What Is Vitrified Tiles?
Vitrified tiles are very similar to ceramic tiles, but they are made with slightly different elements. The clay is mixed with quartz and feldspar before being heated in the oven. These extra ingredients melt, creating a glass element within the tile. This glass component makes the vitrified files very hard and resistant to any type of absorption.
What Is Ceramic Tiles?
Ceramic tiles are made of natural clay that is mixed with water and molded. The creators apply an enamel on the tile to help protect it from water and scratches, then throw the clay in an oven to harden it. Ceramic tiles can be supplied in a wide variety of colors and sizes, but they must always be vitrified for protection.
How to Identify Ceramic and Vitrified Tiles?
When setting up the home or office of your dreams, you will naturally leave the responsibility to design in the hands of professionals. But it is always an advantage if you know a little about the trade. Not only can you get involved in the work in progress, but you can also make informed choices.
Most of the appearance is shared by the type of mosaic used. They accentuate the environment and reflect the natural brightness of the space. It is important to make the right decision regarding blocks, based on the requirement and the purpose. Knowing your tiles and being able to differentiate between different varieties can make the job easier for you.
Difference Between Ceramic and Vitrified Tiles
| Sr.No. | Vitrified Tiles | Ceramic Tiles | |
| 1 | Definition | vitrified tiles are made of clay and a mixture of other minerals and solvents. | Ceramic tiles are made of clay and water baked at high temperatures in a kiln. |
| 2 | Forms | The vitrified tile has an absorption rate of 0.50%, almost frost-proof, while the ceramic tile varies from 7 to 3%, making it unsuitable for outdoor applications. | Inside, homeowners can use ceramics tiles and vitrified for the same applications, such as floors and countertops.
Outside, however, water becomes a very important factor in cold climates, since only a small amount of moisture can freeze in the winter months and break the tile. |
| 3 | Prices | Vitrified tiles cost a couple of dollars more per square meter because of their extra qualities. Vitrified tiles also need a stronger adhesive than ceramic tiles, which can cost more to install | The prices of ceramic tiles vary considerably, depending on the size and personalized work. They tend to cost between $ 8 and $ 20 dollars per square foot. |
| 4 | Glazing | Vitrified tiles need not be glazed. Shine can be given with mansion polish. | Ceramic tiles always glazed to be protection. |
| 5 | Installation | The installation of a vitrified tile is easy as compared to ceramic tiles. They do not require skilled labor. | The installation of ceramic tile is difficult as compared to vitrified tiles. Skilled labor is required. |
| 6 | Maintenance | The maintenance of vitrified tile is easy because of its shining surface it is easy to clean. | The maintenance of ceramic tile is not as easy as compared to vitrified tiles. |
| 7 | Look | Vitrified tiles have an artificial look as compare to the natural look of ceramic tiles. | Ceramic tiles have a natural and earthen look in comparison to the artificial look of vitrified tiles. |
| 8 | Colour Resistance to UV light | Vitrified tiles are very slippery as compared to ceramic tiles. Vitrified tiles are very slippery when wet. | Ceramic tiles – Direct exposure to sunlight will cause the colour of the tiles to be removed frequently and the tiles may fade for a period of time. |
| 9 | Resistance to Scratches | Vitrified tiles have more resistance to scratches so even when tiles have scratched the colour of the tiles will remain the same. | Ceramic tiles have a low resistance to scratches, so the colour of ceramic tiles do not remain the same throughout its surface over in period-of-time. |
| 10 | Nail Polishes | Instead of being vitrified, vitrified tiles are either polished or unpolished. Polished tiles have a shiny sheen, while unpolished versions are rougher and more natural-looking. | Unlike ceramic tiles, vitrified tiles are rarely vitrified. Instead, a dye is mixed with the clay before being burned. This dye makes the clay a uniform color; therefore, even if the vitrified tile is scratched, the color will remain the same. |
| 11 | Composition | The term vitrified means to convert into a glass-like substance, in this process of vitrification 40% clay and 60% silica is added. Vitrified tiles are made by a mixture of clay, silica, quartz, and feldspar which is a constituent-minerals in the granite rock. | Ceramic tile is made up of earthen clay and water. |
| 12 | Texture | Vitrified tiles are smooth and glossy. It will give you an aesthetic look and it is easy to clean. | The ceramic tiles are comparatively rough and the outer enamel is applied for the shiny appearance. |
| 13 | Durability | Vitrified tiles are more durable as compare to ceramic tiles due to their glass-like surface. | Ceramic tiles are less durable as compare to vitrified tiles. |
| 14 | Strength | Ceramic tiles are less strong than the vitrified tiles. Ceramic tiles have low flexural strength which is 20 N/mm2 and low breaking strength which is 200 N. | Vitrified tiles are stronger as compare to ceramic tiles. Vitrified tiles have high flexural strength of 35 N/mm2 and high breaking strength that is 700 N. |
| 15 | Size | Vitrified tiles
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Ceramic tiles
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| 16 | Water Absorption | Meanwhile, the vitrified tiles are not porous and therefore the water absorption is negligible. Therefore, it is more suitable for wet areas. | The tiles are very porous and therefore absorb water quickly. Therefore, the use of ceramic tiles in the external area will cause the tiles to develop cracks quickly. |
| 17 | Frost Resistance | Vitrified tiles have high frost resistance because of its water absorption is low as compared to ceramic tiles. | Ceramic tiles have low frost resistance hence these types of tiles absorb water quickly. |
| 18 | Staining Resistance | Vitrified tiles have high resistance to stain due to non-porosity, glossy finish, and also easy to clean. | Ceramic tiles have a low resistance to stains for example when oil falls on the surface of the ceramic tiles, it is difficult t remove to stain of the tile as compared to ceramic tiles due to the texture on top. |
| 19 | Slip Resistance | Vitrified tiles are very slippery as compared to ceramic tiles. Vitrified tiles are very slippery when wet.
