Ensuring Quality That Speaks
Through Every Tile

At AQS, Subway / Metro Tiles Tiles undergo rigorous testing — from raw materials to final finish.
Our quality control process ensures your walls reflect not just beauty, but trust

Subway / Metro Tiles

Subway tiles, also known as Metro tiles, are small-format rectangular wall tiles popular for their classic, brick-like layout and glossy finish, making them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial spaces. Due to their tight joint layout, even minor defects in size, flatness, or shade can cause noticeable alignment issues.

At AQS, we conduct meticulous inspections of subway tiles, focusing on dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and color consistency, ensuring flawless alignment and visual uniformity for seamless installations in high-visibility areas.

AQS Testing Parameters
AQS Inspection Process for
Subway Tiles

We implement specialized inspection protocols for subway tiles, focusing on dimensional precision, surface finish, and color consistency. Our detailed checks ensure each tile aligns seamlessly, maintains visual uniformity, and is ready for flawless installation in high-visibility areas.

Factory Visit & Production Quantity Check

We begin by confirming:

  • Total produced quantity vs. order
  • Design codes, shade numbers, and sizes (e.g., 75x150mm, 100x200mm)
  • Batch readiness and clear labeling for sampling

01

Warehouse Stock &
Storage Safety Check

Our inspector checks:

  • Proper segregation of lots by shade and batch
  • Safe stacking to avoid chipping or pressure damage
  • Pallet labeling and wrapping condition

02

Random Sampling
(AQL Method)

Boxes are selected randomly from different pallets and stacks, following AQL sampling standards, ensuring a fair representation of the lot.

03

Box Weight
Measurement

we weigh each selected box using a digital scale to detect:

  • Under-packed boxes
  • Potential excess moisture
  • Variations in packing quantity

04

QC Area Transfer &
Inspection Setup

Boxes are moved to a well-lit, flat surface for detailed inspection. For small-format tiles, proper tile spacing and clean layout are essential to identify joint alignment or surface variation.

05

External Box Label &
Artwork Check

We verify:

  • Design name, size, shade, and batch details
  • Factory or private label branding (if applicable)
  • Label position and legibility for export readiness

06

Internal Packing &
Tile Protection Check

Internal Packing & Tile Protection Check:

  • Use of separator sheets (paper or foam)
  • Edge contact and tile stacking quality
  • Box material strength and sealing

07

Tile Laying &
Visual Evaluation

Tiles are laid out in rows to simulate real installation (brick or herringbone pattern). We inspect:

  • Surface quality: pinholes, scratches, cracks, glaze defects
  • Shade consistency across boxes
  • Gloss uniformity (for high-gloss tiles)
  • Print precision (in textured or bevel-edged designs)
  • Joint alignment when tiles are placed with a 1-2mm grout gap
  • Edge cutting precision to ensure tight joint matching

For bevel-edged subway tiles, we check the uniformity of bevel angle and depth across the batch.

08

Reference
Tile Matching

We compare laid tiles with a client-approved master sample to verify:

  • Color tone and gloss level
  • Surface texture or design fidelity
  • Bevel edge profile match (if applicable)

09

Technical Testing &
Dimensional Checks

Using multiple-point measurements, we check:

  • Size & Thickness Measurement (ISO 10545-2)
  • Flatness & Warpage (ISO 10545-2)
  • Water Absorption (ISO 10545-3)
  • Breaking Strength (ISO 10545-4)
  • Gloss Value (if applicable)
  • Marker/Stain Resistance (ISO 10545-14)

10

Final Reporting &
Inspection Result

The inspection report includes:

  • Detailed observations with photos
  • Size and flatness test results
  • Defect documentation (if any)
  • Recommendations or remarks
  • Approval status and inspector notes

Delivered to the client within 24 hours.

11

Why AQS Inspection for Subway Tiles Matters

Subway tiles’ small format and tight layout make even minor defects highly visible, leading to joint misalignment, staggered patterns, and uneven gloss in installations. AQS ensures consistent sizing, precise bevel profiles, and flawless edges, maintaining visual harmony across large surfaces.

Our inspections verify batch consistency, gloss uniformity, and edge precision, providing detailed reports that support client confidence and shipment approval. With AQS, you deliver subway tiles that are installation-ready and visually perfect, meeting global standards.

en