Vitrified vs. Ceramic Tiles: Which Is Right for Your Home? - Blog

The right tiles have the power to make a space feel polished, stylish, and well put together. But, tiles are not just for aesthetics. They also need to hold up against the everyday hustle and demands of your home.

Vitrified tiles are highly durable and stain-resistant, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Ceramic tiles, on the other hand, are more affordable and easier to install.

Now, let’s discuss their pros and cons in detail to give you a clearer picture and help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Vitrified & Ceramic Tiles

Vitrified tiles are a popular choice for modern homes. Silica, clay and several minerals are combined and heated under high temperatures to create them. And, they become tough, dense tiles that do not let liquids seep through.

These tiles get their polished, glass-like appearance from the extreme heat they are subjected to. Vitrified tiles are a great pick for anyone seeking an alternative to marble or granite floors.

There are several types of vitrified tiles, such as Double Charged, Full Body, Glazed Vitrified Tiles and Soluble Salt Vitrified Tiles, each catering to unique needs.

In contrast to vitrified tiles, the production of ceramic tiles involves heating clay at a lower temperature. These tiles are highly versatile and can be crafted into a variety of shapes. They are often used in both residential and commercial settings.

The shiny surface of Glazed Ceramic Tiles enhances their appearance, while Unglazed Ceramic Tiles feature a raw, earthy finish with no glaze.

Key Differences Between Vitrified & Ceramic Tiles

Strength & Durability

Vitrified tiles stand out for their impressive durability and strength. Thanks to their dense composition, vitrified tiles can withstand heavy use without showing signs of wear and tear.

The hard tiles are resistant to breaking and cracking, so they make a solid choice. These tiles are generally viewed as a sturdier option than ceramic tiles.

Ceramic tiles also do a good job in terms of strength but they fall a little short compared to the vitrified tiles. A forceful impact increases the chances of them chipping or cracking.

So, if you expect constant foot traffic, vitrified tiles can ensure your floors stay resilient and look good for years.

Resistance To Stain And Scratches

One major perk of vitrified tiles is that they do not scratch or stain easily. Their firm surface makes it difficult for dirt or liquid to penetrate, meaning they are more likely to maintain their pristine appearance over time.

But, the same glossy finish that renders these tiles elegant can also turn into a slip risk in moist conditions. However, there are many vitrified tiles designed with anti-skid features to provide excellent grip.

Ceramic tiles may manage stains and scratches well, but they do not offer the same level of protection as vitrified tiles do. As these tiles experience more use, especially in busy areas, their glaze can start to fade, increasing their probability of staining.

Not wiping up stained material quickly might lead to permanent discolouration on your tiles. The slipperiness of these tiles when wet can also be a concern, but a non-slip coating is an effective way to improve their safety.

Additionally, ceramic materials are fire-resistant in everyday scenarios. They do not burn, nor do they release any toxic fumes or smoke.

Water Absorption

Vitrified tiles boast an exceptionally low water absorption rate, usually below 0.5%. Places with high humidity, like bathrooms, kitchens or outdoor areas, benefit from these.

Because they repel water, they help prevent the growth of mould and mildew. And, they contribute to a cleaner and more hygienic space.

Compared to vitrified tiles, ceramic tiles can have a higher water absorption rate. Though these tiles are suited for places like kitchens and bathrooms, they might not be the best choice for areas that are frequently exposed to water, such as showers or pools.

UV Resistance

With vitrified tiles, you can rest easy knowing they will not discolour or fade under the sun’s powerful UV rays. Outdoor spots like balconies, patios and garden paths, where weather exposure is always present, are an ideal place for installing these tiles.

Even though ceramic tiles offer some resistance to UV rays, they fade more easily over time than vitrified tiles.

If you plan on using ceramic tiles in an area that receives a lot of direct sunlight, it is important to select high-quality tiles that are specifically crafted for outdoor use.

Areas Suitable

You can use vitrified tiles just about anywhere in your home because of their adaptability. As these surfaces stand up well to moisture, stains and fading, they work great for bathrooms, kitchens and outdoor spaces.

When foot traffic is a concern, vitrified tiles bring the strength and longevity needed. On the flip side, areas with minimal foot traffic, such as living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms, are a good match for ceramic tiles.

Aesthetics

If aesthetics are key for you, you will be pleased to know that both vitrified and ceramic tiles have many design options and finishes.

The glossy finish of vitrified tiles adds a sleek, modern touch to any room. Available in a broad spectrum of colours and patterns, some designs even replicate marble, stone or wood, giving your space a luxurious look.

The glazing technique gives ceramic tiles the flexibility to come in a vast range of shades and styles. With their eye-catching patterns and bold hues, these tiles are selected to serve as the focal point of a feature wall or decorative corners.

So, these tiles are an awesome way to introduce a bit of charm and individuality to your space.

Installation

The time spent installing vitrified tile floors is relatively short, but it does require a bit of effort and attention to detail.

For a flawless finish and consistent grout lines, it is recommended to have a professional handle the installation of vitrified tiles.

Moreover, since repairing them is definitely not simple, it is a good idea to keep a few extra tiles on hand for any potential breakages.

Ceramic tiles are less cumbersome, which makes the whole process of handling, installing and repairing them much smoother. You will find these tiles easier to cut and the installation process is generally faster than with vitrified tiles.

Care and Maintenance

The best part about vitrified tiles? They are low-maintenance! They are non-porous and resist stains, so a quick clean with a damp cloth or mop is all it takes for them to look spotless.

You can enjoy a hassle-free experience without worrying about reglazing or sealing as well. But, regular care is essential to preserve the beauty of ceramic tiles.

Eventually, the glaze may start to wear down, which indicates that you will have to clean and reseal more often. The tile grout can also get grimy and a little scrub every now and then will help remove the buildup.

Cost

Vitrified tiles tend to cost more than ceramic tiles because of their intensive manufacturing processes. However, when you factor in their longevity and minimal upkeep, vitrified tiles might actually prove to be a better cost-effective option in the end.

Ceramic tiles are more affordable than vitrified tiles, which is why many homeowners choose them as a budget-friendly option.

Despite the likelihood of needing a little more attention down the road, their lower upfront cost makes them a favourable choice for anyone looking to cut back on expenses during a tiling project.

Which Tile Is ‘The One’ For You?

Before settling on vitrified or ceramic tiles, take into account the location and specific demands of the spaces you are working on.

At the end of the day, the final choice boils down to what you prioritise, whether that is how long it lasts, how much it costs or how it looks. Weighing these elements will guide you in picking the right tiles for your home.

And, don’t hesitate to reach out to us, if you require any help or have questions. Our expert team at Lakshmi Ceraamics is ready to give you personalised guidance. We will assist you in picking tiles that not only complement your room but also align with your design aspirations.

We have also joined forces with many trusted brands to present you with a collection of vitrified and ceramic tiles that promise to make your space even more beautiful and functional.

So, stop by today and explore everything our showroom has to offer!