When choosing tiles for living room, corridor or high traffic area, many buyers worry about one thing – will the tile resist daily scratches and wear? High wear-resistant tiles are designed exactly for this purpose, but not everyone knows how to judge the real quality. Below we share 3 easy methods to help you check the tile wear resistance before making bulk orders.
1.Check the PEI Rating
Tiles are usually tested by PEI to show their wear resistance level.
PEI 1–2: Only suitable for wall or very low traffic.
PEI 3–4: Good for most home flooring.
PEI 5: Best for heavy traffic, shopping malls, corridors, commercial projects.
When you look for high wear-resistant tiles, make sure it’s at least PEI 4 or 5. If the supplier cannot provide this, be careful – the product might not last long.
2.Do a Simple Scratch Test
You don’t always need lab equipment. Take a metal key, steel tool or sand grain and gently scratch the surface:
If you see obvious mark, the tile is low grade.
If the surface keeps smooth and glossy, it’s a sign of high wear resistance.
This trick is simple but very practial for first inspection. Many contractors use it when checking samples.
3.Look at the Glaze & Surface Density
High quality wear-resistant tiles usually have uniform glaze layer and dense body structure. Hold the tile under light:
If the surface reflection is even, and no pin holes, the glaze is good.
Knock on the tile: a crisp sound means high density, which also means better resistance to scratch and impact.
Dense tile body also helps against water absorption, giving longer service life in corridor, living room and public space.
Why It Matters for Your Projects
Choosing the right is not just about beauty, it’s about cost saving in long-term. Replacing damaged floor in shopping mall, office or family living room can be expensive and inconvenient. you reduce maintenance and keep a professional image for many years.
Final Tips
Next time when you select tiles for bulk order, remember:
Ask for PEI level.
Try a scratch test.
Observe te glaze and density.
With these 3 easy steps, you can quickly find the real high wear-resistant tiles, and say goodbye to floor scratch problems once for all.