This interactive tool will help readers easily look up technical requirements, compare the standard with international ones, and view practical application recommendations for Vietnam.
Exploring TCVN 7714:2007
The national standard for Ceramic tiles – Technical requirements, the foundation for construction quality in Vietnam.
Scope of Application
This standard applies to ceramic tiles manufactured by dry-pressing and extrusion methods, used for wall tiling and flooring in construction projects.
Tile Classification
Tiles are classified based on the shaping method (pressed or extruded) and water absorption (E), divided into groups from BIa, BIb, BIIa, BIIb to BIII.
Importance
Provides a basis for manufacturers to control quality, consumers to select appropriate products, and ensures safety and durability for construction projects.
Detailed Technical Requirements
Interact with the filter below to look up the main technical specifications for each tile group, classified by water absorption (E).
International Standard Comparison
Compare key parameters of TCVN 7714:2007 with ISO 13006:2012 to see similarities and differences, helping to position the quality of Vietnamese products in the global market.
Application & Recommendations
Choosing the right type of tile for each area is crucial for the aesthetics and durability of the project. Explore the recommendations below.
Analysis of the National Standard for Ceramic Tiles (TCVN 7745:2007): Application in the Vietnamese Market, Comparison With International Standards, and Recommendations
Introduction: Clarifying the Standard and Industry Context
Before delving into detailed analysis, it is crucial to clarify an important point regarding the initial request. Based on a comprehensive review of the Vietnam National Standard (TCVN) system, the standard TCVN 7714:2007 applies to ceramic tiles is actually TCVN 7745:2007, with the full title “Dry-pressed ceramic tiles – Technical requirements”. This article will focus on an in-depth analysis of TCVN 7745:2007. This situation highlights a potential challenge for non-specialists, including foreign investors or procurement managers, in navigating the complex TCVN system. The sequential numbering system can be misleading without access to the full standard title or specialized databases. This underscores the value of an expert report in providing clarity and accurate guidance.
Vietnam’s ceramic tile industry is not merely a building material manufacturing sector but a strategic economic industry with a significant position on the international stage. As of the end of 2023, Vietnam had 83 tile manufacturing plants with a total designed capacity of up to 831 million m²/year, ranking among the world’s leading producers. The market size was projected to reach USD 5.16 billion in 2023 and is expected to continue growing strongly. In this context, having a robust, modern, and internationally harmonized technical standards system is not just a legal formality but a core factor determining the industry’s competitiveness and sustainable development.
Part 1: In-depth Analysis of TCVN 7745:2007 – National Standard for Dry-pressed Ceramic Tiles
1.1. Scope, Purpose, and Historical Context
Standard TCVN 7745:2007 specifically applies to ceramic tile products formed by the dry-pressing method, including both glazed and unglazed types, belonging to Group B as defined in TCVN 7132:2002. This scope covers the vast majority of ceramic and porcelain tile products currently circulating in the Vietnamese market. This standard does not exist in isolation but is part of an interconnected set of standards, directly referencing TCVN 7132:2002 for definitions and classification, and TCVN 6415:2005 for test methods.
The issuance of TCVN 7745:2007 in 2007 was a significant milestone in consolidating and standardizing regulations. The standard’s foreword explicitly states it replaces five previous individual standards: TCVN 6883:2001, TCVN 6884:2001, TCVN 6414:1998, TCVN 7133:2002, and TCVN 7134:2002. The prior existence of multiple separate standards indicated a fragmented regulatory landscape, potentially causing overlap and inefficiency for manufacturers’ compliance. Consolidating them into a single standard significantly simplified the process, reduced ambiguity, and helped make quality control and certification more effective. This move reflected the maturation of the regulatory environment, responding to the rapid development needs of the construction industry in the early 2000s.
1.2. Classification System Based on Water Absorption (E)
The core criterion for classifying tiles in TCVN 7745:2007 is water absorption (E), expressed as a percentage by mass. This is a critical technical parameter, directly reflecting the tile’s density, durability, and suitability for different applications. The standard divides tiles into five distinct groups:
- Group BIa: E ≤ 0.5%. Corresponds to porcelain tiles, having the highest density, suitable for high-traffic areas, outdoor areas, and wet environments.
