--- title: IMI Gains Outside Advantage for Porcelain Tile image: http://qm-host.com/imi/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/porcelain-rainscreen-300x285.jpg --- [![IMI_logo_primary_forweb_ret_400](https://info.imiweb.org/hs-fs/hubfs/IMI_logo_primary_forweb_ret_400.png?width=174&height=34&name=IMI_logo_primary_forweb_ret_400.png)](https://www.imiweb.org/) - BUILDING SOLUTIONS - SOLUTIONS - [New Construction](https://www.imiweb.org/new-construction/) - [Restoration](https://www.imiweb.org/restoration/) - NEW CONSTRUCTION ASSEMBLIES - [Brick](https://www.imiweb.org/new-brick-construction/) - [Concrete](https://www.imiweb.org/new-concrete-construction/) - [Concrete Masonry Units](https://www.imiweb.org/new-concrete-masonry-construction/) - [Plaster, Stucco, & EIFS](https://www.imiweb.org/new-plaster-stucco-eifs-construction/) - [Rainscreen](https://www.imiweb.org/new-rainscreen-construction/) - [Stone](https://www.imiweb.org/new-stone-construction/) - [Terrazzo](https://www.imiweb.org/new-terrazzo-construction/) - [Tile](https://www.imiweb.org/new-tile-construction/) - RESTORATION ASSEMBLIES - [Brick](https://www.imiweb.org/brick-restoration/) - [Concrete](https://www.imiweb.org/concrete-restoration/) - [Plaster](https://www.imiweb.org/plaster-restoration/) - [Stucco](https://www.imiweb.org/stucco-restoration/) - [Stone](https://www.imiweb.org/stone-restoration/) - [Terra Cotta](https://www.imiweb.org/terra-cotta-restoration/) - [Terrazzo](https://www.imiweb.org/terrazzo-restoration/) - [Tile](https://www.imiweb.org/tile-restoration/) - SEGMENTS - [Cultural and Civic](https://www.imiweb.org/cultural-civic/) - [Higher Education](https://www.imiweb.org/higher-education/) - [Multifamily Residential](https://www.imiweb.org/multifamily-residential/) - [Healthcare](https://www.imiweb.org/healthcare/) - [K-12 Education](https://www.imiweb.org/k-12-education/) - [Retail and Hospitality](https://www.imiweb.org/retail-and-hospitality/) - SERVICES & TECHNICAL RESOURCES - SERVICES - [Architect, Engineer, & Designer Services](https://www.imiweb.org/designer-services/) - [Contractor Services](https://www.imiweb.org/contractor-services/) - [Specification Services](https://www.imiweb.org/specification-language/) - RESOURCES & TOOLS - [Detailing Series](https://www.imiweb.org/detailing-series/) - [Software & Design Aids](https://www.imiweb.org/software-and-design-aids/) - EDUCATION & TRAINING - EDUCATION FOR AEC PROFESSIONALS - [A/E Webinars & Education](https://www.imiweb.org/ae-education/) - [Contractor Webinars & Education](https://www.imiweb.org/contractor-education/) - TRAINING FOR CRAFTWORKERS - [About IMTEF](https://imtef.org/) - [Become an Apprentice](https://imtef.org/careers/) - [Find a Local Training Center](https://imtef.org/imtef-training-directory/) - [Health & Safety Training](https://imtef.org/safety-health/) - [International Training Center](https://imtef.org/national-training-center/) - INSTALLER CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS - [Adhered Masonry Veneer Program](https://www.imiweb.org/adhered-masonry-veneer-program/) - [Advanced Certifications in Tile](https://www.imiweb.org/advanced-certifications-in-tile/) - [Flashing Upgrade Training Program](https://www.imiweb.org/flashing-upgrade/) - [Grouting and Reinforcing Training](https://www.imiweb.org/grouting-reinforcing-training/) - [Historic Masonry Preservation Certificate Program](https://www.imiweb.org/historic-masonry-preservation-certificate/) - [Rainscreen Certificate Program](https://www.imiweb.org/rainscreen-certificate-program/) - [Supervisor Certification Program](https://www.imiweb.org/supervisor-certification-program/) - [Terra Cotta Installation and Repair Program](https://www.imiweb.org/terra_cotta_installation_and_repair_program/) - ABOUT IMI - ABOUT IMI - [About IMI](https://www.imiweb.org/about/) - [Team IMI](https://www.imiweb.org/team-imi/) - [News](https://info.imiweb.org/blog) - [Contact IMI](https://www.imiweb.org/contact/) - PROGRAMS & AWARDS - [BAC/IMI International Apprentice Contest](https://imtef.org/iac/) - [JBC Masonry Innovation Competition](https://www.imiweb.org/jbcaward/) - [Masonry Camp](https://www.imiweb.org/imi-masonry-camp/) - [CONTACT](https://www.imiweb.org/imicontact/) - ![](https://imiweb.org/wp-content/uploads/icn-search-nav.png) ![HEADER_Contact1.jpg](https://info.imiweb.org/hs-fs/hubfs/mosaicprint_img/HEADER_Contact1.jpg?width=2000&name=HEADER_Contact1.jpg "HEADER_Contact1.jpg") # International Masonry Institute News ![HEADER_Contact1.jpg](https://info.imiweb.org/hs-fs/hubfs/mosaicprint_img/HEADER_Contact1.jpg?width=2000&name=HEADER_Contact1.jpg "HEADER_Contact1.jpg") # International Masonry Institute News [June 16, 2010](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/imi-gains-outside-advantage-for-porcelain-tile) [Leave a comment](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/imi-gains-outside-advantage-for-porcelain-tile#comments-listing) [Tile](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/tile) ["I