Frequently Asked Questions

Crossville has been manufacturing porcelain tile since 1986, making us one of the pioneers in the American porcelain tile industry. Our porcelain tiles seamlessly combine style and durability, providing timeless elegance and lasting strength for both commercial and residential projects. Our mission is to deliver creative and sustainable design solutions that focus on technical mastery, long-term functionality, and aesthetic appeal.

In addition to our domestically produced porcelain tile, we collaborate with select global industry partners to offer a diverse range of innovative porcelain, ceramic, natural stone, and glass tile options to meet all your surfacing needs. As the first American manufacturer to introduce large-format porcelain tile panels, we provide our customers with a wide variety of sizes and styles. Regardless of where our products are made, you can trust that all Crossville tiles are expertly designed, manufactured using advanced technology, and adhere to the latest sustainability practices for lasting quality.

Simply put, all porcelain tile is ceramic, but not all ceramic tile is porcelain. “Ceramic tile” is a broad term that encompasses tiles made from clay and fired in a kiln. Within this category, you’ll find both porcelain and non-porcelain tiles. While the terms are often used interchangeably, it’s important to note that porcelain tiles have unique characteristics that distinguish them from other ceramic tiles.

The main difference between the two lies in the water absorption rate. Porcelain tiles have a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less, making them denser and more durable. This is achieved by using higher-quality raw materials and firing the tiles at elevated temperatures—around 2200°F for porcelain compared to 1800°F for non-porcelain tiles. This high firing temperature causes the tiles to vitrify, or fuse together, similar to glass, resulting in a strong, dense body that resists water absorption, stains, and mildew.

Due to the need for premium ingredients, strict manufacturing processes, and higher firing temperatures, porcelain tiles generally come at a higher cost. However, this investment reflects their superior longevity, aesthetic appeal, and performance.

Porcelain tile has several notable advantages thanks to its dense composition and low water absorption rate. This makes it particularly well-suited for wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and showers, as well as for outdoor settings such as patios and walkways.

In addition to its resistance to water, porcelain tile effectively repels moisture, dirt, stains, and grime, allowing for easy cleaning and minimal maintenance. This quality also contributes to better indoor air quality, as it doesn’t trap contaminants that could affect allergy-sensitive individuals.

With its exceptional performance characteristics, porcelain tile is ideal for both residential and commercial applications, including exterior uses and areas with heavy foot traffic. However, it’s important to review the specific technical specifications before installation to ensure the product meets your needs. For questions about suitability for particular applications, please refer to the Installation Guides on our website or consult your Crossville representative.

Rectified tiles have precisely finished edges, allowing for uniformity and tighter grout lines. This results in a sleek, contemporary look and makes them easier to work with for intricate patterns. However, their straight edges require careful installation and can be slightly more expensive due to the additional manufacturing process.

Non-rectified tiles, also known as pressed or calibrated tiles, feature uneven edges and generally need wider grout lines. They have a more natural and slightly uneven edge that gives them a relaxed, traditional, timeless look. Their irregular edges can be more forgiving during installation since the grout can help conceal any imperfections.

Neither rectified nor non-rectified tiles are any better than the other. It really depends on the installation, the pattern, and the look that you wish to achieve. Rectified tiles are generally preferred for their ability to create seamless, sophisticated surfaces with minimal grout lines. Non-rectified tiles embrace a more natural aesthetic and celebrate the beauty of individuality and imperfection delivering a decidedly cozy, classic character.

In the United States, tile sizes are typically referred to by their nearest whole inch measurements, such as 6”x6”, 12”x24”, and 24”x24”. However, it’s important to note that according to industry standards, the actual size of tiles may vary by up to 3% from the nominal dimensions. This is outlined in article A137.1 of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). For instance, a tile labeled as 12″x12″ could actually measure anywhere from 11.64″ to 12.36″.

At Crossville, we provide both nominal and actual size information for all our products in our Fact Sheets. This transparency ensures you and your installer can achieve the best possible results for your project.