- Group BIb: 0.5% < E ≤ 3%. Semi-porcelain tiles, with low water absorption.
- Group BIIa: 3% < E ≤ 6%. Tiles with medium water absorption, common for residential flooring.
- Group BIIb: 6% < E ≤ 10%. Tiles with medium-high water absorption.
- Group BIII: E > 10%. Tiles with high water absorption, typically suitable only for interior wall tiling in dry areas.
Table 1: Classification and Key Physical Requirements according to TCVN 7745:2007
| Classification | Water Absorption (E), % | Average Flexural Strength, MPa (min) | Surface Hardness, Mohs (min) | Deep Abrasion Resistance, mm³ (max, unglazed tiles) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BIa | E≤0.5% | 35 | 5 (glazed) / 6 (unglazed) | 174 |
| BIb | 0.5 < E≤ 3 | 30 | 5 (glazed) / 6 (unglazed) | 174 |
| BIIa | 3 < E ≤ 6 | 22 | 5 (glazed) | 345 |
| BIIb | 6 < E ≤10 | 18 | 4 (glazed) | 540 |
| BIII | E > 10 | 15 (thickness ≤ 7.5 mm) / 12 (thickness > 7.5mm) | 3 (glazed) | – |
1.3. Key Technical Requirements
Beyond classification, the standard details technical requirements products must meet:
- Dimensional Characteristics: The standard sets permissible deviations for length, width, thickness, edge straightness, rectangularity, and surface flatness. These requirements are crucial for ensuring quality installation, especially for achieving narrow and uniform grout joints.
- Mechanical Properties: Specifies minimum values for flexural strength (modulus of rupture), surface hardness (Mohs scale), and abrasion resistance (applied separately for glazed and unglazed tiles).16 These parameters directly relate to the tile’s durability and lifespan under actual use conditions.
- Physical-Chemical Properties: The standard includes requirements for thermal shock resistance and chemical resistance, ensuring tiles can withstand sudden temperature changes and resist corrosion or staining from common household chemicals.
Part 2: International Standards – ISO 13006 for Ceramic Tiles
2.1. Overview and Global Importance
ISO 13006 is the leading international standard for ceramic tiles, serving as a common language for manufacturers, architects, contractors, and consumers worldwide. Its purpose is to ensure product quality, safety, and performance, thereby facilitating international trade by minimizing technical barriers and unnecessary testing. Compliance with ISO 13006 is often a mandatory requirement for accessing developed export markets and is preferred in high-value construction projects.
2.2. Core Requirements of the Current Standard (ISO 13006:2018)
The classification system of ISO 13006:2018 is fundamentally similar to TCVN 7745:2007, based on manufacturing method (extrusion and dry-pressing) and water absorption. For dry-pressed tiles (Group B), the water absorption groups largely align with the Vietnamese standard (e.g., Group BIa for E≤ 0.5%). However, the latest version of ISO 13006 defines key modern industry terms like “porcelain tile” and “rectified tile,” which were absent in older versions. This standard provides a comprehensive set of requirements covering dimensions, surface quality, mechanical strength (breaking strength, modulus of rupture), and resistance to various agents (frost, chemicals, stains, abrasion).
2.3. Key Evolution from ISO 13006:1998 to ISO 13006:2018
The changes between the 1998 version (which formed the basis for TCVN 7745:2007) and the 2018 version are not minor adjustments; they represent a fundamental response to major shifts in production technology and market demands, particularly the rise of large-format porcelain tiles. The evolution of ISO 13006 has closely tracked the technological evolution of the tile industry itself. The 1998 version did not even define “porcelain tile” or “rectified tile”, whereas current market trends are dominated by large formats (e.g., 100×100 cm, 120×240 cm). These tiles demand the high strength of porcelain and precisely ground edges for proper installation. Consequently, the ISO standard evolved to create definitions and stricter quality parameters for the products that modern technology enables and the market demands. Meanwhile, TCVN 7745:2007 remains frozen in the technological context of 1998.