like to learn from IMI." Chicago designers and builders learn plenty at Masonry Expo](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/i-like-to-learn-from-imi-chicago-designers-and-builders-learn-plenty-at-masonry-expo) [Taking Control](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/taking-control) # IMI Gains Outside Advantage for Porcelain Tile ![](http://qm-host.com/imi/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/porcelain-rainscreen-300x285.jpg "porcelain-rainscreen") Most of us wouldn’t mind having an “inside advantage,” but when it comes to porcelain tile, it’s the outside that can make a big difference. That’s why IMI fought so hard to get it included in the International Building Code as an acceptable weather covering for building exteriors. After quite a few rounds through the code gauntlet, final success came at the [International Code Council’s](http://www.iccsafe.org/AboutICC/Pages/default.aspx)May hearings in Dallas. Until then, porcelain tile was not specifically included in the building code as an acceptable exterior finish, which made designers hesitant to use it. Now with this major victory for tile contractors and craftworkers, they can fairly compete with glass and other exterior finishes. The fine print On May 19, the IMI Code Committee succeeded in getting Porcelain Tile added in three places of the IBC: Section 1402 – Definitions; Section 1405.10.2 - Installation of Wall Coverings; and Table 1405.2, where it was added as an acceptable Exterior Weather Covering. New language for Table 1405.2 - “Exterior adhered masonry veneers-porcelain tile” - limits the size and weight of porcelain tile units. Those stipulations are critical, because anything larger has to be mechanically anchored. The section also specifies that the tile “shall be adhered to an approved backing system.” The groundwork ![](http://qm-host.com/imi/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/run-the-gauntlet-150x150.jpg "run-the-gauntlet") As anyone who deals with codes knows, changes like these don’t come overnight. IMI first had to convince the [Tile Council of North America](http://www.tileusa.com/), which serves as Secretariat for [ANSI](http://www.ansi.org/) 137.1, to submit the 2005 revised ANSI 137.1 standard, with the new reference for Porcelain Tile in Table 10. The updated 137.1 standard was then referenced in the new definition submitted by IMI to the ICC, which helped define Porcelain Tile for the IBC 1402 definitions section. The changes will take effect as areas adopt the 2012 I-Code, which will be available April 2011. The bottom line The practical effect of these victories will be more BAC man hours and more reliable exterior tile installations. “It is certainly important for architects and owners to understand the materials they have chosen for an exterior installation,” said John Trendell, President of [Tile Contractors' Association of America.](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/www.tcaainc.org)"With the right materials and the high quality installation practices offered by our companies, architects and owners can be assured of the best possible installation.” “We applaud IMI's work on this issue.” [Read the press release](http://imiweb.org/multimedia_gallery/press_room/index.php) Download the latest [IMI Update](http://imiweb.org/multimedia_gallery/press_room/Tile%20Codes%20and%20Standards%20Update%20-%20Single%20Column%20-%20072910.pdf)on Tile Codes and Standards [Tile](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/tile) [![Share on Facebook](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/facebook-24x24.png)](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfo.imiweb.org%2Fblog%2Fimi-gains-outside-advantage-for-porcelain-tile%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dfacebook) [![Share on LinkedIn](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/linkedin-24x24.png)](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfo.imiweb.org%2Fblog%2Fimi-gains-outside-advantage-for-porcelain-tile%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dlinkedin) [![Share on Twitter](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/twitter-24x24.png)](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Finfo.imiweb.org%2Fblog%2Fimi-gains-outside-advantage-for-porcelain-tile%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dtwitter&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfo.imiweb.org%2Fblog%2Fimi-gains-outside-advantage-for-porcelain-tile%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dtwitter&source=tweetbutton&text=IMI%20Gains%20Outside%20Advantage%20for%20Porcelain%20Tile) [![Share on