Specification
SPECIFICATION GUIDE
SLIP RESISTANCE
Slip resistance is used to determine the degree of slippage on a tiled surface. Dynamic coefficient
of friction (DCOF) is the most common measure used by the North American tile industry to
identify suitable applications for a flooring product. According to DCOF AcuTest results, receiving
higher than a 0.42 DCOF rating on level surfaces means there is a high slip resistance potential. A
lower than a 0.42 DCOF rating has less friction and traction.
WATER ABSORPTION
Water absorption rates are the most important measurement of a tile. The Water absorption rates
are a measurement of how much moisture retains in the density of the tile.
Impervious
Absorb 0.5% or lower. These tiles suitable for all applications
Vitreous
Absorb between 0.5% and 3%. These tiles suitable for wet or indoor applications
Semi-Vitreous
Absorb between 3% and 7%. These tiles for indoor application
Non-Vitreous
Absorb 7% or higher. These tiles for indoor with no moisture only
FROST RESISTANCE
Frost-proof is defined as the ability of tiles to withstand freeze/thaw conditions with minimal
effect. A tile with NOT frost-proof is NOT suitable for outdoor use.
SCRATCH RESISTANCE
Mohs is a scale of hardness used to determine a material’s scratch resistance. The ranging from 1
to 10, with 10 being diamond, the highest rating. The higher the rating, the more scratch-resistant.
P.E.I. RATING
PEI Rating indicates the surface abrasion resistance of tile based on testing by the Porcelain
Enamel Institute. This scale helps consumers select the right type of tile for a variety of projects.
PEI 0
Wall use only, not suitable for use underfoot.
PEI I
Wall use only in residential and commercial, not suitable for use underfoot.
PEI II
Wall and light-duty residential floor, often used in residential bathroom.
PEI III
Wall, medium-duty residential floor, often used in kitchens and living spaces.
PEI IV
Wall, heavy-duty residential and commercial floor, often used in entryways and office.
PEI V
Wall, heavy-duty residential and heavy-duty commercial floor, often used in retail and
ndustrial floor applications.