Ceramic wall tiles are typically around 7 to 9 mm thick. Smaller formats such as 250x375 mm and 300x450 mm sit at the thin end of that range, and larger formats such as 300x600 mm and above usually sit at the thicker end.
These are typical figures, not fixed rules. Each factory sets its own thickness for each size and press setting, so ask for the declared thickness in writing for every size you order.
Why thickness changes with size
A larger tile needs more body to resist bending and breaking, both on the line and in transit. Factories therefore press larger formats thicker. A thin large tile is more likely to warp in the kiln and to crack when handled.
Porcelain tiles used on walls are a different case. They come from vitrified lines and are commonly thicker, often around 9 to 10 mm for standard formats. The difference between the two bodies is covered in ceramic versus porcelain wall tiles.
Thickness and strength
EN 14411 does not set a single thickness for wall tiles. It asks the manufacturer to declare the thickness and sets a tolerance around it. Thickness does, however, decide which strength minimum applies.
For porous BIII wall tiles, EN 14411 Annex L sets a minimum breaking strength of 600 N for tiles 7.5 mm or thicker, and 200 N for tiles thinner than 7.5 mm, tested to ISO 10545-4. A tile just under 7.5 mm only has to meet the lower figure. Check the measured thickness against the report.
Strength in the standard is a minimum, not a target. Ask the factory for its actual test results, which tell you more about the body than the pass mark does.
Thickness, weight and logistics
Thickness drives weight per square metre. Since tile containers are limited by weight, a thicker tile means fewer square metres per container. The calculation is shown in how many boxes of wall tiles fit in a container.
Weight also matters on the wall. Heavier tiles need an adhesive with good slip resistance so they do not slide before setting. On plasterboard or light partitions, the total weight per square metre may be limited by the board maker's rules.
How to check thickness
- Ask for the declared thickness for each size on the quotation or specification.
- Measure several tiles from different boxes with a calliper, at the edges, not over the back ribs.
- Compare tiles from the sample with tiles from production, since a plant can press thinner to save material.
- Check that the thickness on the test report matches the thickness of the tiles you are buying.
- Ask for the weight per box and per square metre, which gives a quick cross-check on thickness.
A change in thickness between orders also changes the look of the edge and can affect matching with existing stock. The floor tile equivalent is covered in what thickness floor tiles should have.
Next step
We measure production tiles against the agreed thickness and check weight per box before loading. To set the thickness for your range, book a free sourcing review.