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Porcelain tiles vs Ceramic TilesPremium porcelain tiles are harder than ceramic tiles.Porcelain tiles are more suitable for areas of high traffic.Porcelain tiles absorb less moisture than ceramic tiles.Porcelain tiles are more likely to survive a frost; thus, most of them are suitable for use on outdoor patios.Ceramic tiles (which have a higher moisture content) will be subject to the forces of freeze / thaw on Winter nights if installed outside; thus, they will crack during a cold snap.Porcelain tiles are far less likely to crack or fail when installed over a wooden substrate, for example a tongue and groove floor, where there may be a lot of movement as people walk across the floor.Most porcelain tiles are made with floors in mind. However, all tiles can be used on walls, so it’s perfectly acceptable to use porcelain tiles on bathroom walls for example. This is often done with tiles that are rectangular, such as 30 x 60 cm sizes.Why are Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles Different?Porcelain tiles have extra compounds added to the clay during production, and are composed of finer, more refined sands such as kaolin clays, feldspars, and silica. The resulting mixture is denser and less porous than the clay used for ceramic tiles.Porcelain tiles are fired at a much higher temperature and at greater pressure during the production process. And often, they are fired for a longer period of time than ceramic. This removes almost all the natural water content.To be classified as a porcelain tile according to ASTM standard C373, a tile may not absorb more than 0.5% of its weight in water:Leave a tile in a bucket of water for a day, and then weigh it.If the weight has increased by more than 0.5%, then it does not qualify as a porcelain tile. Note that in this example, the water is being absorbed by the body of the tile, and not through the top surface, as this is glazed and is practically impervious.Porcelain tiles come in three styles:Glazed porcelain tiles have had a glaze applied to the tile face. This glaze is a type of liquefied glass which has been baked onto the face of the tile in a kiln during the manufacturing process. The glaze is impervious. It will usually contain an artistic design or colour(s). The characteristics of the glaze are the same as those of a ceramic tile. The characteristics of the body (or “biscuit”) of the tile are the same as a through-body porcelain tile.Through-body porcelain tiles have not had a glaze added. The colour or design that is presented runs right through the tile (or biscuit). Being made of porcelain, these tiles are also practically impervious, as porcelain absorbs less than 0.5% of its bodyweight in liquid. Unglazed tiles are usually matt in appearance.Polished porcelain tiles start off life as unglazed porcelain tiles. An industrial scale buffer then polishes them to a high sheen. This produces a tile face with a highly reflective, mirror-like surface. But note that no glaze (liquefied glass coating) has been added.Are Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles Porous?Most ceramic tiles have a glaze on their top face. The glaze is similar to a liquid glass that has been fused onto the biscuit, and as you know with a glass window, water does not penetrate glass. The biscuit itself is porous (i.e. it can absorb water), but the biscuit would never be exposed to water in a practical application. Once installed correctly, and with grout (which is virtually impervious), glazed ceramic tiles are perfectly suited to bathroom applications.The biscuit of a porcelain tile, by comparison, absorbs virtually no water. If you hold a porcelain tile upside-down in your hand and pour water onto the back of it (the rear is not glazed), the water will simply run off it.  Thus, you may be surprised to read that it's also possible to get unglazed ceramic tiles. These are somewhat of a speciality, such as terracotta. As you can guess from the above information, they would have to be sealed prior to use, as their surface is porous. Are Porcelain Tiles Better than Ceramic Tiles?It all sounds like ceramic is an inferior product to porcelain. This is not true; it's simply a different product.Cost:Ceramic is usually significantly cheaper than porcelain. The raw materials, production costs, and transport costs (ceramic is lighter) are all lower. On average, porcelain is £3 - £5 more per square metre than ceramic. On a bathroom wall, where there is no need for extra strength, a ceramic tile performs as well as its porcelain counterpart. Indeed, your tiler will be pleased when it comes to drilling holes to hang showers, mirrors, and accessories - it's far easier to drill through ceramic than porcelain.When tiling over a screed or smooth concrete floor at home, there is no difference between having ceramic or porcelain floor tiles. You should choose the design you prefer the most and go with it. For an upstairs bathroom floor, where it's more likely to receive regular shoes or slippers rather than football boots, a ceramic floor tile will be fine.DIY Installation:If you're considering installing tiles yourself, the less dense ceramic will be much easier to cut using a wet tile saw or snap tile cutter. In fact, cutting porcelain would only be recommended for the more experienced DIY'er. And even if a professional is installing tiles, ceramic might be the better choice if the tiles will not have to withstand heavy traffic, and the tiles have to be cut around a multitude of unusual shapes and corners during installation.Underfloor Heating:Underfloor heating or hydronic heating coils can be used underneath both ceramic and porcelain tiles.Rectified Tiles:Both ceramic and porcelain tiles can be rectified after production; although in practice, it is usually only porcelain tiles that are sold in a rectified form.

