Tile Types & Selection
Ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass tile - water absorption rates, PEI ratings, COF ratings, and tile classification.
- Classify tiles by water absorption rate and explain how absorption affects application
- Identify ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and glass tile properties
- Interpret PEI wear ratings and COF slip resistance ratings
- Select appropriate tile types for specific installations
Lección 1
Ceramic & Porcelain Tile
Understanding Tile Classification
Tiles are classified primarily by their water absorption rate, which directly determines where they can be installed. The lower the absorption rate, the denser and more durable the tile.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is made from clay fired in a kiln. Standard ceramic tile has a water absorption rate above 0.5%, making it suitable for interior walls and light-traffic floors. Ceramic tiles are:
- Easier to cut than porcelain
- Available in glazed and unglazed finishes
- More affordable than porcelain
- Not recommended for exterior or freeze-thaw environments
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile is fired at higher temperatures and pressures, resulting in a denser body with less than 0.5% water absorption. This makes porcelain:
- Suitable for exterior installations and freeze-thaw climates
- More resistant to staining and wear
- Harder to cut (requires wet saw with porcelain blade)
- Available as through-body (colour throughout) or glazed (colour on surface only)
Exam Tip
The exam defines porcelain by its water absorption rate - less than 0.5%. This is the key distinction. Any tile with absorption below 0.5% qualifies as porcelain regardless of clay type.
Tile classification is based on water absorption rate. Porcelain tile absorbs less than 0.5% (impervious), making it suitable for exterior and wet applications. Standard ceramic absorbs more and is limited to interior use.