Porcelain tile is a specific type of ceramic tile characterized by its impervious body and low water absorption—defined by both ANSI A137.1 and ISO 13006 standards as having a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less. This makes it highly resistant to moisture, wear, and even freezing temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor use, bathrooms, kitchens, and commercial spaces.
However, porcelain can’t be reliably identified just by looking at it. Mislabeling is common in the marketplace, which can lead to improper product use, failed installations, costly repairs, and liability for distributors.
To combat these challenges, the Porcelain Tile Certification Agency (PTCA) was created through a joint effort by the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA). This program provides third-party verification that a tile product meets the rigorous water absorption standards for true porcelain.