The manufacturing cost of porcelain tiles is influenced by several factors, including the rarity and origin of the clay, the tile’s structure and texture, the specialized equipment and technology used for decoration, and various performance attributes. One significant factor is color—both of the tile body and its decorative surface. For instance, very white clay is harder to source than red or beige clay, making it more expensive. Additionally, some minerals used to achieve specific colors are rare or require advanced technology, time, and skill to manage. To manage these costs, we often group these more expensive colors together rather than distribute the higher expenses across the entire collection.

The Tile Council of North America’s (TCNA) Green Squared® program provides architects, designers, and consumers with an easy way to identify sustainable tile products that meet strict environmental standards. Introduced in 2012, Green Squared is the tile industry’s multi-attribute sustainability standard, developed through the American National Standards Institute (ANSI A138.1) process. It serves as a reliable benchmark for recognizing eco-friendly tile products. With Green Squared, you get full transparency, ensuring that the tile you choose is genuinely sustainable—product by product, manufacturer by manufacturer.

The Green Squared standard evaluates products across five key environmental and social areas: product characteristics, manufacturing practices, corporate responsibility, innovation, and end-of-life management. To be certified, products must meet all mandatory requirements and a selection of elective criteria.

Crossville was among the first tile manufacturers to earn Green Squared certification for all of our Crossville-manufactured porcelain products. Just look for the Green Squared logo on our product details.

Sustainability is at the heart of our business, from the sourcing of materials to the creation of the final product. Since our founding in Crossville, TN, we’ve upheld the belief that products derived from the earth should have minimal impact on it. Rooted in our founding core values of family, respect, partnership, integrity, and continuous improvement, our commitment to sustainability reflects our belief that the built environment should promote well-being at home, at work, and in our communities.

Our sustainability efforts are guided by four key principles: 1) carbon reduction, 2) waste management, 3) transparency, and 4) partnership. To learn more about these initiatives and explore our sustainability certifications and rating systems, visit the Sustainability section on our website.

At Crossville, we believe there are four key reasons to buy our American-made porcelain tile: 1) exceptional quality, 2) geographic proximity, 3) support for domestic investment, and 4) environmental responsibility.

Exceptional Quality: Crossville is a world-class manufacturer, utilizing the latest global technical expertise to deliver top-tier products

Geographic Proximity: Our Tennessee location allows for quicker delivery and (very often) lower freight costs compared to imported tiles

Domestic Investment: Based in the heart of the U.S., Crossville positively impacts the local economy, supporting our community, employees, and their families.

Environmental Responsibility: The majority of our products are made in the U.S., where we not only meet but exceed environmental standards with eco-friendly practices certified by third parties. We manage every step of our manufacturing process to ensure maximum sustainability.

Tile can sometimes feel cool underfoot, but there are easy ways to add warmth to your space. While porcelain tile isn’t actually colder than other surfaces, its smooth texture can create the sensation of coolness due to increased skin contact. To enhance your comfort year-round, consider installing radiant or hydronic (water-based) under-floor heating. Your contractor can provide details on installation options and costs. Low-voltage electric floor warming systems are widely available, cost-effective, and energy-efficient. Additionally, incorporating area rugs is a great way to warm up your space both physically and aesthetically. With a variety of styles and sizes available, you can find the perfect rug to complement your tile and décor.

Yes, it is possible to drill a hole into porcelain tile, but it requires the right tools and techniques to avoid damaging the tile. Though porcelain is extremely hard and durable, a hammer drill could easily crack or damage the surface. However, a standard drill bit won’t work because of these properties, and you’ll need a diamond-tipped or carbide-tipped drill bit designed for hard surfaces.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Mark the spot: Use a marker or tape to indicate where you want to drill. Placing masking tape over the spot can also help prevent the drill bit from slipping.
2. Start slow: Begin drilling at a slow speed to avoid overheating or cracking the tile. Applying light pressure will help guide the drill bit smoothly.
3. Keep it cool: Drilling into porcelain generates heat, so it’s essential to keep the area cool. You can do this by spraying water onto the tile while drilling.
4. Finish with care: Once you’ve made it through the tile, continue drilling slowly to prevent cracking.

