Floor tiles Fact file

This fact file explains what makes a floor tile and how they are graded.

FLOOR TILES

Most tiles consist of the BASE CLAY and the SURFACE GLAZE.

The BASE CLAY determines the frost resistance.

RED CLAY should be FROST RESISTANT down to minus 5^o C. 
WHITE CLAY should be FROST RESISTANT down to minus 10^o C. White clay also tends to cut better. 
PORCELAIN is totally FROST PROOF

The GLAZE determines the DURABILITY of the tile, and obviously the ANTI-SLIP PROPERTIES.

GRADES OF WEAR are set according to European Standards – PEI grades. 
Grade 1 is a wall tile. Not suitable for a any floors. 
Grade 2 is suitable for LIGHT TRAFFIC ONLY – e.g. Bathrooms 
Grade 3 is suitable for MOST DOMESTIC uses – e.g. Kitchen, Conservatory, but not the MAIN ENTRANCE. 
Grade 4 is suitable for ALL DOMESTIC and MEDIUM COMMERCIAL use - e.g. Most shops & showrooms 
Grade 5 is for ALL DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL uses. Put them anywhere! Take-aways in particular.

There are also grades of SLIP RESISTANCE, but this can normally be determined just by feel.

The THICKNESS of a tile has nothing to do with how long lasting it may be and only affects the strength of the actual tile. I.e. A thin tile will require a first class fitting job, since any areas without the correct adhesive contact can easily break. With thick tiles, you can afford to be less exact.