What is the Difference between Ceramic Tiles and Vitrified tiles?

Difference between Ceramic Tiles vs Vitrified tiles.

Most customers are confused over the difference between Ceramic Tiles vs Vitrified tiles. They do not know which one to select. We present to you a small representation of Ceramic Tiles vs Vitrified tiles.

Ceramic tiles are manufactured from Clay and water only. Vitrified tiles have other additives as well. These include silica, Quartz and Feldspar. While Ceramic tiles and vitrified tiles go through a kiln for baking, vitrified tiles attain vitrification (glass like property) which does not happen in ceramic tiles. This means vitrified tiles have characteristics similar to glass due to the glass substrate formed, reducing its porosity.

Porosity: Ceramic tiles are porous by nature and absorb more water or liquid. They also get stained easily. Vitrified tiles have minimal porosity and hence have better stain as well as water resistance.

Glazing: In ceramic tiles the surface is glazed to give it a smooth effect and protect that particular surface from water absorption. Vitrified tiles have natural marble like characteristics which do not require glazing. However, glazing is done to improve its look only. These are called Glazed Vitrified tiles(GVT).

Costing: Vitrified tiles have more costly inputs and have to be fired at higher temperatures; hence their costing is higher compared to ceramic tiles.

Strength: Vitrified tiles, needless to say are stronger than ceramic tiles due to material and process properties. With lower porosity vitrified tiles absorb less water and liquids, keeping its strength better. It also lasts longer.

Installation: Ceramic tiles are easy to lay compared to Vitrified tiles.

Look: Vitrified tiles (without glazing) have a natural stone like texture and resemble marble and granite but have a more artificial look. They are good substitute for marble flooring and granite installation. Further, their depth is also textured like marble. Ceramic tiles attain the look of glaze and printing on surface. Beneath the surface, they have a natural look due to clay and water as the only additives.