Use and Care Guide
ASTM/ANSI
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) are nationally recognized organizations which provide the testing proce-
dures and standard values, respectively for ceramic tile produced in the United States.
WATER ABSORPTION (ASTM C373)
Ceramic tile are also classified by their water absorption rate which reflects the
density of the body of the tile.
There is a direct relationship to the water absorption rate and the suitability of the
various types of tile for interior or exterior applications. Tiles suitable for exterior appli-
cations must have a very low water absorption rate, especially in climates subject to
freezing and thawing cycles.
These are typically porcelain body tile which have a moisture absorption rating of less
than .5 percent. If it is more than .5, then it is classified as ceramic.
Water Absorption Levels:
Impervious Tile: 0.0 – 0.5%
Vitreous Tile: >0.5 – 3.0%
Semi-Vitreous Tile: >3.0 – 7.0%
Non-Vitreous Tile: Greater than 7.0%
ABRASION RESISTANCE (ASTM C1027)
Abrasion resistance is the measure of the amount of glaze that is removed after
numerous cycles of abrasion. Often times it is referred to as a PEI rating. Abrasion
resistance is classified
as I-V and determines what application a product is suitable for:
CLASS I: Residential and commercial wall and bare foot trac.
CLASS II: Wall and residential bath floor, and soft soled trac.
CLASS III: All residential floors and light commercial floors.
CLASS IV: Medium commercial, light industrial and institutional, moderate soiling.
CLASS V: Extra heavy trac, abrasive dirt, chemically more resistant.
BREAKING STRENGTH (ASTM C648)
Ceramic tiles used on floors and walls must be able to withstand the expected load
bearing capacity of various installations. In order to determine the breaking and
flexing strength of the tile there is a standard test method used to evaluate individual
pieces.
A force is applied to an unsupported portion of the tile until breakage occurs. The
ultimate breaking strength is then recorded in pounds. Final selection of the tile
should be based upon the breaking strength and appropriate installation method.
INDUSTRY STANDARDS
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