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Ceramic tiles are not as slippery as compared to vitrified tiles. Ceramic tiles can be treated to prevent slipping either by adding an adhesive |
Main Differences Between Vitrified Tiles vs Ceramic Tiles:
Ceramic and vitrified tiles, both can be used on walls and floors. Both types of tiles are available in different varieties of colours, design patterns, and sizes. Although they are used for the same purpose, there is a big difference between ceramic and vitrified tiles, that is, their properties, availability, cost, etc.
So here we try to provide a brief comparison between ceramic tiles and vitrified tiles, which will help you to make the right choice. As mentioned earlier, the composition varies. The ceramics are made with clay, while the vitrified tiles contain a mixture of silica and clay.
Ceramic tiles have a thicker texture than vitrified tiles, known for their shiny appearance. However, ceramic tiles have a more natural and earthy appearance than vitrified tiles, whose glassy appearance gives an artificial touch.
The glazing process makes the vitrified tiles stronger than the tiles. As they are composed of a mixture of various materials, such as silica, quartz, and feldspar, together with clay, cooking at high temperatures melts them to make them more durable and resistant.
Due to their low porosity, vitrified tiles absorb very little water when compared to tiles. This makes vitrified tiles a good option for floors. Vitrified tiles are more resistant to scratches and stains than ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are easier to install. Finally, due to the obvious advantages of vitrified tiles, they cost more than ceramic tiles
Armed with these basic facts, you can easily distinguish the two types of pieces with just one look. You can also analyze which type of tile matches which purpose and install each according to its qualities.
Technical Specification of Tiles As Per IS Code: 13753 And Euro En-159
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Are Vitrified Tiles?
Vitrified tiles are tiles made from a mixture of clay, quartz, and feldspar, which are heated to a high temperature to create a glass-like surface. This composition makes them highly durable, resistant to absorption, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
How Do Ceramic Tiles Differ from Vitrified Tiles?
Ceramic tiles are made from natural clay mixed with water and then fired at high temperatures. Unlike vitrified tiles, they require glazing for protection against water and scratches. Vitrified tiles have a glassy surface due to their composition and are generally more durable and less porous than ceramic tiles.
Are Vitrified Tiles Suitable for Outdoor Use?
Yes, vitrified tiles are suitable for outdoor use due to their low water absorption rate and high frost resistance. They are less likely to crack or become damaged in cold climates compared to ceramic tiles.
Can Ceramic Tiles Be Used in Wet Areas?
Ceramic tiles are more porous and absorb water more quickly than vitrified tiles. This makes them less suitable for wet areas and outdoor applications where moisture could lead to damage or cracking.
How Do the Costs of Vitrified and Ceramic Tiles Compare?
Vitrified tiles generally cost more per square meter than ceramic tiles due to their enhanced properties and the need for a stronger adhesive during installation. Ceramic tiles can vary widely in price based on size and design, but they are typically less expensive than vitrified tiles.
What Are the Maintenance Requirements for Vitrified Tiles?
Vitrified tiles are relatively easy to maintain due to their smooth, glossy surface, which resists stains and is easy to clean. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping are usually sufficient to keep them looking their best.
Are Ceramic Tiles More Difficult to Install Than Vitrified Tiles?
Yes, ceramic tiles can be more challenging to install compared to vitrified tiles. They often require skilled labor for proper installation due to their need for precise alignment and the application of glaze.
Do vitrified tiles have a natural look?
Vitrified tiles tend to have a more artificial, glassy appearance compared to ceramic tiles, which are known for their natural, earthy look. However, vitrified tiles are available in various designs that can mimic natural materials.
Can Vitrified Tiles Be Polished?
Yes, vitrified tiles can be polished to enhance their shine. There are both polished and unpolished variants, depending on the desired finish.
How Can I Identify the Difference Between Ceramic and Vitrified Tiles?
The main differences include their appearance, water absorption rate, and durability. Vitrified tiles have a glass-like surface and low water absorption, while ceramic tiles have a more natural look and higher water absorption. A simple test for water absorption can also help differentiate between the two.
