When it comes to choosing the perfect tiles for your space, it’s important to keep several variables in mind, from those associated exclusively with aesthetics, to those related to practicality. One of these variables is undoubtedly thickness. In this brief guide, we’ll explore the possible options regarding the thickness of porcelain stoneware tiles and how to choose the thickness that meets your needs. In particular, we’ll take a look at thinner options, evaluating the potential and reliability of ultra-thin, over-sized slabs, which revolutionised the ceramic market about twenty years ago.
Thickness is a crucial factor in determining how resistant ceramic tiles are. The general rule is that thicker tiles are recommended for floors rather than for wall coverings, as they better withstand the weight of furniture, impacts, and long-term foot traffic. Nevertheless, thanks to continuous improvements in production technology, this remains true primarily for public spaces, which must adhere to specific national and international standards, more so than for private ones.
In the case of underfloor heating, the thickness of the ceramic (a material with excellent thermal conductivity) can affect how heat is transferred into the room, given that thicker tiles tend to conduct less heat as compared to thinner ones. This is a very good reason to consider using ultra-thin wood-look porcelain stoneware instead of real hardwood, which is an excellent insulator.
Tile Thickness: the Available Options
Porcelain stoneware is renowned for its durability. This, along with its outstanding practicality and the wide range of aesthetic options available, is what makes it the preferred choice for flooring in high-traffic public spaces, such as shopping centres, train stations, airports, and hospitals.
Stoneware’s durability – an aspect that will be the focus of a future article – depends primarily on its physical and chemical characteristics, perfected by a production process that has, over the past forty years, been honed by a group of Italian companies.
Depending on the intended use and the aesthetic requirements of the project, we can categorise tiles into three main groups.
1. Ultra-thin porcelain: from 3.5 mm to 6.5 mm thick
Such minimal thicknesses are associated with ultra-thin over-sized slabs, the product of a manufacturing process that combines the qualities of porcelain stoneware with reduced weight, ease of handling, and versatility. These slabs are produced without the use of moulds and reach truly massive dimensions, making them suitable for a wide range of unconventional uses.
2. Porcelain stoneware Standard: a 10 mm thickness
The thickness of a stoneware floor is usually around 10 mm. These tiles come in a wide range of formats and are used for flooring and cladding (including facades) in many residential and public contexts, even those with heavy foot traffic. They provide a good balance of durability, versatility, ease of installation, and affordability.
3. Extra thick tiles: from 12 mm to 20 mm thick
These are the most durable tiles, designed for outdoor flooring, industrial areas, and areas with heavy foot traffic. They can be installed dry, on sand, grass, gravel, or self-levelling supports. When installed with adhesive on cement screed, they are suitable for outdoor areas where vehicles are manoeuvred. In general, they feature surface finishes with a high degree of slip resistance.
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