If you’re unsure about the process, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional to keep the integrity of your tile intact.

Yes. We have a tile outlet store located in Crossville, TN.

Crossville Tile Outlet
297 Sweeney Drive
Crossville, TN 38555 (Exit 320 off I-40)
(951) 484-2110
Store Hours: 8 am – 4 pm CST
Monday through Friday

Our tile outlet carries discontinued and select grade tile (“select” means it may have:  scratches, small chips, shade variation, or variances in size). We also carry setting products and transition pieces. All purchases must be made in person and are limited to 3,000 square feet per person.

Not all products are available at all times. We recommend calling to check availability and pricing before visiting.

The most critical step in maintaining Crossville products is ensuring the complete removal of grout and construction debris immediately after installation. Grout manufacturers provide specific instructions on each container for proper mixing, curing, and cleaning, and these must be followed carefully. Typically, Crossville porcelain tile can be cleaned effectively by scrubbing with hot water and a neutral detergent, followed by thorough rinsing. Be sure to remove the rinse water with a wet vacuum or by toweling it dry. If grout residue remains, consult with the grout manufacturer and Crossville for additional cleaning advice.

Some grout manufacturers offer specialized products for removing grout residue from tile surfaces. These can be diluted for light residue, or formulated with a stronger concentration for more intense cleaning needs.

For further details on initial cleaning and ongoing maintenance, including using aggressive cleaning equipment, acid-based cleaners, and tips for cleaning adhesion-based grouts and resins, please refer to our Care & Maintenance Guide for Porcelain Stone.

General maintenance and cleaning of Crossville porcelain tile varies depending on the tile texture and soil load. General cleaning should be performed first by sweeping or vacuuming to remove loose soil or other surface contaminants. Depending on the soil load, a more tailored cleaning process may be required.

In keeping with Crossville’s long-standing position on sustainability we highly recommend the use of low VOC, non-hazardous, and non-polluting products for cleaning and maintaining your tile and grout. A list of suggested cleaners based on the type of soil may be found in our Care & Maintenance Guide for Porcelain Stone. This guide also includes a six-step process for cleaning porcelain tile:

1. Clean up spills immediately with a damp mop
2. Wet mop the floors daily to keep them clean
3. Use the recommended dilution of detergent. Overuse of detergent makes it harder to rinse properly.
4. Allow the detergent to remain on the floor for the appropriate amount of time. The detergent solution must be given time to act on the soil load. Generally, 5-10 minutes is enough.
5. Agitate the floor while wet mopping to remove dirt. Use a nylon pad, bristle brush, or deck brush after applying the cleaning solution.
6. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove the dirty detergent solution and emulsified soil. This is a crucial step. Use a wet vacuum, dry mop, or towel to ensure the rinse water is removed. If not, a difficult-to-remove coating may form as the detergent dries.

In addition to the above steps, slightly different cleaning techniques should be administered for each of the surface textures offered by Crossville. These techniques are detailed in the Care & Maintenance Guide.

The grinding required to make Crossville polished porcelain tile produces microscopic surface pores. Penetrating sealers can fill these pores, making the tile even more impervious to surface staining, resulting in easier maintenance. Penetrating sealers do not alter the appearance of our Crossville polished products since they are designed only to fill the microscopic pores and not to coat the tile. Slip resistance also should not be affected.

Note:  For polished tiles, the use of a penetrating type sealer is required prior to grouting. Proper application of penetrating sealers is important. Follow the manufacturer’s application guidelines. Penetrating sealers are applied only once, and generally do not require constant maintenance through reapplication.

