Tile Thickness Explained: Choosing the Ideal Tile for Every Space
When it comes to selecting tiles, most people are concerned with color, finish, size and pattern. However, there is an additional parameter that silently influences tile performance: tile thickness.
There’s a simple assumption going around, and it seems to be: if the tile is thicker it must be better. But is that really true?
Not certainly.
The thickness of the tile determines its strength, weight, ease of handling, installation and application. However, selecting the appropriate thickness is more than just picking the thickest one. The appropriate thickness depends on the location of the tile, type of usage, and requirements of the entire installation method.
So, before we get started, let’s learn a bit more about tile thickness, what the different tile thicknesses signify, and if a thicker tile is actually better for your space.
What Is Tile Thickness?
Thickness of tile is the distance from the top surface to the bottom of the tile. It is usually expressed in millimetres (mm).
For example, tile with a nominal tile thickness of 8 mm has the description 8mm Tile.
The thickness is not the same aspect as the size of tile. A 600 × 1200 mm tile defines its length and width, and 8 mm is the thickness.
- Both specifications matter, but they answer different questions:
- Tile size influences visual appearance and installation layout.
- Tile thickness influences weight, handling and structural characteristics.
- Tile material and manufacturing quality also influence strength and performance.
Therefore, thickness should always be considered as part of the full tile specification not as a stand-alone indicator of quality.
Does Thicker Tile Always Mean Better?
The short answer is no. A thick tile has its benefits in some uses, but the thickness of a tile does not define its quality.
Depending on tiles can perform also factors such as:
- Raw material composition
- Manufacturing process
- Firing conditions
- Water absorption
- Mechanical strength
- Surface finish
- Dimensional accuracy
- Installation method
- Intended application
Take, for example, a good quality tile with suitable thickness, it can be great even in a home application. Just because a tile is much thicker does not by default make it the better tile.
Consider the thickness of the tile as one element in the performance equation — but not the entire equation.
Common Tile Thicknesses Explained
The thickness of the tile depends on the tile type and size, manufacturing process and application.
6–7 mm Tiles
Thin tiles are allowed and may be appropriate on a case-by-case basis for residential applications if the installation system and substrate are properly designed.
They are lighter, which can often facilitate transportation and handling. But when it comes to thirds, installers need to adhere closely to manufacturer's commands, especially for large formats.
8–10 mm Tiles
This spectrum is typically present for all the floor and wall tile applications in the modern era.
For example, an 8 mm tile thickness can offer a good functional compromise between weight, handling and performance provided the tile is properly manufactured and installed.
In most homes, the right tile thickness is the one that is suitable for the intended use and the technical specifications of the tile, and not the thickest that is available.
10 mm and Above
Thicker tile may be used in applications where the design of the product or the installation conditions require a greater thickness of material.
However, greater thickness usually means greater weight. This can affect the requirements when handling, cutting, transporting and installing.
Therefore, thicker is not necessarily better.
Why Tile Thickness Matters
Understanding tile thickness in mm becomes especially important when selecting tiles for a specific project.
Strength and Performance
Thickness may play a role in a tile’s mechanical properties, however breaking strength or modulus of rupture need also be considered.
Evaluate a good tile based on its full technical specification and not on thickness only.
Weight and Handling
A thicker tile is typically made from more material and therefore can be heavier.
It makes a difference when you’re hauling, lifting, cutting and installing – particularly with larger-format tiles.
Installation
The thickness of the tile must be compatible with the chosen adhesive, substrate and method of installation.
Large-format tiles also demand extra attention to substrate flatness, adhesive coverage and handling. As important as choosing the right tile is choosing the right installation system.
Floor and Wall Applications
The correct tile thickness for floor applications may be different from the thickness for walls which is acceptable.
Floors are subjected to constant traffic and load, and walls have other installation and weight considerations. Before installation, verify with the suggested application of the manufacturer.
Tile Thickness vs Tile Quality
One of the biggest misunderstandings in choosing tiles is, the thicker the better.
It doesn’t.
Think of two tiles of the same size but with different thickness. The thicker tile might look more solid, but that doesn’t tell you how precisely it was made, how much water it absorbs, how strong it is or how it will perform in the environment it’s designed for.
When you are comparing tiles, don't just take thickness into account, think about:
Thickness + quality of material + precision of manufacturing + technical performance + correct installation
That makes for a much more meaningful way of using tile specifications.
Choosing the Ideal Tile Thickness for Your Space
Choosing the appropriate tile thickness is not simply a matter of picking the thickest tile available. When selecting tiles to use in a project, it's all about selecting a tile that works for the area, for the substrate, and for the manner in which the space will be utilized.
Before deciding, consider the following:
Where will the tile be installed?
The performance requirements for floor tiles, wall, bathroom and kitchen tiles may be different. Select a thickness that is specified for the application.
How much use will the area receive?
Consider the amount of foot traffic, furniture shifting and daily load that will be on the surface.
What is the tile size?
Transporting, handling, cutting and installing large-format tiles may need more care and attention, no matter how thick are they.
Is the surface properly prepared?
For a successful installation the substrate needs to be clean, stable and level. Imperfections in the surface can cause tiles to misalign or affect their performance over time.
What do the technical details say?
Do not judge the tile only on thickness, but check on the total performance information such as strength, water absorption, recommended applications of the tile.
What does the manufacturer recommend?
Consult product guidelines prior to installation. The manufacturer's instructions will ensure that the tile, the adhesive and the method of installation are appropriate for the application.
Thicker Isn't Always Better
So, is thicker tile better?
No, not necessarily.
Thicker is not always the best tile. It is the suitable tile for the job, in terms of thickness, technical properties, design and installation related.
When choosing tiles for a modern living room, kitchen or bathroom or even for a retail outlet, don't just compare one number.
Because when it comes to tile the right thickness is more important than the maximum thickness.
Choose for performance. Install to spec. Then, let the right specifications establish a surface that is designed to perform beautifully for many years.