Quarry Tile
Clearance Tile, Outlet Prices, National Delivery
Quarry Tile: Built for Performance, Not Trends
Quarry tile is one of the most durable and time-tested flooring materials available. Designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, moisture, grease, and temperature extremes, quarry tile is a staple in commercial, industrial, and institutional environments. At Daltile Outlet, we offer quarry tile at outlet pricing, including surplus, discontinued, and hard-to-find options—many of which are manufactured by Daltile.
While quarry tile may not follow fast-changing design trends, it excels where performance, safety, and longevity matter most.
What Is Quarry Tile?
Quarry tile is a dense, unglazed clay tile formed through extrusion and fired at extremely high temperatures. Unlike ceramic or porcelain tile designed primarily for aesthetics, quarry tile is engineered for function-first environments.
Key Characteristics of Quarry Tile
- Unglazed, natural clay surface
- Extremely low slip potential
- High resistance to chemicals and grease
- Withstands heavy equipment and rolling loads
- Performs in both indoor and outdoor environments
Because it is unglazed, quarry tile maintains traction even when wet—making it a preferred choice for safety-critical areas.
Quarry Tile by the Numbers (Industry Facts)
- Quarry tile is rated for some of the highest PEI wear classifications
- Commonly specified in commercial kitchens, food processing facilities, and breweries
- Properly installed quarry tile flooring can last 40–60 years
- Slip resistance ratings often exceed ADA and OSHA safety recommendations
These performance metrics explain why quarry tile remains an industry standard in demanding environments.
Where Quarry Tile Is Commonly Used
Commercial Kitchens & Restaurants
Quarry tile is widely used in:
- Restaurant kitchens
- Food prep areas
- Dishwashing stations
Its resistance to grease, moisture, and thermal shock makes it ideal for health-code-sensitive environments.
Breweries & Wineries
Quarry tile handles:
- Constant moisture
- Heavy equipment
- Cleaning chemicals
This makes it a popular choice for breweries, wineries, and beverage production facilities.
Outdoor & Patio Applications
Because quarry tile:
- Resists freeze-thaw cycles
- Maintains traction outdoors
- Doesn’t rely on surface glazing
It performs well in patios, walkways, and transitional indoor-outdoor spaces.
Industrial & Institutional Facilities
Quarry tile is often specified in:
- Schools and universities
- Hospitals
- Manufacturing facilities
- Public restrooms
Durability and low maintenance make it cost-effective over time.
Types of Quarry Tile You May Find at Our Outlet
Outlet inventory varies, but commonly includes:
Standard Unglazed Quarry Tile
Typically available in:
- Red
- Brown
- Gray
- Earth-tone variations
These colors come from natural clay compositions rather than surface coatings.
Slip-Resistant Textured Quarry Tile
Textured surfaces provide additional grip in wet or greasy environments.
Quarry Tile with Cove Base Options
Cove base quarry tile is frequently used in commercial kitchens to create seamless wall-to-floor transitions for sanitation compliance.
Large Format & Specialty Sizes
Some surplus runs include non-standard sizes, ideal for specific project requirements.
Why Quarry Tile Is Ideal for Outlet Purchasing
Quarry tile is frequently available at outlet pricing because:
- Commercial projects often over-order material
- Institutional jobs leave unused pallet quantities
- Color variations are discontinued despite identical performance
- Packaging or batch changes result in surplus inventory
These factors allow buyers to source commercial-grade tile at significant savings, especially for large projects.
Installation Considerations for Quarry Tile
Quarry tile installation differs slightly from residential tile projects and should be handled by experienced installers.
Installation Best Practices
- Use heavy-duty thinset or mortar beds
- Ensure proper substrate preparation
- Allow adequate expansion joints
- Use compatible grout designed for commercial environments
Improper installation—not tile quality—is the most common cause of quarry tile failures.
Maintenance & Cleaning Tips
One of quarry tile’s biggest advantages is its low maintenance profile.
Recommended Care
- Regular sweeping and mopping
- Use degreasers approved for unglazed tile
- Periodic deep cleaning for commercial settings
Optional sealing may be used to reduce staining in high-grease environments, though many facilities leave quarry tile unsealed for maximum traction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is quarry tile only for commercial use?
While most common in commercial settings, quarry tile can also be used in residential garages, patios, and utility rooms.
Is quarry tile waterproof?
Quarry tile is moisture-resistant but not fully waterproof. Proper installation and drainage are essential.
Why does quarry tile look more rustic?
Its natural clay composition and unglazed surface prioritize durability over decorative finishes.
Can quarry tile be used outdoors?
Yes. Quarry tile performs well in outdoor environments when properly installed.
Why is outlet quarry tile less expensive?
Pricing reflects surplus and discontinued inventory—not reduced performance or quality.
Quarry Tile vs. Porcelain Tile
Feature | Quarry Tile | Porcelain Tile |
Slip Resistance | Excellent | Varies by finish |
Durability | Extremely High | High |
Maintenance | Very Low | Low |
Aesthetic Variety | Limited | Extensive |
Commercial Use | Ideal | Application-dependent |
Why Buy Quarry Tile from Daltile Outlet?
We focus on providing practical solutions for demanding environments. Customers choose our outlet because we offer:
- Commercial-grade quarry tile at competitive pricing
- Access to surplus and hard-to-find inventory
- Immediate availability
- Knowledgeable support for application-specific needs
If your project requires tile that prioritizes safety, durability, and long-term value, quarry tile from our outlet is a proven solution.