For Crossville polished porcelain tile, please follow these instructions for general cleaning:

1. Remove Loose Dirt: Sweep or vacuum the floor to eliminate loose dirt. An untreated dry dust mop may be more effective than a soft-bristle broom.
2. Mop with Mild Cleaner: Use a mild cleaning solution, applying 50% less detergent than you would for an unpolished floor.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the floor well with clean, clear water.
4. Dry with Care: Use a soft buffing pad cloth to dry the floor completely. This will enhance the shine and prevent water spots.

Crossville’s dense, low-absorptive porcelain is designed to resist penetration from top finishes, waxes, and most chemicals. Therefore, we do not recommend these treatments, as they merely coat the surface and can negatively affect both the appearance and performance of the tile.

Common issues associated with using top coatings include:

1. Wear Patterns: Over time, scratches and wear can develop on the finish.
2. Hazy Appearance: Applying a finish to a floor that hasn’t been properly cleaned can result in a cloudy look.
3. Uneven Wear: Finishes on textured surfaces may wear unevenly, affecting the raised and low areas differently.
4. Discoloration: Improperly applied finishes can turn a milky white color.
5. Appearance of Discoloration: Multiple coats of finish can create the illusion of tile discoloration.
6. Altered Slip Resistance: The finish may change the tile’s natural slip resistance.

When these problems arise, the finish must be stripped to restore the tile to its original condition, leading to unnecessary costs and labor.

Crossville porcelain tiles are generally resistant to both acidic and alkaline chemical products. However, hydrofluoric acid and compounds containing fluoride salts or derivatives can etch the surface of any porcelain or ceramic tile. Strong acidic or alkaline cleaners should only be used in exceptional cases, and always in diluted forms and under the guidance of the cleaner, tile, and grout manufacturers.

Concentrated cleaners or acids should never be used to remove grout haze or as regular cleaners for tile, as they can damage the grout and burn the tile surface by opening pores and altering its characteristics. Factors such as concentration, dwell time, and failure to neutralize after application can all increase the risk of acid damage to both tile and grout.

Crossville porcelain tile is crafted to the highest quality standards, guaranteeing superior technical properties for optimal performance in both residential and commercial settings. However, to achieve their full potential, proper installation is crucial.

To ensure your tile performs beautifully and lasts for years, it’s essential to work with experienced and reputable tile installation professionals. Here are some tips for finding the best installers in your area:

1. Narrow Down Your Options: Start by referring to lists from trusted industry organizations, such as NTCA and TCAA, rather than relying solely on online searches or the Yellow Pages. These resources can help you identify qualified professionals in your area:

National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA)

The Five Star Program recognizes NTCA members who have demonstrated a track record of providing successful installations. Earning Five Star recognition includes customer recommendations, peer reviews, and participation in continuing education and training.

Tile Contractors’ Association of America (TCAA)

The Trowel of Excellence Program recognizes TCAA members who have demonstrated a track record of providing successful installations. Earning the Trowel of Excellence designation includes reference letters, detailed project descriptions and photos, and employee participation in educational programming.

The Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF)

The Certified Tile Installer Program involves comprehensive testing of the skills and knowledge of experienced tile installers, including a multiple-choice exam and a hands-on test. Both are based on current industry standards and best practices for producing a sound installation that exhibits good workmanship. Consumers and designers can access the CTEF directory to search for certified installers, and the CTEF provides a Contractor Questionnaire to help evaluate and compare contractors.

2. Consult Your Distributor or Retailer: Compare the lists you’ve compiled with recommendations from your distributor or retailer. Your Crossville porcelain tile seller is an excellent resource for identifying reputable tile installers. Bring the lists from both sources to your sales representative for assistance in finding the right match.

3. Review Portfolios and References: Once you’ve identified potential installers, ask to see their portfolios, particularly focusing on projects similar to yours. It’s essential to ensure that your installer has experience with the specific needs your installation may require. Additionally, request customer referrals and recommendations. Don’t hesitate to contact these references to gain firsthand insights into the installer’s work quality, project timelines, and the performance of the installation since completion.

