Ceramic Tiles Vs Vitrified Tiles

We all know that selecting the right type of tiles is important to satisfy the aesthetic sense and ideal functionality in any area. Not only do tiles offer an aesthetic appeal to the interior of a space, but they also play a vital role in its performance and maintenance. Spenza Ceramics is a renowned tiles brand that specialises in ceramic and vitrified tiles. In this blog, you will discover the differences between ceramic tiles and vitrified tiles, which we offer to guide you in choosing the right one for your home or office. 

Understanding Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are made of natural clay fired in the kiln at a high temperature and then hardened at a normal temperature. This process provides them with their unique hardness and durability. They can either be glazed or unglazed. However, the glaze gives the tiles better protection while making them more aesthetically appealing.

Characteristics

• Durability: Ceramic tiles are highly resistant to abrasion and thus long-lasting. They are relatively cheaper and more durable than other tiling options like natural stones, making them popular among homeowners and builders.
• Aesthetics: Ceramic tiles come in a variety of forms and sizes, aesthetic features, colours, textures, and finishes. They can replicate the appearance of stones, woods, and so on. They are among the best options for designing different spaces.
• Moisture Resistance: Unglazed tiles may be affected by water absorption, although this feature of ceramic tiles is not an issue as they can be sealed to prevent moisture penetration in areas of high moisture.

Uses

Ceramic tiles can be used in residential areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, and even the living room. They are also used to add designs or focal points on walls and ceilings due to their versatility in terms of style and pattern. 

Understanding Vitrified Tiles

Vitrified tiles are those tiles made from clay, silica, quartz and feldspar, which are subjected to a special firing process known as the vitrification process. This process makes the tiles more homogeneous and less porous than ceramic tiles.

Characteristics

• Low Porosity: Tiles obtained through vitrification have extremely low porosity, which minimises their ability to absorb water. Due to this property, they are suitable for use in areas exposed to moisture.
• High Strength: Vitrified tiles are extremely hard-wearing and resistant to scratches, stains, and impact. They are intended to facilitate traffic and endure unfavourable environmental conditions.
• Varied Finishes: There are various types of vitrified tiles depending on the finish, such as polished vitrified tiles, matte Vitrified Tiles, and digitally glazed vitrified tiles. They provide more design functions with a higher aesthetic sense.

Uses

They are most appropriate for areas likely to receive huge traffic, such as shopping centres, airports, and office blocks. They are also used in most contemporary residential areas, including the kitchen, bathroom, and living area, as they are hard-wearing and easy to maintain. 

Comparison: Ceramic Tiles vs. Vitrified Tiles

• Durability

• Ceramic Tiles: Generally, they are quite resilient but susceptible to chipping and cracking at the area of the most pressure. They are ideal for medium-traffic areas.
• Vitrified Tiles: Super strong and do not come close to scratching, staining, or impact damage. It is ideal for application in commercial areas, such as offices and stores, among others.

• Maintenance:

• Ceramic Tiles: They are non-porous, which makes them easy to clean. However, they might need sealing from time to time. Glazed tiles are usually comparatively easy to maintain.
• Vitrified Tiles: They require low maintenance due to their non-porous nature. You can wash them using normal cleaners, and they do not get stained easily.

• Cost

• Ceramic Tiles: Normally cheaper than vitrified tiles. Good quality at affordable prices, especially if you are working under some budget constraints. 
• Vitrified Tiles: Prices are higher than those of ceramic tiles due to the implementation of complex manufacturing processes and extraordinary service life. Nonetheless, they serve long-term benefits because they are built to last long and require little maintenance.

• Design Options

• Ceramic Tiles: Ceramic tiles come in a wide range of styles, including colours and patterns. They are best suited to intricate design and certain distinctive looks. 
• Vitrified Tiles: Digitally glazed vitrified tiles that allow the use of different high-resolution images and polished surfaces. These tiles can imitate the appearance of natural materials while improving their resilience.

• Installation

• Ceramic Tiles: They are not very complicated to install and come with instructions, but they need a little care while handling so as not to chip. In order to achieve a long-term finish, the selection of adhesive and grouts should also be well-chosen.
• Vitrified Tiles: Installation is similar to ceramic tiles, but the tiles’ low porosity requires a well-prepared surface. The product must be installed by a professional to guarantee correct glueing and positioning.

When to Choose Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are quite useful if you are on a tight budget or prefer conventional floor designs with the possibility of putting different coatings. They are the best for facilitating average traffic and where the appearance or look of the floor is of importance. Ceramic tiles are ideal for residential areas, for example, bedroom tiles, where they do not need high functionality but focus on beauty and style as compared to commercial areas.

When to Choose Vitrified Tiles

Vitrified tiles are best suited for the areas that are frequently used and any area with frequent moisture exposure. Due to their hardness and ease of maintenance, they fit well in commercial buildings and interior home design, especially kitchens and bathrooms. They are available in various types, such as digitally glazed vitrified tiles. If you are in the market for a tile that’s both strong and fairly new to the design market, then vitrified tiles would be perfect for you.

Conclusion

Ceramic tiles offer a versatile and budget-friendly option with a wide range of styles, while vitrified tiles provide superior strength and minimal maintenance with modern design options. Spenza Ceramics, a leading tiles brand, offers a diverse range of both ceramic and vitrified tiles to meet your needs, ensuring you find the perfect tile for your home or commercial space. Consider your specific requirements and project details to make an informed choice that aligns with your aesthetic and functional goals.