Setting StandardsThe International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) have set the norms and testing methods applicable to ceramic tiles, under file number IS0 10545. These standards mean that tiles can be tested for different properties, and subsequently sorted into different rating categories. For example, there are strength tests and acid resistance tests.These tests are carried out independently of the ceramic tile manufacturers. Having an internationally agreed set of standards is clearly for the benefit of retailers and consumers, as well as architects, building specifiers, or indeed anyone who requires their choice of tile to perform to a specific predetermined level.Having the ISO norm is also useful when comparing products with regards to price, as not every tile will possess the exact same characteristics as the next. A like-for-like evaluation is important in many circumstances. Why an Abrasion Test?One of these tests concerns how a tile performs under abrasion – as this will dictate the suitability of a tile for certain applications. The surface quality of a tile required for a busy shop floor or hotel lobby will be higher than that needed for a wall in a domestic kitchen or bathroom.These high traffic areas will be subjected to greater levels of footfall, weight, and perhaps other stresses such as heavy cleaning machinery. All these forces greatly increase the amount of abrasion a tile is subjected to during its lifetime.A tile made only for a bathroom wall, for obvious reasons, will be subjected to no such trauma. Indeed, if such a tile was to be installed on the floor of a supermarket, for example, it would not last any significant time at all.It makes sense therefore not only to produce porcelain tiles that are suitable for different applications, but to also have them independently verified that they meet a specific standard.The Test ItselfThere is a test method described under the ISO which outlines the relevant procedure to be used when testing glazed tiles for resistance to abrasion. A machine, such as the one shown in this photo, rotates cylinders over a section of the tile which has been covered with an abrasive substance (often white aluminium oxide) and a collection of steel balls, which vary in size between 1mm and 5mm in diameter.Combined with relevant force, this is deemed to replicate the wear and tear that a grey floor tile would naturally experience when installed. That is pretty much the mechanical aspect of the test.This procedure is performed on up to a dozen different parts of one tile, which will have been cut up into small segments. Doing this allows the testers to see the results on different parts of the same tile, which may have different coloured print or patterns on it.Test Results and MeaningAfter a certain number of rotations of these cylinders, the tile will begin to fail. That is to say, under human visual inspection with controlled lighting, it will be possible to determine if the tile has changed appearance.  The number of rotations a tile is subjected to before it fails determines its classification on a scale of 0 to 5, also known as the PEI scale.If the tile fails (changes appearance) before 100 revolutions, it is classified at “0”, meaning it is only suitable for use as a wall tile. Remember that the abrasion test is only relevant to floor tiles. If a factory is making a tile that they intend only for use on wall, they will not send samples for abrasion testing.White Wall TilesIf the tile passes 100 revolutions but does not make it to 150, it is classed as Group I, which deems it suitable only for areas of very light traffic, where shoes are unlikely to be used, such as an upstairs’ ensuite. The surface of the tile could be easily marked or scratched by only a small amount of harsh treatment.The process continues up to Group 5, where the tiles still perform in excess of 12,000 revolutions. In fact at that stage, to qualify for group V classification, such tiles are subjected to a separate stain test under another part of the ISO norm.Floor Tiles on a Shop FloorTraditionally, very dark colours do not perform as well as their lighter counterparts from the same range, and it is often the case that they end up with a lower grade. Almost all the floor tiles are Class IV. We do have a couple of Class V’s, including classic white square tiles, which will take on pretty much anything that is thrown at them.To Wrap Up:The abrasion resistance of a tile is important, especially when choosing for an area of high traffic. The International Standards Organisation ensures that the characteristics of tiles are independently verified before they receive a rating certificate.