4. Educate Yourself About Tile Installation: Having a basic understanding of tile installation terminology can help you ask informed questions. While you don’t need to be an expert, being familiar with the fundamentals of the tile setting process and materials will boost your confidence in the project and the quality of work being done.

Crossville provides grout joint size recommendations for all our products in our Fact Sheets. For our rectified porcelain tile, we typically suggest a 3mm (1/8 inch) grout joint, while a 3/16 inch grout joint is recommended for our non-rectified porcelain tile. This guidance will help you and your installer achieve the best possible results.

Although there is no specific standard for grout joint size, the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) offers valuable insights. For more information, visit:  TCNA Grout Joint Guidance. Below is an excerpt:

In general, there is not a specific standard for the size of a grout joint. However, there are many relevant parameters that should be considered.

1. What is the amount of variation from tile to tile?
2. Are the edges of the tile linear or irregular (e.g. “hand-molded”)?
3. How big is the tile?
4. What is the surface of the tile; can it be easily scratched?
5. Where is the tile being used?
6. Is the surface level?

Ultimately, the project owner should choose the grout joint they desire, keeping in mind that a tighter grout joint will show more variation from tile to tile. Many people feel that a joint smaller than three times the average variation from tile to tile (or two times the maximum variation) tends to look irregular and poorly installed.

Tile spacing is measured between tile edges – not from the top edge of the bevel on the tile. The majority of tile made today has a beveled edge and grout should not be installed on the bevel. The bevel is often a glazed surface which is intended to transition from one tile to another. On some tiles, the installer must “hand-tool” the grout to keep grout off the bevel.

A common mistake is to set the tile too close. Often, the finished results look sloppy due to variations in the floor or wall and in the tile. Even small variations can throw off the pattern of the tile if adjustments are not made in the grout joint. Although 1/16″ of an inch may seem unimportant (for example, on a 12″ tile), it represents a 50% variation in a grout joint 1/8 inch wide. This would be immediately noticeable and unattractive.

Choosing the right grout color can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your tiled space. Here are some tips to help you select the best grout color for your project:

1. Consider the Tile Color and Texture

Decide if you want the grout to contrast with the tile or blend in. A contrasting grout color can highlight the tile layout, while a coordinating color can create a seamless look. Also, consider the texture of your tile. Glossy tiles may show grout more than matte tiles, so consider how the grout color will interact with the tile’s finish.

2. Think About the Room’s Lighting

Observe how natural light affects the tile and grout color throughout the day. Natural light can change the perception of color. Artificial like (warm vs. cool) can also affect the appearance of the grout color.

3. Test Grout Samples

Before making a final decision, obtain multiple grout samples and apply them to a small area of the tile. This allows you to see how the colors look together in your space.

4. Consider Maintenance

Lighter grout colors may show stains more easily, while darker colors can hide dirt but may fade over time. Also, consider your maintenance preferences. Some grouts and colors may require different cleaning products or techniques.

5. Match the Grout to the Your Style

Think about the overall style you want to achieve. For a modern look, a bold contrast may work well, while a classic style may benefit from a more muted, cohesive color. If you’re working in a period-style home, consider traditional grout colors that match the era. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from a designer or your tile supplier, who may have experience with grout color trends and recommendations.

After weighing all factors, make your final choice and ensure you’re happy with it before proceeding with installation. By carefully considering these tips, you can select a grout color that enhances your tiled space and meets your design and maintenance preferences. Grout is a lasting feature, so it’s worth taking the time to choose wisely!

For polished tiles, the use of a penetrating/impregnating type sealer is required prior to grouting. Proper application of these sealers is crucial, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Generally, penetrating sealers are applied only once and do not require frequent reapplication.

For unpolished tiles, we recommend performing a test patch before grouting, regardless of the grout color. This will help determine if the grout or its pigment could stain the tile surface. If the test patch indicates any potential for staining or difficulty in removal (especially with light-colored tiles and contrasting grout materials, such as urethanes, epoxies, or epoxy emulsions), it’s advisable to apply a penetrating sealer or grout release.

