What are Different Grades in Porcelain Tile

• Porcelain tiles have become increasingly popular in both residential and commercial spaces due to their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal.
• Understanding the different grades of porcelain tiles is crucial for making informed decisions when selecting the right tile for your project.
• Porcelain tiles are a versatile choice, and manufacturers establish different grades based on the materials used in their composition and their thickness.

Different Grades in Porcelain Tile:

Here’s the details of different grades in porcelain tile to provide a comprehensive understanding of their uses and characteristics:

Grade 1

• Manufacturers produce the most delicate porcelain tiles exclusively for wall use, not for flooring or countertops.
• People commonly choose Grade 1 tiles for areas like kitchen backsplashes and bathroom walls because of their benefits, including water and stain resistance, attractive patterns and colours, and easy maintenance.
• These tiles are a perfect choice when aesthetics and cleanliness are top priorities.

Grade 2:

• Grade 2 tiles are suitable for areas with light traffic, such as bedrooms or bathrooms.
• While people can use them as residential flooring, manufacturers didn’t design them to withstand heavy foot traffic, which makes them unsuitable for commercial floors.
• People also commonly use them for wall coverings, adding an extra layer of design in spaces with limited foot traffic.

Grade 3:

• Most manufacturers label tiles as Grade 3 when they intend them for residential floor use.
• These tiles can endure moderate foot traffic and daily wear and tear, making them fitting for light commercial applications like offices and small shops.
• They work well in homes, including kitchens, family rooms, hallways, and even as countertops.
• Some Grade 3 tiles can also have outdoor applications, further expanding their utility.

Grade 4:

• Manufacturers recommend Grade 4 tiles for most commercial settings.
• They engineer these tiles to endure heavy traffic and often find them in places like restaurants, shops, and offices, where a sturdy and low-maintenance floor is essential.
• Many homeowners also choose Grade 4 tiles for spaces requiring robust flooring, such as laundry rooms and mudrooms.
• They can also serve as porcelain pavers for outdoor patios, combining durability and aesthetics.

Grade 5:

• These are the hardest porcelain tiles available, built to endure very high foot traffic and substantial wear and tear.
• Typically, they use these tiles in locations like schools, hospitals, grocery stores, and industrial buildings.
• Grade 5 tiles can withstand harsh chemicals as well, making them ideal for spaces with demanding requirements.
• Due to their primary focus on durability, manufacturers usually offer them in a more limited range of colours and patterns, prioritizing functionality over design.

Types of Porcelain Tile:

In addition to these grades, manufacturers categorize porcelain tiles as glazed and unglazed, offering distinct benefits:

Glazed Porcelain Tile:

• Manufacturers produce glazed porcelain tiles in a wide array of colours, patterns, and finishes.
• Their strength and versatility make them a versatile choice for both floors and walls.
• This versatility provides numerous design options while maintaining durability, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

Unglazed Porcelain Tile:

• Manufacturers create unglazed porcelain tiles to be exceptionally tough because they are solid all the way through.
• This characteristic makes them particularly suitable for floors, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Moreover, they are robust enough for outdoor use, adding to their utility and practicality.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, understanding the different grades and types of porcelain tiles allows you to make informed choices based on your specific needs and the demands of the space you are designing or renovating.

By matching the right grade and type of porcelain tile to your project, you can ensure both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Find all kinds of Porcelain Tiles at Irazo Ceramic.

Reference:

• Handbook on quality assurance for tiling on floors and walls [1].