What is PEI rating?

It is important that we assist you specify technically-correct product for every application. Full-bodied porcelain is typified by incredibly hard and durable surfaces and body and is appropriate for ALL areas.

However, when looking at glazed porcelain or ceramic, the surface hardness will dictate the areas in which that product can be safely used, to last the test of time.

There are varying levels of suitability of glazed hardness so when discussing with our experts at Tile Warehouse, we will guide and help you select the most suitable material for your specification. 

Each of our tiles is independently tested in accordance with the 'Porcelain-Enamel Institute' (PEI) test and these ratings help determine the hardness, and durability associated with each tile.

The higher the number of PEI, indicates the higher level of abrasion that particular tile can take before it shows any visible signs of deterioration. Therefore higher PEI means better suitability for higher traffic areas. You can see below that the number of rotational cycles that each tile can withstand before it shows any signs of deterioration.

PEI ratings are determined by a measurement of Abrasion Resistance (EN154) measured on a machine which counts the number of revolutions under a standard abrasive load. When the tile shows the damage the revolutions are counted, (from 150 to 1500+) this gives the PEI rating. 

The method was developed on the basis of the claim that the degree of deterioration of a floor should not be determined by the reduction in its thickness, but the visible difference in appearance between the worn surface and the unworn surface, assessed at a defined distance under standard conditions of lighting. It is important to stress that, for the same degree of abrasion, wear is invariably more visible on dark surfaces. For this reason, the PEI value is shown in tile catalogues as the requirement for the individual article, rather than for the series as a whole which may have lighter and darker tiles. 

Revolutions to determine PEI Ratings:

PEI 0: Glazed tiles in this class are wall tiles only and unsuitable for use on floors.

PEI 1: Up to 154 revolutions. For use on very light-wear areas, using soft footwear.

PEI 2: 300, 450, 600 revolutions Light traffic. Very light-wear, mainly bathrooms and areas using soft-soled or normal footwear. Wall use and residential floor applications.

PEI 3: 750, 900, 1200, 1500 revolutions Light to moderate traffic. Average domestic homes. Countertops, walls, and floors for normal foot traffic.

PEI 4: 1500+ revolutions Moderate to heavy traffic. All residential applications as well as medium commercial and light institutional.

PEI 5: 12000 revolutions Heavy to extra heavy traffic. All residential and heavy commercial and institutional foot traffic, stores, entrance halls, shops & hotel floors.