Tiles form an integral material when designing a house and its interiors. They are mostly used in water-prone zones such as toilets, kitchens, terraces, etc. To merge its functionality with aesthetics, tiles are available in numerous sizes, thickness, designs, details, composition, etc. These can instantly make a space convey the right message through its designs, details, and application.
A lot of people believe the main difference between wall tiles and floor tiles is their size. There is also a widespread belief that porcelain tiles are meant for floors while ceramic tiles are used for walls, which is yet another myth that needs to be dispelled. As it turns out, neither of those statements are true.
But the question is can you use the same tile on the floor and walls?
Unfortunately, the answer is no, these are some of the main differences between the floor and wall tiles that you must be aware of.
First Appearance of Tiles
Generally, floor tiles are larger whereas wall tiles are relatively small. The wall tiles are usually available in more intricate designs and bright colors whereas flooring tiles are mostly larger and relatively plain. Larger tiles are preferred on floors because they result in fewer joints and look seamless. On walls, however, it may look overpowering. Hence, smaller size tiles are preferred for walls.
Also the thickness of a tile is dependent on the function it is supposed to be performing. Floor tiles are meant to take wear and tear of human traffic and be load-bearing – hence, are thicker. In comparison, wall tiles serve a protective function, mainly from water seeping in from the walls, and do not require any load bearing capacity.
Second Slipperiness
Every type of tile has a Coefficient of Friction or COF rating that determines their slipperiness. Tiles with higher COF have greater levels of friction making them much easier and safer to walk on without any slippage. Therefore, floor tiles usually have a higher COF rating. Meanwhile, tiles with lower COF are relatively more slippery.
Third Strength and Hardness
floor tiles are meant to be load bearing and need to pass levels of durability and hardness. This is determined by a rating called PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute), which ranges between one to five – five being extremely durable and one being the least. Therefore, maximum rating implies greater durability. Tiles rated one to three can be used for walls, whereas three to five-rated tiles are ideal for floors.
Forth Heat and Moisture Resistance
Whether you opt for ceramic or porcelain wall tiles, they are both almost equally resistant to heat and moisture. This is because your walls do not come in contact with water and hot objects as frequently as your floors do.
As floor tiles are thicker than their counterparts, they display higher heat resistance.
Overall, wall tiles and floor tiles both have their uses and aesthetics. It is just a matter of knowing what’s best for the space in terms of use and look.
