The foundation of living spaces, quite literally, lies beneath our feet. Regarding home decor and interior design, the flooring selection is crucial in defining a space’s overall aesthetics and functionality.
Tiles are among the most common flooring options as they give you many choices. Ceramic tiles and vitrified tiles are two of the industry’s top competitors. Even if they might look similar to you initially, a closer look reveals unique qualities that set them apart.
Stay put because this thorough article will help you examine the differences between vitrified and ceramic tiles. So, the next time you think of redoing any space, you know the difference!
What are Ceramic and Vitrified Tiles?
Let’s first understand what these tiles are in the construction field, and then we’ll discuss their differences.
Ceramic Tiles
In essence, the term “ceramic” refers to any combination of sand, red or white clay, minerals, and solvents. This is later utilized to make various items, including fine art, silverware, and tiles.
You must have seen ceramic tiles as a common material for walls and floors. They are heated to high temperatures in a kiln to provide a tough, long-lasting surface.
Ceramic tiles are a flexible option for residential and commercial applications since they are available in many colors, patterns, shapes, and sizes.
Ceramic floor tiles are easy to install and replace and available in various colors. Ceramic tiles are not advised for use in areas with high water tables due to their porous nature, which causes them to retain more water.
Glazing is the most common coating for ceramic tiles, which guards against moisture, stains, and scratches.
It’s very rare that they are utilized in their unglazed state. Because of the glaze’s durable protective coating, these tiles are an excellent choice for counters, walls, backsplashes, and flooring.
Vitrified Tiles
Recently, vitrified tiles have become incredibly popular as a chic and contemporary flooring alternative. Vitrification is the procedure that creates vitrified tiles, with the intention of strengthening and toughening the tiles.
Vitrified tiles are tougher, less absorbent, less porous, and glossy. These characteristics, which give the appearance of glass due to the composition of silica, quartz, and feldspar, are what give these tiles a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. They reach this composition prior to being heated in the kiln.
Vitrified tiles are ideal for high-traffic areas since they require little upkeep and are extremely durable. You’ll see that their widespread usage in commercial settings stems from this reason.
Now that you know the basic difference, if you need help with getting your floors or walls done, Boh Bros. Construction is a viable option to consider with its vast experience in the field. We’re sure you can get the necessary consultation to re-do any space you want to renovate.
Differences Between Vitrified and Ceramic Tiles
To many people, ceramic and vitrified tiles are the same as they can’t tell the difference. But you can. With the parameters of differences discussed below, you’ll have ample knowledge to tell the difference. So here we go!
Composition
The ingredients for ceramic tiles include clay and water, which are heated in a kiln to create the tile. Although there are unglazed choices on the market, they appear glazed due to the additional layer of glassy liquid. These tiles give an earthy aspect to most of their colors and designs.
Conversely, vitrified floor tiles comprise 60 % silica and 40% clay with other solvents. When a mixture of all these components is heated to a high temperature, they form a glossy substrate over the surface. They come in solid, textured, and wooden color options as well.
Porosity
Ceramic tiles are very porous and can absorb water quickly. If you install these tiles in a setting with more water, they’re more likely to develop cracks due to the high absorption.
Vitrified tiles, on the other hand, are less porous and do not allow water to seep through. For this reason, vitrified tiles are more suitable for areas with more use or the presence of water, e.g., a poolside area or maybe a spa.
Durability
Ceramic tiles are not as tough as vitrified tiles. Vitrified tiles, with a glass-like surface, have the ability to sustain scratches and be in their original form. They are tougher and more durable, whereas ceramic tiles’ durability can be affected by many factors like tile quality, installation issues, susceptibility to chipping or cracking, etc.
Appearance
Ceramic tiles generally have a rough appearance, but they can have a shiny surface with an additional layer of glaze.
Vitrified tiles are glossy and smoother in appearance because of the contents of glass present in its composition.
Affordability
Generally speaking, ceramic tiles are less expensive than vitrified tiles. Because of their affordability, they are a well-liked option for anyone looking for fashionable but affordable flooring.
Vitrified tiles cost you more of course. Their consistent shape, size, and design are important factors that maintain their price higher.
Maintenance
Vitrified tiles are low maintenance since they are sealed during the production process, whereas ceramic tiles need to be sealed on a regular basis to avoid stains and water absorption.
While vitrified tiles offer better durability and resilience to wear and tear, ceramic tiles are more prone to chipping and cracking, necessitating periodic replacements.
Ceramic or Vitrified? Which is the Best for You?
Well, it all depends on your particular requirements. Vitrified or ceramic tiles have advantages and disadvantages, as discussed in the parameters above.
We recommend you opt for ceramic tiles if you’re looking for an affordable choice with various styles and don’t mind a little additional upkeep.
However, vitrified tiles are a superior option—though they are frequently more expensive initially—if toughness, low maintenance, and resistance to wear are important considerations for you.
Final Thoughts
When faced with a tile dilemma, selecting the best floor for your home between vitrified and ceramic tiles will depend on your personal taste, your financial situation, and the practical requirements of your area.
While ceramic tiles offer a more affordable option and a larger canvas for artistic expression, vitrified tiles radiate sophisticated refinement and unshakeable endurance. Hope you now know what you need to make a well-informed decision for your space!
