TCNA Offers Update on Handbook Developments

Clemson, SC, September 18, 2025-The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) has announced the successful conclusion of its recent TCNA Handbook Committee meeting, held earlier this month. Nearly 90 participants joined the meeting, reflecting strong industry engagement and support for the Handbook.

The TCNA Handbook for Ceramic, Glass, and Stone Tile Installation, now in its 63rd year of continuous publication, features guidelines widely used in specifying, selling, and installing tiles and related installation materials. The Handbook Committee Meeting is an important gathering of industry leaders to collaborate on potential updates to this essential resource, which is considered a must-have guide for tile installation in the U.S.

During the meeting, the committee approved several significant submissions that will impact more than 20 Handbook details and three guides in the upcoming 2026 edition of the TCNA Handbook. Notable updates include:

• Nine new gauged porcelain tile and gauged porcelain tile panels/slabs Handbook details
• Revisions to the Ceramic Tile Selection Guide, addressing specialty tile and product specifications
• Revisions to the Wet Area Guidelines, introducing a new definition for capillary breaks
• Revisions to exterior wall details (W201, W202E, and W244E), adding an option for continuous insulation

The committee also discussed new submissions related to elevator cabs and “step down” or “below slab” showers. These proposals are undergoing additional refinement and may be balloted electronically in the coming weeks.

Looking ahead, the committee is exploring convening next year’s meeting in person, recognizing the added value of face-to-face collaboration.