How To Buy Tile 〈2026 Update〉

Check the Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) rating. For residential floors, aim for a PEI 3 or 4. PEI 0-2 is strictly for walls or light-duty use.

Ordering just enough to cover the square footage is a common mistake. You must account for "waste" from cuts, breakage, and future repairs. how to buy tile

Not all tiles are created equal; a beautiful wall tile might crack instantly if used on a floor. Check the Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) rating

Buying tile is a step-by-step process of matching the right material to your room's specific needs, calculating quantities accurately, and verifying quality before the "point of no return" (installation). 1. Match Tile to the Room's Demands Ordering just enough to cover the square footage

In wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens, look for a "textured" or "matte" finish with a high slip rating (R10 or R11). Avoid high-gloss tiles for bathroom floors as they become dangerously slippery when wet.

For showers or outdoor use, porcelain is superior to ceramic because it is denser and virtually non-porous. 2. Calculate Your Quantity (The 10-15% Rule)