Ceramic and tiles are available in a wide variety of styles are best suited for a wide variety of uses. For instance, some of these are designed for the walls while some for the floors. They can also be adjusted according to room requirements depending on their finish, design, and surface texture. In order to determine the proper use of tiles for the application of PEI rating for tiles are given by the tile industry, which is primarily based on the testing done by Porcelain Enamel Institute. This institute has its main branch at Norcross, GA and deals with the delivery of porcelain enamelling equipment and materials.
The PEI rating gives an insight into the durability and hardness of the ceramic products once they are tested for the dame. The PEI rating is given when the surface layer is tested for enamel layer glazing. It does give an insight into the fracture strength or slip-resistance of the tile. PEI rating in technical terms can be defined as the measurement of the surface resistance to abrasion. An abrasion testing machine is used to provide rating to the tiles. The processing of machine is in such a manner that the steel ball bearings get pressed down and rolled over the surface of the tile, and its effect can be seen by the observer. The ratings of the ceramic tiles are particularly based on the number of revolution of the machine head.
Understanding the point scale of ratings
A porcelain tile is provided PEI hardness rating on a five-point scale and particularly ranges from 0 to NR category. The PEI class is assigned on the basis of the revolutions taken by the testing machine, which makes the abrasions noticeable.
Paying close attention to the PEI rating for tiles
You must pay close attention to the PEI rating when you are choosing tiles. For instance, a light-duty class ranging from 0-1 will crack if it is used on the floors. On the other hand, class 5 can be heavy, and it might be difficult to hold it up even with the help of adhesives. Although some of the tiles do not have PEI class ratings, it is necessary that you choose tiles that come up with such ratings for ease of use.
Another way to choose the floor and wall tiles are through criteria. The tile is designated for installation on the wall is not affected by the foot movement, and there is no wear of any kind in that case. This particular kind of tile can be smooth and thinner, and safety is not a major concern in that case. When it comes to the tiles used on the walls, they can have complicated designs and might not work well on the floor, which is why it is recommended that you choose them carefully.
The tiles which are used on the floors often have a textured finish which makes it easy to walk on them without slipping. It is recommended that you take a look at the manufacturing details of the service provider to understand the PEI settings. It is necessary that the company should provide all the information related to the ratings so that it becomes easy for the consumer to understand the same. Make sure they you also take a look at the specifications related to the location of the tiles so that you do not mistake them for each other.
At last, the PEI rating for ceramic tiles can surely help to some extent and help the customers make a sound decision regarding the quality of tiles that they are looking for their home.
