How to Identify Fake or Low-Quality Tiles and Avoid Them

Beware: Fake Tiles Lurk Everywhere

Tiles can transform a space. Could they not be what they seemed to be? Although they may look great at a first glance, fake or low quality tiles have a darker side that can surface later: cracks, uneven texture, a weak composition. And the worst part? Often they do manage to slip by even the keenest buyers.

Ever stared inside a showroom and thought to yourself, polished porcelain or ceramic that was perfect? Months later though, the nightmare begins with chipping edges, fading colors, tiles sucking water in like sponges. The hidden cost of choosing the wrong tile is that’s something.

In fact, whatever shade of your tile, a real tile passes scratch tests, water absorption checks, and certification standrds—things shady manufacturers conveniently forget to tell you about. But how then can one avoid spotting these flaws before it’s too late?

The key is, to understand tile quality tests, industry certifications and supplier credibility. Of course, a floor should last, not shatter under pressure. It is time to dive in and mask tricks of trade.

Red Flags of Fake or Low-Quality Tiles

Fake and low quality tiles may be harder to identify specifically, but there are some obvious early warning signs you will notice if you look in the right places.

1. Inconsistent Color and Texture

Both porcelain tiles or ceramic tiles, keep a uniform look. Fake tiles? Not so much. What you’ll get is blotchy colours and textures that don’t lay flat across the batch.

2. Uneven Edges or Cracks

Tiles with high-quality should have smooth, straight edges. That is a total red flag if the edges are rough or you can see visible cracks in the tile.

3. Lighter Than Expected

By being dense, good tiles will feel heavier. Light tiles can be due to being poorly made or hollow.

4. Thin and Fragile

Breakable tiles are too thin. A tile that sags, breaks easily or bends under slight pressure is not going to last.

5. Lack of Certification or Standards

You aren’t taking any into account and you’re just taking a risk. Check for certain brands that are certified so that you can rely on them.

Spot the Image Fakes Like a Pro Tile Quality Tests

Different tiles have different functionality. Some of them are durable, while the others become crumbs at the slightest pressure. How to cut the champions from the imposters.

1. The Water Absorption Test

A simple yet powerful test. Ceramic tiles or porcelain tiles that are high quality absorb very little water; low grade absorb a lot. If it disappears fast, drop a little water on the tile’s back and walk away.

2. The Scratch & Wear Resistance Test

Have you ever seen tiles’ shine disappear too soon? That’s poor wear resistance. Run a key or a steel object across the surface and try. Scratch off a good tile and it laughs, whereas a fake one bleeds right away.

3. In the Strength Test (Nobody wants cracked tiles)

Tap the tile gently. A clear, ringing sound? That’s a strong tile. A dull, hollow thud? It might crumble under pressure.

4. The Frost Resistance Test

Cold weather cracks low quality tiles. You freeze it, then put it under water and  if it breaks it is not built to last. These tests pass easily with real tiles. The rest? They are not worth your investment.

Certified or Counterfeit? Know the Difference

Not all tiles are created equal and the right certification for premium quality and not cheap knockoffs should be there. A tile’s durability, safety and longevity is anybody’s guess without proper certification.

Here’s what to look for:

• ISO - International Quality Standards – as ISO Certification guarantees international quality standards and ensures that the tiles meet strict performance criteria.

• CE- Essential for tiles sold in Europe in Europe because it indicates compliance with health, safety, and environmental requirements.

• BIS - The Tile can be marked with BIS Certification (stamp from the Bureau of Indian Standards), indicating its reliability.

Certified tiles undergo rigorous water absorption tests, wear resistance checks, and strength assessments. Fake or low-quality tiles? They skip these steps. That’s why sticking with brands that carry these labels is non-negotiable.

Platforms like Tileswale make finding certified, high-quality tiles easier than ever. Because when it comes to tiles, cutting corners now means paying the price later.

Finding Trustworthy Tile Suppliers

Not all tile suppliers are created equal. Some deliver top-tier, certified tiles, while others push low-quality imitations that chip, fade, or worse crack under pressure. So, how do you separate the real from the unreliable?

1. Check Certifications & Standards

• Genuine suppliers offer tiles with ISO, BIS, or CE certifications.

• Always verify whether the tiles meet water absorption and strength tests.

Certified tiles ensure durability, longevity, and resistance to wear.

2. Research Customer Reviews & Ratings

• A quick search can reveal a brand’s true reputation.

• Look beyond the stars read detailed customer experiences.

Beware of companies with limited online presence or vague product details.

3. Verify Physical Samples & Warranty

• A supplier confident in their quality won’t hesitate to provide samples.

• Ask about warranties genuine brands back their tiles with guarantees.

If they dodge these questions? That’s a red flag.

4. Use Reliable Marketplaces Like Tileswale

• Tileswale connects buyers with reputable tile manufacturers.

• Their curated listings help avoid fake or low-quality suppliers.

When in doubt, choose verified sellers from trusted platforms.

Choosing wisely now saves a fortune in repairs later. Don't let poor-quality tiles ruin your space.

Final Tile Check: Invest Smart, Avoid Regret

A tile isn't just a tile it's a long-term investment. And like any investment, it demands scrutiny. Choosing the wrong tile, be it a flimsy imitation or a low-quality batch, can lead to cracks, stains, and a renovation nightmare no one signed up for.

Quality matters. Look for industry certifications, perform simple tests, and always buy from trusted suppliers. A little effort now saves thousands later. Platforms like Tileswale make it easier by connecting buyers with certified tile manufacturers.

Don’t let cheap, subpar tiles fool you. Spot the fakes, choose wisely, and ensure your floors stand the test of time.