What Tile to Use Where?
PEI Ratings for Commercial Spaces

Selecting the right tile for commercial environments is crucial for aesthetics and durability. High foot traffic areas demand materials that can withstand constant use without compromising style. Understanding the PEI rating system helps you choose tiles that meet the specific needs of your commercial space. This guide will walk you through PEI ratings and how to select the perfect tile for your project.

What Is a Good PEI Rating for Commercial Tile?

The Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) rating measures a tile’s hardness and resistance to wear. For commercial areas with moderate to heavy foot traffic, tiles with a PEI rating of 3 or 4 are ideal. These ratings ensure the tile can handle the demands of commercial environments like offices, retail stores, and restaurants. Investing in tiles with a higher PEI rating guarantees longevity and reduces long-term maintenance costs.

How to Find a Tile’s PEI Rating

Manufacturers assign PEI ratings based on standardized tests established by the Porcelain Enamel Institute. While there isn’t a universal database for these ratings, you can find this information in the manufacturer’s product specifications. At UMORE, we provide clear PEI ratings for our tiles, enabling you to make informed decisions tailored to your commercial needs.

What Is a PEI Rating Class?

PEI ratings are categorized into classes from 1 to 5, indicating the tile’s suitability for different environments:

• Class 1 (PEI 1): No foot traffic
• Class 2 (PEI 2): Light traffic
• Class 3 (PEI 3): Moderate traffic
• Class 4 (PEI 4): Moderate to heavy traffic
• Class 5 (PEI 5): Heavy to extra heavy traffic

Understanding these classes helps you select tiles that align with the specific demands of your commercial space.

How to Choose the Right Materials Based on PEI Ratings

When choosing tiles for commercial use, align the PEI rating with the area’s foot traffic and usage:

• Retail Stores and Restaurants: Tiles with a PEI rating of 3 or 4 are suitable for handling customer traffic.
• Office Spaces: A PEI rating of 4 is appropriate for moderate foot traffic common in office environments.
• Hotel Lobbies and Corridors: Tiles with a PEI rating of 3 or 4 ensure durability and maintain a polished look.

Selecting the correct PEI rating ensures your flooring remains attractive and functional.

Classico 1 Herringbone Mosaic Tile

The Classico 1 Herringbone Mosaic Tile offers elegance suitable for commercial spaces seeking a sophisticated touch. Its intricate herringbone pattern enhances visual appeal in areas like hotel reception desks or feature walls. While it has a lower PEI rating, making it ideal for wall applications or areas with minimal foot traffic, it excels as a decorative element in upscale commercial settings.

Classico 5 Porcelain Mosaic Tile

The Classico 5 Porcelain Mosaic Tile combines style with durability. With a PEI rating of 4, it is designed to withstand moderate to heavy foot traffic typical in commercial settings like offices, boutiques, and restaurants. Its porcelain composition offers excellent resistance to scratches and stains. The tile’s timeless design complements various interior styles, making it a versatile choice for different commercial applications.

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Understanding PEI ratings empowers you to make informed decisions for your commercial spaces. Selecting tiles with the appropriate PEI rating ensures durability, reduces maintenance costs, and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.

Whether you’re drawn to the sophisticated design of Classico 1 for accent walls or the robust durability of Classico 5 for flooring, UMORE is committed to providing quality solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us to get started on your tile journey, or dive into inspiration by browsing our collections.