Standards for tiles according to DIN EN 14411 - Quality features for sustainable floor coverings
1 Introduction
Standards play a crucial role in product quality assurance. This is particularly relevant in the field of tile production, where the DIN EN 14411 standard prescribes the technical, physical and chemical properties of the tiles.
Compliance with these standards is essential when laying tiles in public areas or in areas subject to high traffic.
In this article we will take a closer look at this standard and what it means for tile quality.
2. Technical characteristics of tiles according to DIN EN 14411
2.1 Surface finish and physical properties
The surface quality of the tiles is a decisive quality criterion. According to DIN EN 14411, it must be at least 95% error-free.
In addition, physical properties such as wear resistance, breaking load and flexibility are important requirements.
2.2 Water intake
Water absorption is another crucial factor when choosing the right tiles.
Tiles are divided into five groups according to their water absorption capacity. The water absorption describes how much water the ceramic material absorbs.
When choosing tiles, frost resistance and moisture expansion are also important.
3. DIN EN 14411 – Individual standards and guidelines in detail
3.1 Compressive Strength
The compressive strength measures the ability of the tiles to withstand compressive forces such as loads or impacts. It should be noted that the compressive strength must be evaluated in the overall system of tile and substructure. The substructure is usually the "weaker" part.
3.2 Frost resistance
For outdoor coverings, it is important to use only frost-resistant ceramic tiles. These must be resistant to long-term exposure to frost and weather conditions. Frost resistance is tested according to the EN ISO 10545-12 standard under specified conditions.
3.3 Deep Wear
The depth wear of unglazed tiles is measured according to the EN ISO 10545-6 standard. The abrasion is measured in mm² using a rotating disc and a grinding wheel .
3.4 Breaking Strength
The breaking strength is an important indicator of the durability of a tile under high loads.
Basically, the thicker the tile, the higher the breaking strength.
3.5 Water Intake
The ability of tiles to absorb liquid is called water absorption capacity. Ceramic tiles with low water absorption show the best properties under heavy loads. Especially with 12mm and stronger.
3.6 Chemical resistance
Another important aspect is the chemical resistance of the tiles.
The resistance to acids and alkalis is determined according to the test standard EN ISO 10545-13.
Aqueous test solutions as well as acids and bases are used, and the tiles are divided into classes depending on whether they are glazed or unglazed. Another important aspect is stain resistance according to EN ISO 10545-14.
3.7 Flexural Strength
The flexural strength is a measure of the ability of the floor tiles to withstand mechanical stress, such as being driven over by vehicles. Tiles with a smaller area and greater thickness show greater durability.
Tiles with a thickness of 9 mm are suitable for use in living or social rooms. For floors with greater mechanical stress, tiles with a thickness of 12 mm and more should be used.
