Porcelain Tiles: Difference Between First Choice and Other Grades

When buying porcelain tiles, one of the most important — and often misunderstood — distinctions is the one between first choice tiles and other grades.

Understanding this difference helps you:

• make a more informed decision
• avoid surprises during installation
• properly evaluate value for money

In this guide, we’ll clearly explain:

• what “first choice” porcelain tiles really mean
• what second choice and other grades are
• when they might be considered
• why first choice is almost always the best option for residential projects

What Does “First Choice” Mean in Porcelain Tiles?

First choice porcelain tiles are products that:

• fully meet all dimensional and quality standards
• have minimal tolerances
• show consistent appearance from tile to tile
• are free from relevant visible defects

In simple terms, they represent the highest quality level achievable in industrial porcelain tile production.

Main Characteristics of First Choice Tiles

• Consistent calibre (especially important for large formats)
• Uniform surface appearance (colour, texture, graphic consistency)
• Regular edges (particularly in rectified tiles)
• No visible defects after installation

👉 This makes first choice tiles ideal for residential interiors, open-plan spaces, bathrooms, kitchens, and modern living areas.

What Are Second Choice and Other Tile Grades?

Other grades (second choice, commercial choice, lower grades) include tiles that do not fully comply with one or more first choice standards, while still being technically usable.

⚠️ Important: this does not automatically mean poor-quality tiles, but it does imply compromises.

Common Issues in Second Choice Tiles

• slight size variations
• more noticeable colour differences
• minor surface imperfections
• less regular edges
• increased installation complexity

These aspects tend to be more visible:

• with large-format tiles
• with uniform looks (cement effect, marble effect)
• with narrow grout joints

First Choice vs Other Grades: Key Differences

Visual Quality

• First choice: clean, uniform, consistent final result
• Other grades: higher risk of visual inconsistency after installation

Installation

• First choice: easier installation, less waste, predictable outcome
• Other grades: more complex installation, greater attention required

Final Result

• First choice: “finished project” look
• Other grades: variable result, highly dependent on the installer

Price

• First choice: fair price for the quality offered
• Other grades: lower initial price, but not always true savings

The Myth of Saving Money with Second Choice Tiles

Second choice tiles are often perceived as a way to save money.
In reality, the overall cost may increase, because:

• installation takes longer
• material waste is higher
• the final result may fall short of expectations

👉 In a home, where floors and walls are meant to last for decades, initial savings often do not justify the compromise.

When Can a Grade Other Than First Choice Be Considered?

There are cases where using a grade other than first choice may be acceptable, when aesthetics are not a primary priority of the project.

For homes, renovations, and everyday living spaces, first choice remains the safest and most reliable option.

Why Choosing First Choice Porcelain Tiles Is Always Worth It

Choosing first choice tiles means:

• greater peace of mind during installation
• consistent and modern visual results
• enhanced value of the space
• long-term durability

Especially with:

• large-format tiles
• home renovation projects
• natural looks (cement, stone, marble, wood)

…first choice tiles truly make the difference.

Conclusion

The difference between first choice and other grades in porcelain tiles is not just technical — it directly affects the final result.

If you are looking for:

• visual consistency
• precision
• durability
• a carefully finished living space

👉 First choice porcelain tiles are almost always the right decision.