Email](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/email-24x24.png)](mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20https%3A%2F%2Finfo.imiweb.org%2Fblog%2Fimi-gains-outside-advantage-for-porcelain-tile%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Demail%20&body=Check%20out%20https%3A%2F%2Finfo.imiweb.org%2Fblog%2Fimi-gains-outside-advantage-for-porcelain-tile%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Demail) ### Related posts [![Mortar or Grout? It Depends on the Trade](https://info.imiweb.org/hubfs/01%20Masonry%20Mortar.jpg)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/mortar-or-grout-it-depends-on-the-trade) ##### [Mortar or Grout? It Depends on the Trade](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/mortar-or-grout-it-depends-on-the-trade) Within the masonry and tile trades, there can be confusion surrounding the terms “mortar” and “grout.” This confusion is not... By [Scott Conwell](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/mortar-or-grout-it-depends-on-the-trade/author/scott-conwell) - September 11, 2026 [Read More](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/mortar-or-grout-it-depends-on-the-trade) [![BAC Tile Installers Complete Custom Myrtha Pools at Life Time Fitness](https://info.imiweb.org/hubfs/IMG_7691.jpg)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/bac-tile-installers-complete-custom-myrtha-pools-at-life-time-fitness) ##### [BAC Tile Installers Complete Custom Myrtha Pools at Life Time Fitness](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/bac-tile-installers-complete-custom-myrtha-pools-at-life-time-fitness) This project was the first fully tiled Myrtha pool in the United States with  a modular stainless steel tank with mechanisms to ... By [Henrieta Muradzikwa](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/bac-tile-installers-complete-custom-myrtha-pools-at-life-time-fitness/author/henrieta-muradzikwa) - May 23, 2022 [Read More](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/bac-tile-installers-complete-custom-myrtha-pools-at-life-time-fitness) [![Durability of Tile Assemblies](https://info.imiweb.org/hubfs/Image%201.jfif)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/durability-of-tile-assemblies) ##### [Durability of Tile Assemblies](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/durability-of-tile-assemblies) Ceramic tile is a durable material able to withstand heavy loads, high impact, and the wear that comes with decades of... By [Scott Conwell](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/durability-of-tile-assemblies/author/scott-conwell) - November 3, 2021 [Read More](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/durability-of-tile-assemblies) Search ### Categories - [Training (27)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/training) - [Sustainable Design (23)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/sustainable-design) - [Energy Efficiency (21)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/energy-efficiency) - [Conferences and Events (16)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/conferences-and-events) - [Tile (15)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/tile) - [Apprenticeship (10)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/apprenticeship) - [Structural Masonry (10)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/structural-masonry) - [Historic Masonry Restoration (8)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/historic-masonry-restoration) - [Instructor Certification Program (ICP) (8)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/instructor-certification-program-icp) - [Masonry Camp (7)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/masonry-camp) - [masonry (7)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/masonry) - [Member Spotlight (6)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/member-spotlight) - [JBC Masonry Innovation Competition (5)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/jbc-masonry-innovation-competition) - [Stone (5)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/stone) - [Apprentice Contest (4)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/apprentice-contest) - [Building Code (4)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/building-code) - [Project Feature (4)](https://info.imiweb.org/blog/topic/project-feature) #### ![logo-ftr-1](https://info.imiweb.org/hs-fs/hubfs/logo-ftr-1.png?width=200&height=41&name=logo-ftr-1.png) BAC/IMI International Training Center 17101 Science Drive Bowie, MD 20715 [Privacy Policy​](https://imiweb.org/imi-privacy-policy/) | [Contact Us​](https://imiweb.org/contact-imi/) **Related Organizations** [International Masonry Training and Education Foundation](https://imtef.org/) [International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers](https://bacweb.org/) [International Council of Employers of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers](https://www.icebac.org/) [Tile Contractors’ Association of America](https://www.tcaainc.org/) ### Sign up for updates from IMI © International Masonry Institute. All Rights Reserved.