Specific changes include:
- Stricter Dimensional Tolerances: Later versions of ISO 13006 significantly tightened the permissible deviations for length, width, and warpage. This is critically important for installing large-format, rectified tiles with minimal grout lines.
- Formal Definitions: Introduced official definitions for “porcelain tile” (fully vitrified tile with E≤0.5%) and “rectified tile” (edges mechanically ground), bringing clarity and standardization to these premium product lines.
- New Classifications: Added new product groups, such as extruded porcelain tiles (Group AIa), reflecting diversification in manufacturing.
Part 3: Comparative Analysis: TCVN 7745:2007 vs. ISO 13006:2018
3.1. Points of Harmonization
The fundamental approach of classifying tiles based on water absorption remains consistent. The main groups (BIa, BIb, BIIa, etc.) in TCVN 7745:2007 have direct counterparts in ISO 13006:2018, making basic product comparisons feasible. The types of properties tested (e.g., flexural strength, abrasion resistance, chemical resistance) are also similar, as TCVN 7745:2007 was based on the older ISO version.
3.2. Key Differences and the Technology Gap
Dimensional Tolerances: This represents the most significant technical gap. The looser tolerances of TCVN 7745:2007 (based on ISO 13006:1998) are no longer sufficient to specify and control the quality of modern large-format, rectified tiles that dominate current architectural trends. Using an outdated standard for modern products can lead to serious installation issues.
Table 2: Comparison of Dimensional Tolerances for Porcelain Tiles (Group BIa, E≤0.5%)
| Characteristic | TCVN 7745:2007 (Based on ISO 13006:1998) | ISO 13006:2018 | Significance of Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deviation in Length/Width | ±0.6% (max ± 2.0 mm) | ±0.3% (max 1.0 mm) | ISO 2018 demands twice the precision, crucial for narrow, consistent grout lines. |
| Straightness of Sides | ±0.5% (max 1.5 mm) | ±0.3% (max 0.8 mm) | Straighter edges minimize joint misalignment and create flatter surfaces. |
| Rectangularity | ±0.5% (max 2.0 mm) | ±0.3% (max 1.5 mm) | More precise squareness is essential for laying large tiles in complex patterns. |
| Surface Flatness (Warpage) | ±0.5% (max 2.0 mm) | ±0.4% (max 1.8 mm) | Reduces “lippage” (unevenness between tiles), ensuring a flat and safe floor surface. |
Source: Compiled from requirements of ISO 13006:1998 and later versions.
Lack of Modern Definitions: TCVN 7745:2007 provides no official definition or specific requirements for “rectified tiles,” a standard feature in today’s premium market. This creates ambiguity in specification and procurement.
3.3. Impact on Stakeholders
- Vietnamese Manufacturers: While compliance with TCVN 7745:2007 is necessary for the domestic market, it is insufficient to compete in high-quality export markets like the EU or North America. Leading manufacturers (like Viglacera, Dong Tam) must effectively operate under two different standards.
- Exporters/Importers: Exporters face a “compliance ceiling,” where meeting the national standard does not guarantee acceptance abroad. Importers of high-end tiles may find their products far exceed local standards, while importers of lower-grade products might meet TCVN yet still supply tiles with poorer dimensional stability than modern norms.
- Architects and Investors: Specifying tiles solely based on TCVN 7745:2007 for projects using large-format tiles can lead to installation problems like surface lippage and wide, inconsistent grout lines, compromising the final aesthetics and quality of the construction.
- Consumers: The standard provides a basic level of safety and durability but does not guarantee the high degree of aesthetic precision demanded by modern design trends.
Part 4: Practical Application and Market Context in Vietnam
4.1. Regulatory Framework and Mandatory Compliance
Although TCVN standards are typically voluntary, the requirements of TCVN 7745:2007 become mandatory through their reference in the National Technical Regulation on Construction Products and Goods, QCVN 16. The latest version, QCVN 16:2023/BXD, which replaced QCVN 16:2019/BXD, continues to reference and enforce technical requirements for dry-pressed tiles consistent with TCVN 7745:2007.
