Natural stone tiles come in a wide range of types, compositions, patterns, and colors. One factor that greatly influences both their price and quality is sorting – a process you’ll want to pay attention to when selecting tiles. Traditionally handled by tile manufacturing facilities, sorting ensures consistency and enhances the final look of any project.
Standard Stones offers a highly accurate Tile Sorter and Scanner, which uses artificial intelligence to perform color shade sorting, streamlining the process and delivering top–quality results. Below, you’ll learn about the importance of sorting, its benefits, and how it works.
What Is Tile Sorting?
In simple terms, tile sorting is the classification of natural stone tiles after they have been cut and processed. Once tiles are produced, their color shades and patterns become more pronounced, revealing a range of variations.
During sorting, tiles with similar characteristics (such as color shade or pattern) are grouped together. Natural stones such as travertine and marble have numerous varieties – especially those with intricate designs or multiple color shades – requiring more detailed sorting. Others, such as granite, are easier to classify and often fall into just two or three categories.
How Is Tile Sorting Done?
Traditionally, many facilities have relied on manual human inspection, which is time–consuming and prone to errors. Fatigue, along with variations in lighting conditions (e.g., daytime vs. nighttime, direct sunlight vs. cloudy skies), can affect how colors are perceived, leading to inconsistent outcomes.
A more efficient alternative is the Tile Sorter and Scanner, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) for color shade sorting. AI analyzes multiple images of each tile to identify characteristics such as color variation and pattern. It then automatically categorizes tiles, eliminating the need for manual inspection and significantly improving consistency.
Other Common Sorting Criteria
Tiles are typically sorted based on one or more of the following factors:
- Pattern and Design: Different tile batches can vary in design and hue. During sorting, tiles with similar base colors or patterns are grouped together.
- Dimensions: Size is crucial for any project. Many installations use tiles that are 40 cm in width (with flexible length), although dimensions vary depending on the application.
- Grade: Factors such as the absence of cracks or stains, well–finished edges, and a consistent, polished surface contribute to a tile’s overall grade.
- Thickness: Thickness matters, too. Floor tiles, for instance, may require different thicknesses compared to wall or facade tiles.
What Is a “Sorted Tile”?
A sorted tile is one that has been classified based on specific criteria (such as color shade or pattern) after being cut and processed. All tiles in the same batch will share these defining features.
Why Sort Natural Stone Tiles?
Sorting simplifies the process of choosing and installing tiles in construction or renovation projects. For example, when selecting floor tiles, improper sorting can result in a mismatched or patchy–looking floor (photo below). The same applies to wall installations and exterior facades, where proper sorting ensures a cohesive, professional finish.
Venice Marco Polo Airport, Italy
Benefits of Sorting Tiles
Sorting plays a crucial role in meeting both residential and commercial demands. Here’s why sorted tiles are highly valued:
- Easier Selection: Buyers can quickly find the style they are looking for.
- Greater Appeal: Uniform, consistent batches are more attractive to customers.
- Polished Appearance: Ideal for achieving a seamless, cohesive look.
- Increased Value for Sellers: Well–sorted tiles can command higher prices.
- Better for Export Markets: Consistent quality and appearance are essential for international buyers.
- Optimized Inventory Management: Automated sorting helps organize stock more efficiently.
- Improved Production Efficiency: AI–driven sorting reduces errors and saves time.
Purchasing a Tile Sorter from Standard Stones
Investing in a Tile Sorter with AI-powered color shade sorting is a reliable and efficient way to categorize tiles. This technology saves time, reduces labor costs, and strengthens the reputation of tile manufacturers by ensuring consistent results. Additionally, sorted tiles remain in high demand due to their uniform, visually appealing finish.
If you’re looking to purchase a Tile Sorter, Standard Stones can assist you. Their experts will guide you from your initial inquiry through post–purchase support, ensuring that all your questions and concerns are addressed promptly.
