22 August 2026
The design is often the initial step in selecting wall tiles. Purchasers first consider color, pattern, size, and finish.
However, there is another side to the tale you can miss. Specifications can impact the appearance, performance, and installation of tiles.
It’s particularly important if purchasing in bulk. A beautiful catalogue is not enough for importers, distributors, and project buyers. Their specifications must be the same from one batch to the next.
When choosing wall tiles, it’s important to consider these five technical factors:
When talking about tile durability, PEI comes up. However, there’s one thing that’s crucial. PEI is a principal measure for the abrasion resistance of the surface of a glazed tile and is primarily used for the evaluation of flooring applications.
Abrasion from foot traffic is usually not a concern for wall tiles. Instead, buyers should consider whether the tile would work for wall use or not.
When ordering ceramic wall tiles or porcelain wall tiles, avoid choosing a tile with a higher PEI rating, just for that reason. Read the full technical documentation and use.
One of the technical properties of tiles is its water absorption. It shows the amount of water a tile can absorb when subjected to standard tests.
Porcelain tiles have typically very low water absorption, typically 0.5% or less. The absorption of ceramic tiles may be higher depending on the body and manufacturing process.
The distinction is significant for bathroom wall tiles, kitchen and other interior use wall tiles.
It is an easy thing for buyers to keep in mind. Avoid judging tiles by their looks. Always read the technical data sheet and know what you are ordering.
Have you ever seen a sample tile that changed color after it was installed all the way across a wall?
The cause may be variations in shade.
Most tile companies use the terms V1, V2, V3, and V4 to describe the variation. V1 is a relatively uniform appearance. The higher the variation level, the more apparent the differences will be between tiles.
This is especially true with designs intended to look like natural stone or decorative wall tiles. A greater deviation may result in a more realistic and interesting look, but consumers should be aware of this.
In large projects, always check the approved sample with the actual production batch.
The nominal size is typically the size of the tile. There may be very slight variations in the actual manufactured size, controlled by sorting the caliber.
After firing, rectified wall tiles are cut a second time on the edge to achieve a perfect fit. This makes straight and accurate edges.
What is the significance of this?
If the installation system and substrate permit, it is possible to use more uniform and narrower grout joints when installing rectified tiles. That’s why they are in use today for wall tile designs and for large format applications.
If buying wall tiles in bulk, it is advisable to check the calibre consistency before the production and shipment.
A wall’s appearance can change dramatically depending on the type of finish used, such as glossy, matte, structured and others.
Shiny wall tiles will reflect light, and help brighten up a room. Matte finishes produce a subdued appearance. Decorative use may involve structured surfaces which provide depth and texture.
However, finish also impacts on cleaning and maintenance. A rough surface like a wall could be more interesting than a smooth surface.
Consider appearance and use when selecting wall tiles for living room, kitchen or bathroom applications.
The catalog may have the perfect tile but it may not be the right tile for the job.
It’s better to review technical aspects with the design. Examine water absorbency. Understand shade variation. Check calibre. Check if edges are rectified. Just be sure that the finish is appropriate for the use.
These details can help importers and distributors, who are dealing with wall tiles manufacturers, suppliers or exporters, to ensure they select the appropriate product in the sample stage which will be available at the time of shipment.
The technical specification is equally as significant as the design when purchasing the tiles in bulk.