Therefore, all dry-pressed tile products manufactured in or imported into Vietnam must undergo conformity assessment and receive a certificate of conformity to be legally circulated in the market and used in construction projects. This process involves factory assessment and product sample testing by a designated body.
4.2. Current State and Trends of Vietnam’s Tile Industry
Vietnam’s tile industry is characterized by large production capacity, numerous domestic enterprises, and intense competition. It serves a vast domestic construction market while also being a significant exporter. However, there is a clear disconnect between market trends and the governing technical standard. The Vietnamese market is rapidly adopting global trends like large-format tiles, tiles mimicking natural materials, and products made with advanced technologies like Continua+ for large slabs and digital printing. Yet, the mandatory quality standard these products must meet (TCVN 7745:2007) is based on the technological capabilities and product types of the late 1990s.
This forces high-end manufacturers to self-regulate according to a higher, international standard (ISO 13006:2018) to meet market expectations, while the legal framework only ensures a basic quality level that does not reflect current market realities. The result is a de facto two-tier quality system: a baseline level required by law, and a higher practical level driven by the market.
4.3. Technology Application
Vietnam’s leading manufacturers are not technologically lagging. They have invested in modern production lines, digital printing technology for complex patterns, nano-technology for surface treatment, and environmentally friendly “green” manufacturing processes. This advanced domestic production capability further highlights the obsolescence of the national standard.
Part 5: Strategic Recommendations for Vietnam’s Ceramic Tile Industry
5.1. For Regulatory Bodies (Ministry of Construction, Ministry of Science & Technology)
Primary Recommendation: Initiate the official process to update TCVN 7745:2007. The target should be full harmonization with the latest version of the international standard, ISO 13006:2018.
Rationale: This update is crucial to (a) enhance the global competitiveness of Vietnamese exports by adhering to international norms, (b) raise the minimum quality level for domestic consumers, ensuring better performance and aesthetics, especially for modern construction, and (c) create a supportive legal framework that, instead of lagging, aligns with the technological advancements already adopted by leading domestic manufacturers.
5.2. For Manufacturers and Exporters
Recommendation: Adopt a dual compliance strategy. Continue to ensure all products meet the mandatory requirements of TCVN 7745:2007 (as mandated by QCVN 16:2023/BXD) for domestic market access.
Simultaneously, for premium product lines and export-oriented goods, proactively seek voluntary testing and certification according to ISO 13006:2018. This certification should be used as a marketing tool and a quality differentiator to justify higher pricing, gain consumer trust, and successfully penetrate demanding international markets.
5.3. For Architects, Investors, and Procurement Specialists
Recommendation: Shift from default specification to performance-based specification. For projects demanding high aesthetic quality and long-term durability (e.g., shopping malls, high-end residential complexes, projects using large-format tiles), contract documents should explicitly require tile products that “comply with ISO 13006:2018, Group BIa” (or other relevant groups), rather than solely referencing the TCVN standard.
Specific Action: Require suppliers to provide third-party laboratory test reports demonstrating compliance with the stricter dimensional and performance criteria of the 2018 ISO standard. This ensures the specified quality is delivered, regardless of the lower national baseline.
Conclusion: Charting the Future for Quality and Competitiveness
This report has demonstrated that while TCVN 7745:2007 played a vital role in standardizing Vietnam’s tile industry, it is now significantly outdated. Its basis on the 1998 version of ISO 13006 has created a serious “technology gap” compared to the current international standard, ISO 13006:2018.
This gap creates tangible consequences, fostering a disconnect between the dynamic, technologically advanced trajectory of the Vietnamese market and its static regulatory foundation. The path forward requires a coordinated effort: regulatory bodies must modernize the standard to reflect global realities, manufacturers must strategically leverage international standards to compete, and consultants and investors must demand a higher level of performance. Updating TCVN 7745:2007 is not merely a technical revision; it is a strategic imperative for the continued growth, innovation, and global integration of Vietnam’s world-class ceramic tile industry.