Tile is beautiful, no doubt—but not all tiles are created equal. Before you fall in love with a specific look, it’s important to know how it holds up under pressure. At APW Flooring, we help homeowners make smart choices that blend style with strength.
The first rule of tile: form should never outrun function. That glossy ceramic might look perfect in a Pinterest board, but if it’s going in your high-traffic entryway, it might not be the best fit.
Let’s break it down:
Porcelain vs. ceramic
Porcelain is denser, harder, and less porous than ceramic. That makes it better suited for floors, especially in wet or heavy-use areas. Ceramic, while great for walls and backsplashes, is usually more fragile and can chip under pressure.
PEI rating matters
The Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) rating tells you how durable the tile surface is. A PEI 3 rating is fine for moderate use, but for kitchens, entryways, or bathrooms, go with PEI 4 or 5.
Slip resistance
Look for the COF (Coefficient of Friction) rating. Higher is better if you’re tiling a bathroom, mudroom, or outdoor space. Many newer tiles come with built-in texture for extra grip.
Rectified edges vs. pressed tiles
Rectified tiles are mechanically cut for sharper, cleaner edges. They allow for smaller grout lines, giving you a sleeker look. Pressed tiles have slightly rounded edges and tend to look more traditional.
Think about climate
North Carolina humidity can mess with certain materials. Porcelain holds up better to moisture and temperature swings, especially in basements, sunrooms, or outdoor patios.
Installation is everything
Even the toughest tile can fail if it’s installed incorrectly. At APW Flooring, our team handles every step, from subfloor prep to precise layout and grout sealing.
Durability doesn’t mean boring. Today’s toughest tiles come in wood looks, concrete finishes, bold colors, and organic textures. You don’t have to sacrifice style for strength—you just need expert guidance.
Whether you're tiling a bathroom, kitchen, foyer, or entire first floor, we’ll help you make informed choices that last. Homeowners across Angier, Lillington, Fuquay-Varina, Dunn, Holly Springs, Willow Spring, Kennebec, Chalybeate Springs, Kipling, and Buies Creek trust us to deliver floors that perform as beautifully as they look.
