy & Boch with the Super Ceram Titan series that resists staining by such common materials as inks, dyes, lipstick, nail polish, oils and grease--materials that are common in homes, restaurants and offices.

The satin surface of the Titan, available in six colors in the 8-by-8-inch size, makes it ideal for kitchens, dens, bathrooms, patios and commercial uses both inside and out, according to a spokeswoman for the Mettlach, West Germany-based firm that claims to be the world’s largest ceramics producer.

Many decorators and homeowners prefer the look of unglazed tile and the finish certainly makes it less slippery than the glazed variety when it is wet. Super Ceram Titan comes with cove base trim, just like the glazed tiles from the firm.

Villeroy & Boch, founded in 1748, is also a manufacturer of high-style bathroom and kitchen ceramic fixtures. The firm’s lines of ceramic tiles and the fixtures are on display at a factory showroom at 3111 E. Mira Loma Ave., Anaheim.

The Titan series is available at California Architectural Ceramics, 15132 Raymer St., Van Nuys and 1620 E. Ball Road, Anaheim; Ceramic Tile Center, 5210 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach and 19370 Van Ness Ave., Torrance; Thousand Oaks Tile, 11 E. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks; Morena Tile, 1065 W. Morena Blvd., San Diego (also other locations in San Diego County) and other dealers throughout the state. Villeroy & Boch in Anaheim can supply customers with the names of convenient retail outlets.

Now that the firm’s scientists have developed a stain-resistant unglazed ceramic tile, maybe they can start work on a grout that performs just as well. Grouting is the weak link in the process, collecting dirt and providing a breeding ground for mold and mildew.