Category: Finishes
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
Ceramic tiles are fired clay with a glazed face and higher water absorption than porcelain, which is classed at 0.5% absorption or less. They are widely used on internal walls, bathrooms and kitchens, and some grades on light-traffic floors.
Why it matters on a project
Cheaper and easier to cut than porcelain, but less resistant to impact and wear. Choosing the grade for the location avoids cracking and wear.
Measurement and pricing
Per square metre including adhesive and grout, with waste allowance by size and laying pattern.
Worked example
An 18 m² bathroom wall in 30 x 60 cm tiles with 10% waste: area 18 × 1.10 = 19.8 m², pieces 19.8 ÷ 0.18 = 110.
Common mistake
Using wall ceramics on floors or external entrances, so they crack and wear quickly.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell ceramic from porcelain?
From the water absorption on the factory certificate; porcelain is 0.5% or less and usually has a uniform body.
Can ceramic be used on floors?
Floor-rated grades suit light traffic; porcelain is better for heavy traffic.
Related terms
- Porcelain tilesHigh-density, low-absorption ceramic tiles suited to heavy-use floors.
- Tile adhesiveA modified cementitious mortar that fixes tiles instead of traditional mortar.
- Tile groutThe material that fills the joints between tiles.
- Waste allowanceA percentage added to material quantities to cover cutting, damage and site loss.
Read next
- Interior fit-out stages, from site handover to project handover
- Work out quantities with our free calculators: concrete, tiles, paint and plaster. Open the calculators
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