When you are designing or renovating your home, there are a lot of technical, interior-related questions that cross your mind. The most common one for instance, “Can I use wall tiles on the floor?”. Because all we know is floor tiles are for floors and wall tiles are for walls – nothing more, right?
To be honest, the difference between these two is not so crystal clear nowadays. With all the unlimited designs and high-tech features, the answer is becoming more and more confusing. Some say that ceramic and small tiles are for walls, and some say porcelain and large tiles are for floors. While the main question remains unanswered!
But, no worries. As always, we are here to the rescue! In this post, we are compiling the key differences between wall and floor tiles, and telling if one can work as the other or not. The answer would be a little technical, but you will get it. Keep Reading!
Differences Between Floor Tiles and Wall Tiles
Below, we are jotting down a few significant dissimilarities between these two before answering the actual question. Just to clear your mind!
Dissimilarity 1 – Ability to Endure Pressure
As compared to wall tiles, floor tiles tend to be more sturdy, durable, and strong. Because obviously, people are gonna walk all over them, so they have to be resistant to wear, tear, and pressure. While on the other hand, wall tiles are also durable, but they can not withstand a lot of pressure.
Dissimilarity 2 – PEI Ratings
The next significant difference between floor and wall tiles is their PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating schemes.
These schemes define how hard and durable the tiles are. For example, wall tiles have a really low rating because they are designed for very low pressure. For floor tiles, the ratings are always higher for high pressure and commercial use.
Dissimilarity 3 – Manufacturing
The next difference between these two is their manufacturing process, designing, and finishing. Wall tiles usually have a glossy finish with a high risk of slips. However, they still are water-resistant because of the hardened glaze on the top.
Moreover, wall tiles have different designs and embellishments on the top to look decorative and enhancing beauty. On the other hand, floor tiles tend to be simple, with close to zero design.
Dissimilarity 4 – Utilization & Maintenance Routine
As wall tiles are for less pressure load, cleaning and maintaining them is also an easy task. Also, you can conveniently use them for kitchens and bathrooms as they are known to be water and moisture-resistant. No matter how many water splashes – they can withstand it all!
Talking about floor tiles, they are also extremely strong and durable. They can withstand all the pressure, water, corrosion, and whatnot. However, cleaning and maintaining them can be a bit of a task.
Dissimilarity 5 – Size and Weight
You might already know this one – wall tiles are small and lightweight, and floor tiles are bigger and heavier. Moreover, it can be tough to install wall tiles on a vertical surface, but floor tiles can fix anywhere!
The Question – Can I Use Wall Tile on the Floor?
Technically, logically, and professionally speaking, we don’t recommend using wall tiles for the floor. Wall tiles are small and not so strong, so how are they gonna withstand the pressure? Too much pressure will only break and ruin their smooth and soft surface.
The differences between these two and their functionality are quite obvious. If you plan on interchanging their purposes, you are going to take a huge risk with your space.
Wrapping Up
So, the clear-cut answer to the question is “no”. Trust me; Your beautiful wall tiles won’t be able to withstand the weight of walking human beings. It would be best to use them for what they are designed.
Also, make sure to pour in your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below. You know we always love to hear back from you!
