Durability of Ceramic Tiles

The Basics of Ceramic Tiles: Durability

The most basic features you should know about tile is its durability. A rating system has been devised for tile which will help you make a selection based on its durability. Most tile manufacturers use the rating system of the Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) which provides a guide for the durability of tile. With this system, Group 1 indicates the least durable tiles and Group 5 indicates the most durable. Group 1 tiles could include tiles for residential use in bathrooms that do not have heavy foot traffic. Group 2 tiles could be used where there is a little more residential traffic. However, Group 2 would not include kitchens or entrance halls that may contain quite a bit of residential traffic. Those locations would fall under the Group 3 tile group, as there would be a greater need for more durable tiles. Group 3 tiles could also include areas with light commercial traffic such as offices, residential areas and small stores. Then Group 4 tiles would be more suitable for medium commercial traffic. This would include locations such as restaurants, hotels and hospital lobbies. Group 5 tiles are reserved for the heaviest traffic areas, as well as wet areas where safety is a concern. Group 5 files can also be used in outside walkways, building entrances and shopping centers. They are also useful around swimming pools due to their wet areas.

The PEI rating system only applies to durability, not cost or appearance. In fact, some of the more lavish and expensive tiles only have a 1 or 2 rating.

Glazes that are sprayed or poured onto the surface of floor tiles are merely liquid glass. A great amount of heat is then used to fuse and harden the surface of the tile.

The various colors of the tile can be created by mixing different minerals. Some of the minerals that can be mixed are gold, silver, copper, cobalt, mercury and zinc. The hardness of the glaze determines the strength and resistance of the glaze. Of course, a glaze that is very hard is the most resistant to pressure and abrasions. The hardness and durability of the glaze is dependent upon the temperature (a high oven/kiln temperature); color (light colors are better than dark colors); and gloss (matte or satin finishes are better than shiny or glossy finishes).

Bisque is the term to describe the body of the baked clay. It is comprised of different types of clay and other minerals. The bisque obtains its strength and solidity when these raw materials are combined. The density also determines the strength of the bisque. The bisques with the greatest density have the smallest and fewest amounts of air pockets in the clay and are the strongest. Tiles of this density are great for heavy duty commercial uses and some residential uses. High density tiles are also useful outdoors, whereas low density tiles are too porous and may freeze or crack if they are used outdoors, especially in cold climates.
 

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