The Significance of Porcelain Tile Thickness

The thickness of a porcelain tile plays a leading role when choosing the right tile for 
a space. One size does not fit all. The application and function of a tile determine the right 
thickness to use.
The standard thickness of most applications of interior use tile falls between 8-10 
millimeters, or approximately 3/8 inch. It can be used for residential floors, walls, and even 
light commercial jobs. This thickness functions well with light traffic and weight and is cost 
efficient since only a standard amount of ingredients are necessary to make the tile. This 
thickness also pairs well with interior doors and not much retrofitting is necessary. It 
becomes the default thickness because it works well everywhere and it becomes the 
foundation of the tile that is displayed in tile showrooms.
Another available option is thinner 3 to 6 millimeter porcelain tile. Tile this thickness
measures larger in size and is usually sold as a slab. The benefit and disadvantage of these 
are many. The less the thickness, the lighter the weight, and for this reason they make great 
wall tiles. They do well on showers walls, accent walls, or fireplace facades you see in a 
book-match pattern. The lighter weight also makes them less expensive to ship overseas
and that can result in a lower cost per square foot. However, because they are thin, 
packaging becomes important when transporting them since they are much more likely to 
break. Comparing these variable will highlight the best time to use this thinner tile.
At the other side of the spectrum are thicker two to three centimeter tiles. These are 
usually used for outdoors on patios, as pavers, or on raised systems and driveways. These 
are able to withstand high load-bearing weight, they offer slip resistance, and weather 
durability. They make a great counterpart to interior nine millimeter tiles on this interior to 
continue the look to the outside. 
There are many reasons to opt for a thickness outside of the standard. Choosing the 
right thickness ensures beauty and performance. By selecting the right thickness, function
and aesthetic merge.