What is the water absorption limit for a vitrified tile?

≤ 0.5%. This is the defining characteristic for tiles in Group BIa, which includes vitrified and porcelain tiles (Table 3).

What PEI rating is needed for a commercial shop floor?

Class 4 (for moderate to heavy traffic) or Class 5 (for extra heavy traffic) is recommended (Annex B, Table B.1).

What is the difference between first quality and standard grade tiles?

First quality tiles must meet all specification limits. Standard grade (formerly second quality) tiles may have a maximum of 5% of tiles with minor visual defects and must be marked as 'Standard Grade'.

What is the minimum required breaking strength for a 10mm thick vitrified floor tile?

≥ 1300 Newtons (N) as per Table 3 for Group BIa tiles.

IS 15622

: 2017

Glazed, Vitrified and Unglazed Ceramic Tiles - Specification

CurrentFrequently UsedSpecificationBIMMaterials Science · Flooring and Paving

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This standard provides specifications for various types of ceramic tiles, including glazed, unglazed, vitrified, and porcelain. It classifies tiles based on water absorption and manufacturing method, defining essential characteristics such as dimensions, strength, abrasion resistance, and chemical resistance. It serves as the primary quality benchmark for ceramic tiles in India.

Specifies requirements for glazed, vitrified, and unglazed ceramic tiles for floor and wall finishes.

Quick Reference Values

Water Absorption for Vitrified/Porcelain Tiles (Group BIa)≤ 0.5 %

Modulus of Rupture for Vitrified/Porcelain Tiles (Group BIa)≥ 35 N/mm²

Breaking Strength for 10mm thick tile (Group BIa)≥ 1300 N

Scratch Hardness (Mohs') for Glazed Floor Tiles≥ 5

Scratch Hardness (Mohs') for Unglazed Floor Tiles (Group BIa)≥ 6

Crazing Resistance for All Glazed TilesRequired to pass test

Maximum Deviation in Length/Width for First Quality±0.6 % (max ±2.0 mm)

Practical Notes

PEI rating (Annex B) is critical for selecting glazed floor tiles; use PEI 4 or 5 for heavy commercial traffic, and PEI 3 for general residential flooring.

'Vitrified' refers to tiles with water absorption ≤ 0.5% (Group BIa), not necessarily a 'full-body' tile where the design runs through the entire thickness.

Always check the batch/shade number on all boxes before installation to ensure color, calibration (size), and tone consistency.