The Suitability Of Tiles For Heavy Traffic Areas

The tiles durability is determined by its’ scratch resistance and the hardness it has. This is tested and rated according to a value system that depicts the strength of the tiles to hold different kinds of traffic.

The MOHS tests Ceramic and Porcelain tiles for their density and scratch resistance. This is alongside the rating system that decides the quality of the tiles by using a scale of 1-10. The finest and hardest quality tiles are suppose to lie in the 10 scale while tiles of soft quality are said to lie in the number 1 scale. To be certain that you are buying the most suitable tile for your application you should refer to the Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) scale, as this gives the tiles ratings.

This scale is not actually a certification of the tiles quality standards; in fact it describes the areas where tiles in a particular scale can be used. The scale rating and the areas which the tiles have been designed for are given by the manufacturer. Heavy traffic areas will use a different catergory tile than those used on delicate areas. The scale will help you to decide whether you have the right tile for the right area. A class 5 shows the tile is suitable for heavy traffic areas, whilst a class 0 is only suitable for delicate areas. The six classes are described as:

Class 0 – No foot traffic. You will not find these tiles on floors as they are only suitable for interior walls.
Traffic that is light – Class 1. Tiles falling in this category are suitable for interior walls and residence bathroom floors with allowance of only barefoot traffic.
Traffic that is light – Class 2. Soft-soled shoes and slippers can be used with this catergory of tile. They are generally used to tile second level bathroom areas and bedroom floors.
Class 3 – Light to Moderate Traffic. Such tiles can be used for both residential walls as well as floors that can include bedrooms, bathroom tile designs, foyers, family rooms, dining rooms and kitchens. If you want a tile that can provide you with a good service then these are the tiles.
Class 4 – Moderate to Heavy Traffic. Tiles in this catergory are suitable for entrances, balconies, countertops and kitchens. This is because they can withstand outside dirt and stand abrasions. They can also be used for semi-commercial, light industrial wall and floor applications that can include offices, showrooms, shopping malls, hallways and restaurant dining areas.
Heavy traffic – Class 5. Almost any area can use these kind of tiles, supermarkets, industrial areas, airports, subways etc. Floor or wall tiling can use these kind of tiles.

Taking this rating system into consideration, you can easily locate the type of tile that is suitable for the area where you plan to use it.Choosing the right kind of tiles that are effective for your chosen area is very important so ensure you look out for the markings. The abrasion resistance of the tile type needs to be considered before the aesthetic beauty of the tile. This is very very important. Otherwise, you might end up with tiles that look gorgeous in your kitchen, but not quite as suitable for decorating the bathroom.

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