How do you know if glazed ceramic tile will actually hold up years after installation? Many homeowners choose this tile for its clean appearance and low maintenance, but long-term performance depends on more than color or style.
Not all ceramic tiles are the same. Understanding what to look for before making a selection helps homeowners avoid premature damage and gain long-lasting results.
At Beaver Stone & Tile, we help evaluate your project’s demands, offer guidance, and help you select the right tile for your home. Contact us today with your questions or stop in to explore your options!
How to Evaluate Glazed Ceramic Tile Before You Buy
It’s worth slowing down and looking past the surface before deciding on your tile. Slight differences in construction and finish can affect how the tile performs once it’s on the floor.
Knowing what to check ahead of time helps you choose a product that fits your space and its intended use. Here are the most important tile details every homeowner needs to know:
1. Glaze Quality & Surface Strength
The glaze is the protective layer applied to the surface of the ceramic tile. This coating seals the tile and helps protect it from stains, moisture, and surface wear. A high-quality glaze should be smooth, evenly applied, and free of visible inconsistencies.
Tiles with thin or uneven glazing are more likely to show wear in high-traffic areas. A durable tile floor starts with a strong glaze that shields the tile body underneath and preserves its appearance with everyday use.
2. Tile Thickness & Overall Density
Thicker tiles tend to be more stable and less prone to cracking from furniture, foot traffic, or minor subfloor movement. While thickness alone doesn’t define quality, it’s important when it comes to selecting floor tiling.
3. PEI Rating & Wear Resistance
The Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) rating measures how resistant a tile’s surface is to abrasion. Although ceramic tile differs from porcelain, PEI ratings still provide guidance when selecting products for floor applications.
In short, tiles with higher PEI ratings typically mean they’re better able to resist visible wear. Choosing a ceramic floor tile with an appropriate rating usually means it will maintain its finish, even in busy areas of the home.
4. Water Resistance & Practical Performance
Ceramic tile naturally resists moisture, but its resistance depends on the quality of the glaze. Well-glazed tile limits water absorption, which makes it a reliable option for kitchens and bathrooms.
A tile floor with strong water resistance is easier to clean and less likely to stain, which contributes to its long-term durability. Tile flooring chosen with these factors in mind delivers both performance and convenience.
5. Quality Installation Matters
For it to perform well over time, high-quality decorative ceramic tile requires proper installation. Correct installation helps protect the tile itself, and also aids in preventing shifting, cracking, and uneven wear.
Working with the ceramic tile experts in your area offers the proper guidance on material requirements before installation.
Visit Beaver Tile Today for Durable Glazed Ceramic Tiles in Michigan
At Beaver Stone & Tile, we’re your trusted source for tiles throughout Michigan. With showrooms across the state, we make it easy for you to see and compare a wide range of options.
Our experts can help you select the right glazed ceramic tile for your space, decor, and everyday needs. Homeowners who trust our 50+ years of experience choose tiles that match beauty with long-term performance.
Ready to get started? Contact us online today, or visit our website to explore our tile selection, and find a showroom location near you.