If you're thinking of buying tiles, if you're just looking for more general information on wall and floor tiles, then you need to know something about ceramic tiles.1. I know nothing about tiles. Can you explain the different types?2. Why should I use tiles?3. What about non-slip tiles?4. Can you tell me about natural stone tiles?5. What size tile should I use?1. I Know Nothing About Tiles. Can You Explain the Different Types?Wall Tiles Vs Floor Tiles:Tiles produced exclusively for walls are not intended to be load bearing. They are often lighter and thinner than gray floor tiles. The glazes used in the manufacture of a wall tile are also different, and are not designed to resist the abrasive forces from foot traffic. Wall tiles must only be used on walls.Floor tiles are suitable for both floors and walls. It’s increasingly more popular to use them on bathroom walls, especially the rectangular ones. They’re up to 20% heavier than wall tiles, so it’s important that your tiler has verified the walls are sturdy enough to support their weight.In summary: Do not put wall tiles on a floor, but floor tiles can go on either.Porcelain Tiles Vs Ceramic Tiles:Ceramic (or non-porcelain) tiles are usually produced by firing red or white clay in a kiln, and coating with a durable glaze which carries the colour and pattern. These tiles can be used on walls or floors. They are not as hard as porcelain, and can therefore be cut easier. The tiles can be used in areas of light to moderate traffic, such as domestic kitchen and bathroom floors, and any walls. They tend to absorb water, relatively speaking, which means they don't have the frost-resistance of porcelain and therefore are not suitable for outdoor use.Premium porcelain tiles are produced from a finer, denser, more impervious clay then ceramic. They’re fired at higher temperature, making them stronger, harder and more damage resistant than non-porcelain ceramic tiles. They usually have a lower water absorption rate, which often makes them frost resistant or frost-proof. They’re suitable for almost any domestic application, both on walls and floors, and even in commercial settings where there is light traffic. In summary: ceramic tiles are not suitable outdoors, but both porcelain and ceramic are suitable for all other domestic applications.2. Why Should I Use Tiles?Practicality: Ceramic tiles are a versatile and down-to-earth home improvement technology. They’re easy to maintain, and help provide a water-proof barrier to your bathroom walls.Durability: Do it once; do it right. Archaeologists have uncovered glazed tiles originally laid around 1,500BC. It proves that if you choose your tile wisely, there’s no reason your tiled area shouldn’t last for generations. Tiles are hardwearing, easily maintained, and not susceptible to fading from UV light.Cleanliness: Tiles have long been recommended in preference to carpet to help combat dust allergies and asthma.Design: Ceramic tiles should become an integral part of your home. Modern patterns and sizes will keep your home up-to-date with current trends, and careful selection will enhance and protect your home and add to its capital value.3. What About Non-Slip Tiles?“Non-Slip” is something of a misnomer when it comes to describing a tile. Put simply, no tile can be guaranteed to be slip-proof. In the UK and Ireland, we use a slip rating system known as R-Ratings, with the results of any particular tile ranging between R-9 and R-13. A higher rating indicates a more slip-resistant tile. There’s no applicable building regulation at the moment for slip-resistance. Tiles with any given “R” rating do not have to be used in any particular area, but the higher ones, in particular R-11 and higher, are definitely recommended for disabled-access bathrooms and public areas. Often, an architect will nominate a minimum rating if he or she is detailing the specification on a project.Obviously a polished porcelain or gloss finish tile is slippery than a natural finish porcelain or a matt glazed tile. Because any floor tile may be used on any indoor floor, and without a building regulation, it’s up to the consumer to choose an appropriate product in terms of performance and design, based on the practical information available. Use of our sample service allows you to feel in your hand the grip qualities of any particular tile. The main point to remember is that ALL floor surfaces are slippery when wet, including tiles. Tile is not in a position to offer a slip-resistant or slip-proof guarantee, either expressed or implied.In summary: Tiles have non-slip ratings. The higher the rating, the better grip it will provide. There’s no way of providing a 100% guarantee that a tile will be slip-proof, but some are far more suitable than others.4. Can You Tell Me About Natural Stone Tiles?Overland Ceramics offers a range of travertine tiles and also mosaics, which incorporate pieces of travertine, limestone, granite, and other stones.For the most part, these tiles differ little in terms of installation to their ceramic and porcelain counterparts. However:Large thick slabs of stone are heavy, so please ensure you have strong, sturdy walls if you intend to install them in a bathroom. Your tiler will be able to gauge the suitability of stone for a bathroom wall.Most large stone tiles will need to be cut using electrical power tools. This can be messy and should be done outdoors, taking all necessary safety precautions.All stone (even polished) is porous. It’s imperative that it’s sealed prior to the completion of the installation work. Please use our water-based Stone and Grout Protector immediately after fitting any of our stone products. This will hugely contribute to reductions in staining and absorption of water.Overland Ceramics recommends that only a white adhesive is used when laying natural stone. This helps resist any staining if the stone is exceptionally porous - the pigments in a grey adhesive can creep towards the surface by capillary action and cause discolouration.5. What Size Tile Should I Use?The size of ceramic tile you choose can have as much an effect on the appearance of your project as the design and finish. It usually comes down to personal preference, and the trend these days is towards larger tiles. However, there are a couple of points to bear in mind:Larger tiles will leave a room with less grout lines, thus creating a more streamlined look to a room. It’s common now to use large tiles in some of the smaller rooms in the house. It’s generally agreed that a large tile makes a small area look bigger.If large tiles are used in a very tight area (e.g. a 1.5 sqm floor in an en suite) it might be the case that almost every tile would end up being cut. We would not recommend installing a 60 x 60cm tile, five tiles of which would be needed, in such a space. The same applies to bathroom walls – it doesn’t make sense to put a 75 cm wide tile in a shower cubicle that is only 80cm wide.Note that larger tiles tend to need more adhesive for installation. This is because such tiles cannot follow the minor undulations in your walls and floors in the same way that small tiles can. Because of this, all the tiles need to be raised up slightly to meet the highest point, requiring extra adhesive beneath,In summary: Tile size is a personal choice. Just be mindful that the tile is not so big that it will overwhelm a small space.

