Chicago—Porcelain tile is different than traditional ceramic, and now manufacturers will have a way to prove it. The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA) and the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) are launching the Porcelain Tile Certification Agency (PTCA) to certify porcelain tile.

Porcelain tile is defined as an impervious tile with a water absorption of 0.5% or less as measured by the ASTM C373 test method. There are, however, many instances in which tile not meeting this standard is advertised and sold as porcelain. Representatives from both associations noted marketplace confusion, installation problems and even liability concerns result when non-porcelain tile is misrepresented in the marketplace.

In making the joint announcement, TCNA’s Eric Astrachan, executive director, said, “Under the program, manufacturers who want to prove their tile meets porcelain water absorption criteria can have their product tested to determine compliance. They may then use the PTCA certification mark on their product packaging, marketing materials and so on, as confirmation of that compliance.”

Industry leaders believe certification is the best solution to continuing concerns over what is and is not porcelain. “CTDA and TCNA leaders have worked together for some time [to develope the program],” said CTDA president Doug Miles of Miles Distributors. “Eventually, we hope porcelain certification will be the standard that defines all porcelain tile sold.”

The program is designed to benefit manufacturers, distributors and end users who are all impacted by the misrepresentation of non-porcelain tile, noted Astrachan. “Marketplace confusion currently exists over what is porcelain. Henceforth, porcelain certification will verify the appropriate absorption rate for porcelain tile.”

Distributors are responsible for the products they sell and statements they make, Miles said. If a distributor misrepresents the tile it sells as porcelain and the product doesn’t clearly meet the standard, the wholesaler could be subject to liability.

Manufacturers may apply for certification by submitting samples of each tile series and paying the related costs of testing as well as initial and annual certification fees. Recertification of tile at least every three years is required.

The PTCA will conduct the porcelain certification program, educate the public on the benefits of porcelain certification, conduct research activities and assist in the development of tests or test methods for porcelain, Astrachan said. The agency will be managed by a six-member board. As founding members, CTDA and TCNA will each appoint one principal director and first and second alternate directors.

For more information on PTCA, call 630.545.9415.