Debating the Dominance: ANSI Standards vs. Manufacturer’s Standards in the Tile Industry

Frederick M. Hueston  StoneForensics.com

As a stone and tile consultant I am constantly involved in litigation where the issue of which standards should I use the ASNI or the manufactures and it can be confusing. The question always comes up as to where the TCNA and NSI manuals come into play as well.

In the world of stone and tile installation, adherence to industry standards is of paramount importance. It ensures consistent quality, safety, and compatibility across different products and installations. The two major sets of standards that govern the stone and tile industry are the ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards and the manufacturer’s standards. While both standards play vital roles, there is often a debate as to which standards take precedence over the other. Additionally, it is important to note that there is a distinction between standards and guidelines, such as the TCNA (Tile Council of North America) Handbook and the NSI (Natural Stone Institutes) manuals, which provide valuable information alongside the established standards.

Understanding ANSI Standards

The ANSI is a widely recognized organization that develops and maintains standards for various industries, including the tile industry. ANSI standards are formal documents that establish specific requirements, measurements, and testing procedures to ensure uniformity and quality in product manufacturing and installation. These standards are typically consensus-based, involving industry experts, manufacturers, and other stakeholders to develop comprehensive guidelines.

Manufacturer’s Standards: Customized Guidelines

In contrast to ANSI standards, manufacturer’s standards often take the form of guidelines specific to individual companies or brands. These guidelines are developed by manufacturers based on their expertise, research, and experience in the tile industry. They offer detailed instructions and recommendations for product installation, maintenance, and usage. Manufacturer’s standards are designed to optimize the performance and longevity of their products while taking into account unique design features and materials.

TCNA Handbook and NSI Manuals: Supplemental Guidance

Alongside ANSI standards and manufacturer’s standards, the tile industry relies on additional sources of information, such as the TCNA Handbook and NSI manuals. These publications provide supplemental guidance, best practices, and technical recommendations for stone and tile installation and related processes. While not formal standards, they serve as valuable resources, offering practical insights and addressing specific challenges that may arise during tile installation.

The Interplay of Standards and Guidelines

The relationship between ANSI standards, manufacturer’s standards, and guidelines is complex but complementary. ANSI standards establish minimum requirements and serve as a baseline for quality and safety across the industry. They provide a common framework against which manufacturer’s standards and guidelines can be evaluated.

Manufacturer’s standards offer customized solutions and instructions specific to their products. In situations where manufacturer’s standards exceed the requirements of ANSI standards, they typically take precedence. This is especially true when these standards are developed based on extensive research and product knowledge.

Guidelines, such as the TCNA Handbook and NSI manuals, provide valuable supplemental information. They offer practical advice, troubleshooting tips, and alternative approaches to stone and tile installation. While guidelines may not have the same regulatory weight as formal standards, they serve as useful references for installers, providing additional insights and industry best practices.

The stone and tile industry relies on a combination of ANSI standards, manufacturer’s standards, and guidelines to ensure quality, safety, and performance. ANSI standards provide a foundational framework, while manufacturer’s standards offer customized solutions tailored to specific products. Guidelines, such as the TCNA Handbook and NSI manuals, supplement these standards, providing practical guidance and industry best practices.

Understanding the distinction between standards and guidelines is essential for manufacturers, installers, and end-users. While standards set specific requirements, guidelines provide additional information and recommendations. Ultimately, the harmonious interplay between ANSI standards, manufacturer’s standards, and guidelines ensures a robust stone and tile industry that consistently delivers high-quality products and installations.