Rectified tiles go through an additional process after being fired. Tiles are run through a saw on all sides to trim off the fired edge achieving a square, uniform edge. This process also calibrates the tiles making them perfectly uniform in size. In some cases, a micro-bevel is also added, creating a very clean finished edge.
Rectified tiles as well as their installation can cost a bit more than pressed edge tiles. This is due to the fact that both the production of the material and the installation are more labor-intensive.
If you are seeking a seamless look with as little grout as possible, rectified tiles are an excellent choice. This feature does not allow much room for error in the installation process. We recommend a leveling system to achieve a flat installation with minimal lippage.
Tiles that are not rectified are typically referred to as pressed edge tiles. Pressed-edge tiles have eased edges and sometimes vary in size from tile to tile. The finished edge is natural and directly from the kiln with no further process.
Fired clay material does incur varied shrinkage during the firing process. This is usually very minimal depending on the product.
Pressed edge tiles do require a larger grout joint while allowing some room for imperfection in the material as well as the installation.
