When selecting tiles for your home or commercial space, it's essential to understand tile ratings and what they mean. These ratings provide valuable information about the tile's durability, suitability for different applications, and overall quality.
In this guide, we will explore the various tile ratings, including PEI ratings, MOHS hardness scale, COF ratings, and water absorption rates, to help you make an informed decision for your tiling projects. Choosing the right tile involves more than just picking a color or design. Tile ratings offer critical insights into the tile's performance characteristics, ensuring you select the best option for your specific needs.
This comprehensive guide will explain the key tile ratings and how to interpret them, helping you choose tiles that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This rating system is particularly important for flooring tiles, as it indicates how well the tile can withstand foot traffic.
PEI ratings range from 0 to 5, with higher numbers indicating greater durability. The MOHS hardness scale measures the scratch resistance of a tile's surface. This scale ranges from 1 to 10, with higher numbers indicating harder materials. Understanding the MOHS hardness of a tile helps determine its suitability for various applications, particularly in areas prone to scratches and heavy use.
This rating is crucial for floor tiles, particularly in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. COF ratings are expressed as a decimal, with higher numbers indicating better slip resistance. Water absorption rates measure the tile's ability to absorb moisture. This rating is essential for tiles used in wet areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces. The rate is expressed as a percentage, with lower numbers indicating better water resistance.