The answer to this question really depends on the size of the tile being installed. Industry standards now recommend a 1/3 offset for all tiles measuring 15 inches or longer on any side, whether square or rectangular.

The reason for this recommendation lies in the inherent tension present in larger rectangular tiles. This tension helps to strengthen the tile’s irregular shape, much like tensioned concrete slabs or flat heavy haul trailers. However, this can sometimes manifest as an arc or crown on the tile’s surface. While this characteristic is compliant with ANSI 137.1 specifications, it may necessitate adjustments to the tile pattern, installation method, or setting materials for optimal results.

For more information about installing larger rectangular tile, please see Crossville’s Technical Bulletin, Pressed Rectangular Tile – Large Format.

It’s important to understand that there are no tiles that are slip-proof – but there are some tiles that can provide increased traction. To that end, ANSI A326.3 is the standard for accurately determining the dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) on a tile surface. Developed by the Tile Council of North America (TCNA), ANSI A326.3 is a repeatable, reproducible method of measuring DCOF. This method uses a specifically engineered device to perform the required testing, ensuring the most precise results. The ANSI A326.3 is included in the latest version of ANSI A137.1 Specifications for Ceramic Tile.

Crossville publishes the DCOF range for all of the products that we recommend for floor use on our Wet DCOF/Safety Considerations page. Additionally, we publish our recommended Application Areas & ANSI A326.3 Product Use Classifications for each product to provide guidance to both the customer and their installer. While these classifications serve as general guidelines, they should not be the sole factor in tile selection. Various elements need to be taken into account to determine a tile’s suitability for its intended application, including the type of use, traffic levels, anticipated contaminants, maintenance needs, and expected wear. Special attention is necessary for tile selection in wet applications, considering the specific design and installation requirements.

For reference, the industry standard for tiles intended for level interior spaces that may be walked on when wet is a wet DCOF value of 0.42 or higher. However, hard surface flooring materials meeting this criterion may not be suitable for every project. It is the responsibility of the end user to consult with a design professional to select the most appropriate flooring for their specific project.

No, Crossville porcelain tile is a non-flammable material. After the tiles are processed and fired in our kilns, they become inert and do not release any gases. During production, the tiles are fired at temperatures exceeding 2200°F (1200°C), where they begin to liquefy. As they cool, the materials fuse together and solidify, gaining strength and hardness. The final product remains stable up to the same temperature at which it was fired, meaning it will not ignite or become combustible.

Additionally, Crossville porcelain products are classified as Class A building materials according to ASTM E84 – Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials. This classification is based on a flame spread rating of 0 and a smoke-developed rating of 0, placing them firmly within the Class A material range. Other building codes refer to this classification as Type I material in accordance with NFPA 255.

When embarking on a tile project, the amount of tile you need will vary based on the project type, tile size, and shape. As a general guideline, most installers recommend ordering an additional 10-15% of tile. This extra stock is beneficial for several reasons:

• Oddly Shaped Rooms: Extra tiles can help accommodate unusual layouts.
• Unique Design Shapes: Complex designs may require more tiles than initially estimated.
• Damage During Transit: Some tiles may arrive broken or damaged.
• Stock Availability: You may face supply issues if you need more tiles later.
• Unexpected Complications: Extra tiles can help prevent delays caused by unforeseen issues.

Not purchasing enough tiles can lead to significant risks. While Crossville strives to minimize lot-to-lot variation, different production runs can yield slightly different sizes or shades. Although these differences are generally subtle, they may be noticeable to a discerning eye. Another concern is the potential for product discontinuation. Crossville tiles are popular among designers and architects for their beauty, sustainability, and functional design, leading to a continually evolving product line that may see certain styles phased out.

You should also consider the concept of attic stock—extra tiles purchased and stored for future use in case you need them later for replacements or expansions. A common recommendation for attic stock is to set aside 10% of the total installed square footage.