Ceramic Tiles vs Vitrified Tiles

Ceramic Tiles vs Vitrified Tiles: Strength, Absorption & Cost

One of the most common debates about flooring and wall treatments is whether to use ceramic tiles or vitrified tiles. Both have been popular for a long time, but they work better in different scenarios, depending on where they are put, how long they are expected to endure, and how much money you have. This article discusses the differences in materials, durability, finishes, safety, pricing, and care, allowing you to determine which option is best for your project before making a decision.

Core material & manufacturing differences

The fundamental difference between ceramic and vitrified tiles lies in their creation process and composition.

To manufacture ceramic tiles, a kiln bakes a mix of natural clay, sand, and water. Glazing them will give them colour, texture, and protection. Due to this method, they are often slightly porous, although glazes can make them stronger.

Vitrified tiles, on the other hand, are formed by heating and pressuring silica, clay, and feldspar together at very high temperatures. This procedure makes the tile's surface look like glass, which makes it denser, stronger, and considerably less porous than ceramic tiles.

Ceramics are functional and earthy, but vitrified tiles are meant to be hard and not soak up water.

Durability & water absorption

Durability is usually the most crucial item for homeowners, builders, and designers.

Ceramic tiles are ideal for areas that receive minimal use, such as walls, bedrooms, and living rooms. They are not as dense as other materials, yet they are not brittle. This means that they might chip or break more readily if they are struck hard or subjected to a lot of weight.

People know that vitrified tiles are quite tough and last a long time. They don't scratch easily, can withstand a lot of foot traffic, and are ideal for areas with high foot traffic, such as commercial spaces, hallways, and outdoor areas.

Vitrified tiles are the finest at holding water. They don't absorb a lot of water (less than 0.5%), so you can use them in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, patios, and terraces. Ceramic tiles retain more water and are less safe in wet areas unless they are treated or glazed in a special way.

Vitrified tiles are superior to other forms of flooring in keeping balconies and bathrooms dry and free of cracks.

Finish options & safety

The finish you pick affects how safe, comfortable, and nice it appears.

Ceramic tiles come in a wide range of colours, textures, patterns, and glazes. You can create a variety of designs with ceramics, ranging from sparkling, beautiful patterns to earthy terracotta. The coating also alters the slipperiness of the tiles. For instance, high-gloss ceramic tiles can become slippery in damp areas, so a matte or textured glaze is best suited for kitchens and bathrooms.

You can choose vitrified tiles that are polished, matte, glossy, satin, or even anti-slip. They can look and feel like real stone, wood, or marble thanks to innovative technology like digital printing. They also last longer. For areas that get a lot of foot traffic and are prone to getting wet, it is highly recommended to use matte or anti-skid vitrified coatings.

Always check the slide resistance ratings (R-values) in wet areas, especially if kids or older family members will be utilising them.

Cost, installation & maintenance

Most of the time, the budget is the most crucial item. Both types of tiles are less expensive than natural stone, but the expenses over time differ.

Ceramic tiles are typically more affordable initially. They are easier to cut and lighter, which can make installation cheaper. They are a cheap but nice way to cover walls, backsplashes, and bedrooms.

Vitrified tiles cost extra due to their unique manufacturing process and extended lifespan. It's also hard to cut and install them because they are harder and denser. But their long life often makes up for the higher initial cost.

Another important thing is maintenance. You need to seal the grout lines of ceramic tiles on a regular basis to prevent stains and moisture from entering. It's easier to clean vitrified tiles because they are denser and don't have any gaps. Most of the time, all you need is a damp mop and some mild soap. This means that over time, maintenance will cost less and take less time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which performs better on balconies?

Vitrified tiles are the ideal choice for balconies. They don't absorb water, can withstand variations in temperature, and last longer in semi-outdoor conditions.

Are vitrified tiles always stronger?

Due to their manufacturing process, vitrified tiles are denser and stronger than ceramic tiles. That said, ceramics are ideal for areas where people don't walk frequently, such as bedroom floors or walls that are primarily decorative.

Do ceramic tiles need sealing?

You don't always need to seal glazed tiles, but you do need to seal the grout joints. This prevents mould, moisture, and stains from accumulating, especially in the bathroom and kitchen.

Where do ceramic tiles outperform?

Ceramics are fantastic because they are cheap, easy to install, and can be made in many different ways. They often function better than vitrified tiles for wall cladding, new designs, and projects with limited funds.

Picking the Right Thing

So, how do you pick between glass tiles and ceramic tiles?

Ceramic tiles come in so many styles that they are perfect for inexpensive repairs, wall finishes, and areas where people don't walk on them frequently.

Because they are incredibly sturdy, don't absorb water, and save money in the long term, vitrified tiles are the best choice for areas with high foot traffic, wet areas, or outdoor locations.

Use ceramics for walls and areas that receive minimal use if you need to mix materials. Vitrified tiles are great for kitchens, balconies, and floors.

In the end, the "best" choice depends on the type of room you have, how you live, and how much you want to clean. You can find flooring and wall solutions that look fantastic and last a long time if you consider these factors.

Use the room-by-room selector (free)!

There is no one right answer to the subject of ceramic vs. vitrified. You need to discover the ideal mix of pricing, performance, and design for your space. If you're still unsure, the best thing to do is to explore personalised ideas.

Use our free room-by-room comparison tool at Qutone Ceramics to discover how ceramic and vitrified tiles stack up against each other and choose the best option for your project.

You'll be able to choose with confidence because you'll know you've considered all three factors: beauty, safety, and value.