Selecting the right tile thickness is essential for creating a lasting, attractive wall or floor. Tile thickness influences durability, installation requirements, and the overall finish. This article explains the ideal thicknesses for wall and floor tiles and factors to consider when choosing the right thickness for your project.

Table of contents:

• What you should know about tile thickness
• Ideal thickness for wall tiles
• Ideal thickness for floor tiles
• Factors to consider when choosing tile thickness
• How to measure total installation thickness

What You Should Know About Tile Thickness

Tile thickness is the vertical measurement of a tile, typically measured in millimetres (mm). This dimension varies based on the material, intended application, and specific tile design. The thickness impacts how well the tile performs in different settings, with thicker tiles generally being more durable but also heavier and sometimes more challenging to install.

In most cases, wall tiles are thinner to reduce weight and ease installation, while floor tiles are thicker to handle foot traffic and support heavier loads. Choosing the correct thickness for each application is vital to achieving both a functional and aesthetically pleasing result.

Ideal Thickness for Wall Tiles

Wall tiles are typically thinner than floor tiles, as they don’t need to withstand foot traffic. Standard wall tile thickness ranges from 3 mm to 10 mm, depending on the material and setting.

• 3 to 5 mm (extra-thin tiles): these tiles are exceptionally lightweight, making them easier to transport and install. Despite their thin profile, they’re often made with advanced technology that offers flexibility and durability. Ideal for backsplashes, decorative accents, and walls, extra-thin tiles suit spaces where low weight is essential, such as walls in bathrooms or kitchens. However, due to their thinness, they’re generally unsuitable for floors or areas with high impact.
• 6 to 10 mm (standard wall tiles): wall tiles with thicknesses in this range are versatile, affordable, and widely used in interiors. They offer sufficient strength for most wall applications while being manageable for installers. Suitable for most household wall applications, including kitchens and bathrooms, these standard-thickness tiles provide a good balance between durability and cost.

When choosing wall tiles, remember that heavier tiles may require stronger adhesive and a well-prepared substrate to prevent sagging or detachment over time. Consulting with your installer can help determine the right adhesive and application technique based on the tile’s thickness and weight.

Ideal Thickness for Floor Tiles

Floor tiles must be thicker than wall tiles to withstand regular foot traffic, the weight of furniture, and occasional impacts. Standard floor tile thickness ranges from 8 mm to 12 mm, though thicker tiles are available for heavy-duty areas.

• 8 to 10 mm (residential floor tiles): tiles in this range work well in residential spaces, such as living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. They offer good durability without excessive weight, making them manageable for most home subfloors. These tiles can handle daily wear and tear, including spills, cleaning, and moderate foot traffic.
• 10 to 12 mm (heavy-duty floor tiles): for areas with higher foot traffic, such as entryways, hallways, or commercial spaces, tiles around 10 to 12 mm in thickness provide extra durability. This thickness is suitable for high-impact zones, as the added material resists cracking and chipping better than thinner options.
• 20 mm and above (outdoor and industrial use): extra-thick tiles, typically 20 mm or more, are intended for outdoor areas like patios, pool decks, or commercial installations in high-traffic settings. These tiles are built to withstand extreme weather and high-impact conditions. Due to their weight and strength, they require specialised installation techniques and adhesives, making professional installation highly advisable.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Tile Thickness

1. Application and Use

Consider where the tile will be installed and how it will be used. For example, in a bathroom, thinner tiles may work well for walls, but thicker tile is recommended for floors due to the regular exposure to moisture and foot traffic. Similarly, outdoor tiles need to be thicker to withstand temperature fluctuations and potential impact.

2. Material Type

Different tile materials vary in density and durability, affecting the required thickness. Porcelain and natural stone tiles are typically denser than ceramic tiles, so they may be available in slightly thicker profiles for increased durability. Natural stone tiles like marble or granite often require additional thickness to prevent breakage.

• Ceramic Tiles: generally range from 6 mm to 10 mm for walls and floors. Ceramic tiles are affordable and easy to install, but they may not be as resilient as porcelain or natural stone in high-traffic areas.
• Porcelain Tiles: typically between 8 mm and 12 mm, porcelain tiles are harder and denser than ceramic, making them suitable for both residential and commercial floors. They are also commonly used for walls in moist environments like bathrooms. Besides bathrooms, porcelain tiles are also a great option for kitchens.
• Natural Stone Tiles: these tiles, such as marble, granite, or slate, are often thicker (10 mm to 20 mm or more) due to their heavier weight and specific density. Thicker stone tiles are generally reserved for floors or areas where strength and durability are necessary.

3. Underlayment and Adhesives

Tile installation requires a base layer, underlayment, and adhesive. These additional layers contribute to the total thickness of the installation, which may influence your choice of tile thickness.

• Underlayment: This layer supports the tile and provides a level surface. For floor tiles, common underlayments like cement board add approximately 6 mm or more to the overall thickness.
• Adhesive: Tile adhesives, especially thin-set mortar, add around 3 mm to the total installation thickness. Choosing the right adhesive for the tile material and thickness is essential to ensure a durable installation.

4. Weight and Structural Capacity

Heavier tiles require more structural support, especially on walls or upper floors. For instance, installing thick natural stone tiles on a wall may require reinforced support to prevent detachment. Checking with a professional or your installer can help confirm if your subfloor or wall structure can handle the tile weight without risk.

5. Cost Implications

Thicker tiles generally cost more due to additional material and manufacturing complexity. They can also increase installation costs because thicker tiles may require specialised tools and more skill to cut and install properly. If you’re working with a budget, consider whether thicker tiles are necessary for your application or if standard thicknesses will suffice.

How to Measure Total Installation Thickness

To calculate the total thickness for your tile installation, consider the tile itself, adhesive, and underlayment if needed. Here’s a quick formula:

Total Thickness = Tile Thickness + Adhesive Thickness + Underlayment Thickness

For example, if you’re installing a 10 mm porcelain tile on a floor with a 3 mm adhesive layer and a 6 mm cement board underlayment, the total thickness would be 19 mm. Accounting for total thickness is crucial, particularly in areas where height transitions are important, such as doorways.

Conclusion

Choosing the correct tile thickness is essential for a successful, long-lasting installation. Wall tiles are typically thinner, ranging from 3 mm to 10 mm, with extra-thin options for low-weight applications and standard thicknesses for most interiors. Floor tiles generally require thicker profiles, starting around 8 mm for residential spaces and reaching 20 mm or more for high-traffic or outdoor areas.

Understanding your application, material needs, and structural requirements will guide you in selecting the appropriate tile thickness. Carefully consider these factors to ensure that your tiles provide both the durability and appearance you desire for years to come.