Tile Size Variation
When choosing tiles for your home or commercial project, it is important to understand that size variation is a normal occurrence in the tile manufacturing process. Whether you opt for rectified tiles or pressed edge/cushion edge tiles, there will be slight differences in size that should be taken into account during installation.
Rectified Tiles
Rectified tiles are mechanically cut after firing, resulting in a precise, straight edge. This process allows for a smaller grout joint and a more streamlined, modern look. However, due to the nature of the manufacturing process, there may be slight variations in size. The Australian Standard allows for a size variation of +/- 0.5mm for rectified tiles.
Pressed Edge/Cushion Edge Tiles
Pressed edge/cushion edge tiles are moulded and then trimmed to create a slightly rounded edge. This process can result in a larger size variation compared to rectified tiles. The Australian Standard allows for a size variation of +/- 1.5mm for pressed edge/cushion edge tiles.
Recommended Joint Size
To accommodate size variation, it is important to choose an appropriate joint size. The Australian Standard recommends a minimum joint size of 2mm for rectified tiles and 3mm for pressed edge/cushion edge tiles. This allows for slight size variation and also accommodates for expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature and humidity.
Size Variation is Not a Defect
It's important to note that size variation is not a defect in the tile and should not be considered a reason for rejection or replacement. The Australian Standard allows for size variation within the tolerances mentioned above, and these variations will not affect the quality or performance of the tile.
Understanding tile size variation is an important aspect of any tile installation. Whether you choose rectified tiles or pressed edge/cushion edge tiles, there will be slight differences in size. By choosing an appropriate joint size and understanding the Australian Standard tolerances, you can ensure a successful and visually pleasing tile installation. Remember, size variation is not a defect and should not be a cause for concern.
Notwithstanding the allowable tolerances, in practice recommended tiles rarely vary significantly in size. The standard recommended grout joint of 3 mm (AS 3958.1-2007 - Guide to the Installation of Ceramic Tiles) generally provides sufficient tolerance to allow for size variations to lay tiles effectively.
Credit: Australian Tile Council
Rectified Tiles
Rectified tiles are mechanically cut after firing, resulting in a precise, straight edge. This process allows for a smaller grout joint and a more streamlined, modern look. However, due to the nature of the manufacturing process, there may be slight variations in size. The Australian Standard allows for a size variation of +/- 0.5mm for rectified tiles.
Pressed Edge/Cushion Edge Tiles
Pressed edge/cushion edge tiles are moulded and then trimmed to create a slightly rounded edge. This process can result in a larger size variation compared to rectified tiles. The Australian Standard allows for a size variation of +/- 1.5mm for pressed edge/cushion edge tiles.
Recommended Joint Size
To accommodate size variation, it is important to choose an appropriate joint size. The Australian Standard recommends a minimum joint size of 2mm for rectified tiles and 3mm for pressed edge/cushion edge tiles. This allows for slight size variation and also accommodates for expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature and humidity.
Size Variation is Not a Defect
It's important to note that size variation is not a defect in the tile and should not be considered a reason for rejection or replacement. The Australian Standard allows for size variation within the tolerances mentioned above, and these variations will not affect the quality or performance of the tile.
Understanding tile size variation is an important aspect of any tile installation. Whether you choose rectified tiles or pressed edge/cushion edge tiles, there will be slight differences in size. By choosing an appropriate joint size and understanding the Australian Standard tolerances, you can ensure a successful and visually pleasing tile installation. Remember, size variation is not a defect and should not be a cause for concern.
Notwithstanding the allowable tolerances, in practice recommended tiles rarely vary significantly in size. The standard recommended grout joint of 3 mm (AS 3958.1-2007 - Guide to the Installation of Ceramic Tiles) generally provides sufficient tolerance to allow for size variations to lay tiles effectively.
Credit: Australian Tile Council
