Absorption rate

The percentage of water a tile can absorb as compared to its dry weight is known as the absorption rate. It is used to determine the durability and long-term utility of the tile by analyzing its porosity and density. The lower the absorption rate, the denser the tile is.

Tiles that have high porosity are not water-resistant, which may affect the structural integrity and stability, especially in wet areas. A dense, less-porous tile is suitable to be used for moisture-prone spaces. Low water absorption also ensures a lower risk of staining, expansion, and water penetration.

Porcelain tiles, among many other reasons, are preferred over regular ceramic tiles due to their density, low porosity, and low water absorption levels (typically 0.5%), making them suitable for high-traffic spaces.  Understanding tile water absorption is essential as it helps you choose materials that fit your needs and requirements perfectly.

Absorption Rate Formula

The tile is first dried thoroughly using an oven to find the ‘dry weight’. The tile is then either boiled in water or soaked in water for 24 hours (depending on the time available) to calculate the ‘wet weight’. Once these quantities are available, the following formula is used to calculate the absorption rate:

Professionals often use a specialized absorption rate calculator to expedite the process, especially when they are dealing with many products and clients.

Water Absorption Rating Tiles

Water absorption rating tile standards are used to rate a tile’s absorption levels. Here’s a quick look at various absorption rates: