{"id":25173,"date":"2025-08-22T12:57:46","date_gmt":"2025-08-22T07:27:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.orientbell.com\/blog\/?p=25173"},"modified":"2025-08-22T12:59:57","modified_gmt":"2025-08-22T07:29:57","slug":"water-absorption-in-tiles-myths-vs-facts-orientbell-tiles","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.orientbell.com\/blog\/water-absorption-in-tiles-myths-vs-facts-orientbell-tiles\/","title":{"rendered":"Water Absorption and Tiles: Myths vs. Facts"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Homeowners and contractors often face massive financial setbacks because of choosing the wrong tiles for a particular project. While they give adequate attention to the tile\u2019s design, colours, and texture, they unknowingly overlook one of the most important technical factors \u2013 the <\/span>tile\u2019s water absorption qualities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This costly mistake often stems from the misunderstanding spread by prevalent tile-related myths. While few believe that all tiles are naturally waterproof, some think that thicker tiles have lower water absorption. These are all<\/span> tile myths that lead to poor material choices and costly failures.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you\u2019re planning to renovate your indoor or outdoor spaces with tilework, you should first read this blog. It debunks top <\/span>myths about tiles and water absorption so you can choose the right tiles for lasting performance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Many believe that all tiles are completely waterproof and perfect for installation in wet environments, such as bathrooms, kitchen sink areas, and swimming pool areas. In reality, it depends on the tile\u2019s porosity. Lower <\/span>tile porosity leads to lower water absorption rates.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n While lower porosity translates to greater water resistance, it doesn\u2019t guarantee waterproofing. Everyone should be aware of this fact because assuming complete waterproofing leads to inadequate installation practices. Proper waterproofing requires comprehensive systems, including appropriate substrates, membranes, and sealed joints. Tiles will only serve as the final protective layer, not the waterproofing solution itself.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you cannot afford to fit full systems, then use tiles with water absorption of less than 0.5%, such as <\/span>porcelain tiles<\/span><\/a>, as they’re very water-resistant but not 100% waterproof. Good installation and sealing of grout also prevent water damage.<\/span><\/p>\n Another common myth around<\/span> water absorption in tiles is that tiles with glazed surfaces don\u2019t absorb water. Glazing (a tile finishing process) is often mistaken for creating an impermeable barrier that eliminates water absorption. While glazing reduces surface permeability, it doesn\u2019t eliminate fluid absorption.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The glaze protects the tile\u2019s surface and simplifies maintenance; however, water can still penetrate through microscopic imperfections in the glaze. Thermal expansion cracks and exposed edges during installation can also facilitate water absorption. Hence, no one should rely entirely on glazing for moisture protection.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n A better option would be to invest in proper tile installation practices, edging sealing, and selecting material based on the actual tile absorption rating, rather than relying on surface treatments.<\/span><\/p>\n Few people believe that thicker tiles are naturally water-resistant. In reality, a tile\u2019s thickness has no relationship to its water absorption rates. Water absorption depends entirely on the material density, firing temperature, etc., rather than dimensional characteristics. Hence, in many cases, thin porcelain tiles can outperform thick <\/span>ceramic tiles<\/b><\/a> in terms of water resistance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you have limited tile knowledge, focus on the published absorption ratings and certification data of the tiles rather than their physical dimensions. Technical specifications, such as <\/span>tile\u2019s water absorption ratings, are more accurate performance indicators. Thickness should be prioritised for structural requirements and installation considerations.<\/span><\/p>\n Water Absorption Classifications (per ANSI standards):<\/b><\/p>\nMyth #1 \u2013 All Tiles are Waterproof<\/span><\/h2>\n
Myth #2 \u2013 Glazed Tiles Don\u2019t Absorb Water<\/span><\/h2>\n
Myth #3 – Thicker Tiles Have Lower Water Absorption<\/strong><\/h2>\n