Rectified Tiles: Advantages, Installation and When to Choose Them
Rectified tiles are often associated with a higher level of precision and design quality compared to traditional tiles.
But what really makes them different, and why are they increasingly chosen in modern interior projects?
In this guide, you’ll discover what rectified tiles are, how they differ from non-rectified tiles and when they are truly worth choosing.
What does “rectified tile” mean?
A rectified tile is a tile that, after firing, is mechanically cut along its edges to achieve:
- perfectly straight sides
- precise corners
- uniform dimensions from tile to tile
This process eliminates the small size variations typical of non-rectified tiles.
👉 Result: much narrower grout joints and a more continuous, refined surface.
Price difference between rectified and non-rectified tiles
Many people wonder whether rectification affects the final price of tiles.
The answer lies in several concrete aspects of the production process.
1. Additional manufacturing process
Rectification is an extra step that:
- requires high-precision machinery
- increases production time
- involves stricter quality controls
2. More selective quality standards
Only tiles with high technical performance can be rectified.
This means:
- better raw materials
- greater stability during firing
- higher overall quality standards
3. More demanding applications
Rectified tiles are designed for:
- modern interiors
- large-format tiles
- continuous surfaces
- carefully designed projects
For these reasons, rectified tiles generally have a higher cost compared to non-rectified tiles.
The real advantages of rectified tiles
✔️ Thinner grout joints
With rectified tiles, it is possible to achieve very thin grout joints; however, for a correct and durable installation, a minimum joint of 2 mm is recommended:
- cleaner visual effect
- surfaces that appear larger
- a contemporary, elegant look
✔️ More uniform aesthetics
Thinner joints:
- interrupt the tile pattern less
- enhance effects such as concrete, stone, marble and wood
- create a more minimal and refined appearance
✔️ Ideal for large formats
Formats such as:
- 80×80
- 90×90
- 60×120
- 120×120
reach their full aesthetic potential only when rectified.
✔️ Higher long-term value
A surface installed with rectified tiles:
- ages better over time
- remains visually current for longer
- increases the perceived value of the property
Rectified tiles and installation: what to know
It’s important to be clear:
👉 rectified tiles require a more precise installation.
- a perfectly level subfloor
- an experienced installer
- greater attention during installation
💡 This is not a drawback, but a necessary condition to achieve a high-quality final result.
When should you choose rectified tiles?
Rectified tiles are definitely worth choosing if:
- you want a clean, modern look
- you are selecting large formats
- you want minimal grout joints
- you are aiming for a design-driven result
They are particularly suitable for:
- modern living rooms
- open-plan spaces
- contemporary bathrooms
- minimalist kitchens
When they may not be necessary
Non-rectified tiles can be sufficient if:
- you are renovating secondary spaces
- you prefer a more traditional style
- the tile format is small
- the budget is very limited
In these cases, the visual difference is less noticeable.
Rectified tiles: a conscious design choice
Rectified tiles require greater attention during production and installation, but they:
- significantly improve the final result
- enhance materials and surfaces
- create more modern, continuous spaces
- offer excellent long-term aesthetic value
👉 If you are investing in high-quality porcelain tiles, rectification is often the detail that truly makes the difference.