What is Slip Resistance?Of all the characteristics of premium porcelain tile, the one that causes the most confusion by far is that of slip resistance. There are a number of reasons for this:1. Consumers, and indeed many builders and architects, do not realise that ceramic tiles which have had their slip resistance tested are awarded a grade, score or rating. In the absence of this knowledge, it is therefore presumed by many people that a floor tile is simply either anti-slip or not, when in reality this is not a binary situation. Different tiles have different degrees of resistance, and this will be reflected in their rating. From that perspective, there is no such thing as an “anti-slip” tile, as every tile will fall into one of the rating categories.2. While most other properties of a ceramic floor tile, such as abrasion resistance or strength, have an internationally agreed upon method of testing, none exist with regards to slip resistance. All that does exist are national standards, and within the EU, some guidelines. This has resulted in different countries using different rating scales from each other, and the testing procedures themselves bear little similarity to each other. The results from one set of tests do not correlate directly with those from another.This might seem like an easy problem to solve. However, it's complicated somewhat by representatives of other flooring industries, such as wood or vinyl, weighing in to any discussions with their own concerns and opinions, in an attempt to homogenise all building regulations.And of course, the number and nature of accidents involving slipping mean this is a much more important and widespread area of concern than the likes of chemical resistance, for example. This makes it even more difficult to achieve consensus. To date, there is no single, universal, and internationally accepted slip resistance test.3. The terms “anti - slip”, or “slip resistance”, can be quite subjective.There is, for starters, a difference between actual slipperiness, and perceived slipperiness. A consumer or member of the public will modify their behaviour, for example, walking up an incline, or downwards on a wet surface.If a floor is continuously wet, it could be argued that a dry test rating is rather meaningless.A floor that is almost always exposed to dirt, abrasive material or other contaminants will perform differently in real life to its rating (which was assigned when tested perfectly clean) would suggest.There are other variables that interact with each other to determine whether a surface is “safe” or not. The speed of an individual walking or running; whether footwear is likely to be involved; the material from which the sole of any footwear might be made; whether a person is likely to be applying lateral pressure whilst turning.All told, the situation is quite the mess, despite decades of discussions between various flooring industries. Depending on what country a tile is being installed in, it’s important to understand which guidelines to adhere to. Anyone specifying or considering a floor tile for a certain application should be well informed, and should err on the side of caution. Most countries have health executive arms of government which will stipulate the relevant guidelines.The Tests for Slip Resistant Floor TilesThe main slip resistance tests that are carried out on floor tiles are the ramp test and the pendulum test, which we discuss below. Other tests include the tortus test, a micro-roughness test, and a sled test. In the interest of practicality, we shall only touch on the tests that are by far the most prevalent in the ceramic flooring industry.The Ramp TestThis is by far the most common slip resistance test performed. The majority of European ceramic tile manufacturers are based in Spain and Italy. The slip resistance test that most of them prefer is the ramp test. One of the advantages of this test is that, described in conjunction with it, there's a distinct list of recommended applications that relate to each resistance score. This in turn leads to architects and other tile specifiers within the construction industry to favour the ramp test.The method itself involves a subject walking across the tiles under scrutiny, which are in turn fixed to an adjustable ramp. The subject wears specified safety footwear, and the surface of the tiles are covered in an oil. The angle of the ramp is increased until the subject can no longer maintain balance, and at this point the angle of the ramp is recorded.The steeper the angle, the higher the slip resistance, and the higher the score. The tile is awarded an “R – rating” between 9 and 13 inclusive, with the higher rating indicative of higher resistance. There is a table at the bottom of this article showing possible suggested applications for tiles in each rating. Note that the lowest score possible is 9.One of the disadvantages of this procedure over any other is that it needs to be carried out in a laboratory. Often situations arise, perhaps where there's been an accident or a claim, where measurements need to be taken after installation. Clearly this ramp test is of no benefit in these circumstances.The small number of different scores is often criticised as a weakness, with each rating covering a relatively wide spectrum of resistance. Also, it’s maintained that the controlled laboratory environment can be very different to that in which tiles may eventually be installed, and thus the results may be somewhat misleading. It’s also an expensive test to carry out. Having said that, the ramp test results are extremely consistent and are therefore very reliable.