The wear resistance of the surface of ceramic tiles is measured according to the PEI (Porcelaine Enamel Institute) standard. This standard measures the wear class in which a tile falls and how well it is resistant to scratching dirt. The PEI value in tiles is examined by means of a tester, which runs over the surface of the ceramic tile with a rotating gear wheel. Using steel balls and aluminum powder as an abrasive, it is determined after how many revolutions there is visible damage. Based on this research, ceramic tiles can be divided into five different classes.

PEI 1: These tiles are the most sensitive and suitable for places where people always without shoes walk. For example, think of a bedroom† You can also use these tiles as wall tiles. > 600 revolutions

PEI 2: Applicable in places where people walk with soft footwear, with minimal presence of scratchy dirt. > 900 revolutions

PEI 3: Suitable for normal use and footwear, with minimal amount of scratchy dirt. These tiles are, for example, very suitable for the hall or kitchen† > 1200 revolutions

PEI 4: Applicable in heavily trafficked areas and dirty areas. For example, think of catering establishments and showrooms† > 1500 revolutions

IEP 5: Tiles of this class are suitable for very intensive use for indoor and outdoor use. These tiles are also frost-resistant: so can be used on a terrace or garden† >10.000 revolutions

See an example of the test device in the above image from Ceramic instruments!