Red Seal Tilesetter Practice Exam

How is the durability of tile measured?

1. By its water absorption rate

2. By its PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating

3. By its weight

4. By its thickness

The correct answer is: By its PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating

The durability of tile is best measured by its PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating. This rating system assesses the ability of glazed tiles to withstand foot traffic and other wear, which are critical considerations in determining how well a tile can endure stress over time. Tiles are categorized into different classes based on their hardness and suitability for various environments, ranging from residential to heavy commercial use. While water absorption rate is also an important factor in tile performance, it mainly pertains to susceptibility to moisture and does not directly indicate how well the tile will handle everyday wear. Weight and thickness can influence installation and handling, but they are not definitive indicators of a tile's durability against scratches, chips, or other damages typically assessed in flooring applications. Thus, the PEI rating serves as a comprehensive measure for evaluating the durability of tile surfaces in real-world scenarios.