While different varieties of ceramic tile share common characteristics, there can also be quite a bit of variation in everything from a tile's density to its slip resistance to its shade uniformity.
While all ceramic tiles are essentially made of the same ingredients, the quality and color of those ingredients can make a dramatic difference in the price. For example, to make a tile with a pure white body requires white clay, which is much harder to find than the red or beige clay found in most tiles.
The different grades of ceramic tiles – Grade 1 are usually placed on walls, grade 2 are usually for homes flooring; grade 3 is for light to moderate foot traffic; grade 4 is usually for commercial use; grade 5 is for heavy foot traffic.
The best way to check the quality of ceramic tiles is to put them on a levelled surface. If the tiles have some curvature or are warped, they won't lie flat. Measure the diagonals of ceramic tiles. They should be of the exact same length.
Porcelain tiles typically have a higher level of scratch resistance than ceramic tiles, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. A-grade porcelain tile and B-grade porcelain tile may offer different levels of scratch resistance, so it is important to compare the two before making your final decision.
Yes, a higher quality tile is usually more expensive. But it could have a high quality appearance, higher quality production standards, or a higher durability rating.
1. Lower quality materials: The tiles may be made from lower quality materials, which can affect their durability and longevity. 2. Mass production: The tiles may be produced on a large scale, which can lower the cost per unit.
Ceramic tile grades are used to measure a tile's durability and resistance to scratches. Known as the Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) rating system, used for both ceramic and porcelain tiles, this test was created in order to efficiently categorise and grade the ceramic and porcelain tiles available on the market.
Durability: The density of porcelain tile makes it more durable than ceramic tile while being less subject to wear and tear. This makes it more suitable for commercial use as well as in the home. Water Resistance: Porcelain tile is almost impervious to water compared to ceramic tile.
Grade 1 tiles aren't durable enough for flooring; they're more suited for wall applications. Grade 2 tiles are fine for rooms that get light traffic, such as bathroom floors that mostly see bare or stocking feet, but they're generally not strong enough for kitchens and other traffic-heavy areas.
In most cases, porcelain ceramic tiles are denser and stronger than their non-porcelain counterparts. This is because ceramic tiles are manufactured from clay fired in a kiln. With the exception of terra-cotta, most tiles made from non-porcelain ceramic are finished with a glaze.
Ceramic tile is graded from 1 to 5, with 5 being the longest wearing tiles. Grade 1 tiles are the weakest, with the best application as wall tiles.
Ceramic tiles are extremely hard. While the hardness of ceramic is considered to be an added value, as it makes them easier to clean and maintain, there is also a downside. The hardness makes it uncomfortable to stand on them, while the kitchen is an area where the user has to stand for a prolonged period.
You might want a thicker, more durable tile for a floor with high traffic, while a thinner, lighter porcelain tile is better suited for wall application. The least durable type of porcelain tile, Grade 1 tile is intended for use on walls only. It is not recommended for floors or countertops.
There are cases when laying tile without grout will probably leave the job looking a lot better. But here's the thing: if you want the job to last, then you need to use grout. Groutless tile has a higher chance of breaking, meaning that you would need to resume the work.
Ceramic and vitrified tiles with a rating of 0.42 are the most popular and recommended for bathroom floors. Because of the excellent grip, and its seaming offers for both wet and dry feet, mosaic design tiles are frequently used for bathroom floors.
Tile Thickness
The vast majority of porcelain tiles are 6mm to 10mm thick and a tile in this range will serve most purposes. Wall tiles typically range from 6 to 10mm thick.
The large surface area makes the space look cleaner, and avoids the checkerboard look of regular sized tiles. Large format tiles can be used both for traditional style bathrooms and kitchens and more modern sleek styles too. They are good for a minimalist streamlined look, and add a timeless accent to your room.
– Simply put: no! Among tile options, porcelain stands out as a very strong and durable choice.
Grade. Grade is the numerical ranking that reflects tile quality. Grade 1: Highest quality. Recommended for walls or floors. Grade 2: Similar to Grade 1, but with slight imperfections.
Porcelain tiles are one of the most practically designed tiles that are not strong but aesthetically perfect. They do not chip easily and the cases of such damage, if any, are very rare and most can be avoided with extra care.