The five "choices" of tiles

Tiles are important and long-lasting finishes in our homes. Most homeowners decide to purchase tiles according to their own aesthetic tastes and based on their financial resources.

The quality of the tile is often dependent on the brand and the recommendation of the seller. But how can you feel confident buying tile on your own, especially as a foreigner? Knowing the basics when going to the showroom can help.

There are four different qualities of tile on the market:

1. "Prima Scelta"' (First Choice);

2. "Prima Scelta Commerciale" (First Commercial Choice);

3. "Seconda Scelta"' (Second Choice);

4. "Terza Scelta/Reso Forno" (Third choice/literally "returned oven").

   
   

The naming scheme is quite obvious. Prima Scelta (First Choice) is the best quality of tile on the market. They comply with a specific regulation (regulated by UNI), which rigorously defines the dimensional tolerances based on the measurements of the tile. They are free from defects in flatness, meaning they are perfectly flat, and aesthetics of the finish. The quality also makes them very durable.

Prima Scelta Commerciale (First Commercial Choice) is similar to Prima Scelta (First Choice) but undergoes fewer rigorous factory checks. It respects the construction standards on dimensional tolerances like the Prima Scelta, and must be free of flatness defects, but may have slight defects on the finish. Prima Scelta Commerciale tiles are the most widely sold.

Seconda Scelta (Second Choice) tiles have clearly visible aesthetic defects ranging from an uneven finish to scratches or even chipping. They also have flatness defects in the center of the tile or at the edges.

Terza Scelta/Reso Forno (Third Choice) tiles are the poorest from a qualitative, structural and construction point of view and are consequently the cheapest on the market.

Obviously, Prima Scelta tiles are certainly the safest tile to purchase which, if laid by an expert, guarantees a result of the highest aesthetic and functional level. They are the best choice for environments where aesthetic quality is fundamental, but expect to pay high prices for this first choice.

The Prima Scelta Commerciale (Commercial First Choice) tile is a valid alternative to the Prima Scelta. However, there have been increasing incidents of Prima Scelta Commerciale tiles being sold as Prima Scelta. Often they are sold as "First Choice" quality (and price), once delivered to the construction site they present the characteristics of the "Second Choice" and sometimes also of the "Third Choice". This is why it's important to take an expert with you when purchasing tile. They can check the flatness and aesthetic qualities in the showroom before you purchase.

Seconda Scelta tiles can be used in environments where high aesthetic quality is not required, such as storage rooms, technical rooms or even garages.

My recommendation is to avoid Terza Scelta tiles entirely.

In any case and before tackling the final purchase of the tiles, my advice is always to involve the Works Manager and the person you hire to lay the tiles, who will certainly be able to direct you in choosing the right product, thus eliminating the risk of unpleasant surprises once the flooring has been laid.