The Porcelain Enamel Institute has created a standardized grading system for ceramic and porcelain tile. The PEI rating categorizes tile by its specific intended use and its capacity to resist wear from foot traffic. The ratings are recorded on the packing of all tile makers. Selecting the proper tile level for any specific application is simplified as a result of this rating system. The PEI rating does not consider price, and every level of tile is priced differently due to the manufacturing processes. Tile with a higher score is more expensive to make and will cost the customer more.
Group 1
This type of tile is intended for quite light residential usage. It won’t hold up to foot traffic, and should be used on walls only. Don’t use this kind of tile to get a floor or countertop application; it will fail in a short period of time. Tile with this rating is offered in many different sizes, configurations, finishes and colours.
Group Two
Group 2 Bath is just a residential-rated, low-to-medium usage tile. Other than very high traffic places, such as entryways, kitchen floors and counters, this tile could be used for a variety of applications in the home, such as bedrooms, bathrooms and walls. Group 2 tile is also offered in various sizes, finishes and colours.
Group 3
Designed to resist medium to heavy wear, group 3 tile is rated to be used in residential and light commercial applications. Group 3 tile is noticeably thicker and heavier than group 1 or 2 tile. It can be utilized in any residential application and is ideal for countertops. Certain light commercial applications are also suitable for collection 3 tile, including low-to-medium commercial traffic places like reception places, small shops and little restaurant dining rooms. Group 3 tile has the biggest range of sizes, colours and finishes of each the tile ratings.
Group 4
Designed for medium commercial to light institutional software, group 4 tile is significantly heavier and more durable than lesser graded tiles. It is rated for use in restaurants, offices, hotels, banks and hospital lobbies. Group 4 tile can be found in fewer alternatives than lower-rated tile because of its higher manufacturing price.
Group 5
Group 5 tile is designed for areas that experience exceptionally heavy foot traffic. It is rated for exterior uses where public safety is paramount. Resisting extreme wear, the elements and fever, group 5 tile is ideal for shopping malls, public building entrances, high-rise entrances and indoor or outdoor public swimming pools. Group 5 tile is quite heavy and thick, and additionally, it tends to be the priciest tile compared to lesser-rated tiles. Group 5 tile is also produced with fewer alternatives in size, texture and color.