When embarking on a tile flooring project, one of the most critical aspects is understanding the terminology used in the industry. Whether you’re renovating a bathroom, designing a kitchen backsplash, or selecting new flooring for an entire home, knowing the right terms helps ensure you make informed decisions that match your aesthetic vision and project requirements.
The world of tile is vast, with a plethora of materials, finishes, and installation techniques. Each of these aspects is tied to specific terms that professionals use to describe tiles. Understanding them empowers you to confidently discuss your needs, ensuring that you not only choose the right tile but also achieve the perfect result.
This guide covers essential tile terms and definitions to provide a solid foundation for your project. Whether you’re an interior designer, builder, or a DIY enthusiast, this knowledge will help you better communicate with suppliers, installers, and contractors—leading to a successful project outcome.
SE Tile Connection’s Tile Terminology Guide
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles are made from clay and other materials, glazed for durability and color variation. While they are generally less expensive than porcelain, they are also less dense and better suited for areas with light to moderate foot traffic. Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for backsplashes and wall applications due to their affordability and ease of maintenance.
Glazed vs. Unglazed Tiles
Glazed tiles are coated with a liquid glass layer that is fused to the surface during firing. This glaze gives the tile its color, pattern, and finish while also providing a protective barrier against stains. Unglazed tiles, on the other hand, have a more natural, earthy appearance and require sealing to prevent water absorption and staining.
Grout
Grout is the material used to fill the gaps between tiles, providing a finished look and structural integrity. Grout comes in various colors and types, including sanded and unsanded varieties. Sanded grout is used for wider joints, while unsanded grout is typically used for narrow joints and delicate tiles like glass or polished stone.
Mosaic Tile
Mosaic tiles are small, typically less than two inches square, and come in a wide variety of materials like glass, ceramic, and natural stone. These tiles are often mounted on mesh sheets for easier installation. Mosaics are perfect for creating intricate patterns and designs on backsplashes, shower floors, or accent walls.
Natural Stone Tile
Natural stone tiles are crafted from quarried materials such as marble, granite, slate, and limestone. Each stone has its unique texture, color, and character, making these tiles a sought-after option for luxurious and upscale environments. However, natural stone requires sealing and regular maintenance to protect it from stains and wear.
PEI Rating
The PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating indicates a tile’s hardness and its suitability for different areas of the home. The scale ranges from 1 to 5, with 1 being suited for light foot traffic areas like walls, and 5 being durable enough for commercial spaces with heavy foot traffic. Understanding a tile’s PEI rating helps ensure you choose the right material for each part of your project.
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tiles are a type of ceramic tile that is fired at higher temperatures, making them denser, less porous, and more durable. Because of their water resistance, they are ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces. Porcelain tiles also offer a broad range of design options, from mimicking natural stone to wood grains.
Rectified Tile
Rectified tiles are precisely cut or ground after being fired, ensuring that each tile is uniform in size and shape. This feature allows for narrower grout lines, giving a cleaner, more modern look to your floors or walls. Rectified tiles are often preferred for larger spaces where seamless lines are desired.
Slip Resistance
Slip resistance refers to a tile’s ability to prevent slipping when wet. This is an essential feature for areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or pool decks. The slip resistance of a tile is often measured by its COF (Coefficient of Friction) rating; the higher the COF, the more slip-resistant the tile.
Substrate
The substrate refers to the surface on which the tile is installed. Common substrates include concrete, plywood, and cement board. Proper preparation of the substrate is crucial to a successful tile installation, as uneven or unsuitable substrates can lead to cracks, uneven tiles, and a shortened lifespan for your tile work.
Selecting the Right Tile for Your Project
Choosing the right tile involves more than just picking a design that complements your space. You need to consider the tile’s material, finish, durability, and maintenance needs.
For instance, if you’re planning a high-traffic area like an entryway, you may want a tile with a high PEI rating and slip-resistant qualities. Meanwhile, for a bathroom renovation, porcelain or ceramic tiles with glazed finishes offer both beauty and water resistance.
Understanding the basics of tile terminology allows you to make better-informed decisions, ensuring your project runs smoothly. Whether you are sourcing tiles for a minimalist, modern kitchen or a rustic, nature-inspired living room, knowing your options empowers you to discuss details with your contractor or supplier with confidence.
Why Choosing a Quality Tile Supplier Matters
When it comes to finding the right tile, partnering with a knowledgeable and experienced supplier is essential. The right supplier will not only offer a vast selection of premium tiles but they will guide you in understanding technical details—such as substrate compatibility, maintenance requirements, and design options—ensuring that your tile choice stands the test of time.
Southeastern Tile Connection is the premier choice for homeowners, interior designers, builders, and DIYers alike. With the widest range of high-quality tiles in North Carolina from porcelain to natural stone, we are equipped to meet the needs of any project, no matter the size or complexity. Our team of tile experts can assist you in navigating technical terminology and selecting products that elevate your design vision.
Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, designing a spa-like bathroom or planning a commercial renovation, Southeastern Tile Connection offers the expertise and personalized service to make your vision a reality.
To explore our extensive collection of luxury tiles and start planning your project, visit one of our conveniently located showrooms in Wilmington, Asheville, or Raleigh. We can’t wait to meet you!