Tile Variation & Imperfections Guide

  • Tile Variation & Imperfections Guide

    (Shade, Texture, Size, Pits & Chips)

    Stone Products Unlimited believes that every tile tells a story, but, most importantly, each tile brings its unique character to the overall narrative of your space. As such, each tile in our curated collections is characterized by subtle variations and unique imperfections such as shifts in shade, surface texture, and size. The industry term: imperfections is a misnomer. These aren’t flaws; they’re part of the story your space will tell. 

    We want to help you understand everything you’ll need to know about your tiles’ natural variations and characteristics. That way, you can be confident about what’s intentional, what will work for your space, and what to expect from our products.

  • Shade Variation

    Shade variation refers to the amount of color shift you can expect between tiles in the same series.

    Level Description

    V1 - Minimal

    Mostly uniform with minimal shift in tone–perfect for minimalist or modernist design sentiments

    V2 - Slight

    Gentle tone shift, but cohesive when installed

    V3 - Moderate

    Noticeable tone variation that adds warmth and character

    V4 - Substantial

    Bold color variation between tiles–perfect for making a statement

  • Texture Variation

    From polished to smooth, tumbled to tactile, texture variation refers to how uniform or dimensional the tile surface is.

    Level Description

    T1 - Minimal

    Polished and smooth to the touch, providing a high level of uniformity

    T2 - Slight

    Barely-there texture that adds depth and quiet dimension

    T3 - Moderate

    Tactile without being rough, this texture has a hand-finished feel

    T4 - Substantial

    Bold dimensionality for a strong tactile presence

  • Size Variation

    Size variation refers to the level of uniformity between the physical dimensions of each tile.

    Level Description

    S1 - Minimal

    Consistent uniformity for precision-driven layouts

    S2 - Slight

    Barely perceptible variation in size that doesn’t impact the integrity of the layout

    S3 - Moderate

    Noticeable dimensional variation for an organic or handcrafted feel

    S4 - Substantial

    Intentionally irregular tile dimensions, contributing a rustic or eclectic aesthetic

  • Pits & Chips

    Pits & Chips denotes the amount of variation in surface irregularity to expect–surface pits and edge chips.

    Level Description

    PC1 - Minimal

    Pristine surface, providing a smooth and flawless appearance

    PC2 - Slight

    Characterized by minute surface pitting and soft edge chips, creating gentle nuance

    PC3 - Moderate

    Clearly noticeable surface pitting and edge chipping that engenders a tumbled, heritage feel  

    PC4 - Substantial

    Pronounced surface and edge irregularities contributing to an artisanal look

Conclusion

Stone Products Unlimited understands that a product typically marked by a wide range of variations and imperfections can elicit feelings of uncertainty. We encourage our customers to consider these variations and imperfections as essential variables that bring soul to a space. Though Stone Products Unlimited accommodates the pursuit of uniformity, our experts can also help curate a bespoke selection of tile variations and imperfections to help you build a space that resonates with a chosen aesthetic.  

Stone Products Unlimited encourages you to blend and dry-lay your tile to ensure that the character of your tile-set fits the narrative of your space before installation. It’s important to get a good sense of the full range of variation in your tile selection. 

Feeling overwhelmed? Reach out. Stone Products Unlimited experts are here to help you choose the right tile for the right space.