Porcelain Tiles Vs Vitrified Tiles

Tiles are an integral part of any architectural design be it indoors or exterior. Tiles bring uniqueness to every given room, and that is why you must be extremely cautious when choosing tiles for your residence!

Whenever it comes to selecting tiling, the most prominent doubts are regarding the type of tiles, specifically to go with a time-trusted porcelain tile or the modern vitrified tiles. However, to come to a conclusion about which tiles fit well for your decor, you must first understand the difference between both. Here in this article we have compared porcelain vs vitrified tiles and tried to detail both materials and composition, also providing you with their features and advantages over the other.

Porcelain vs Vitrified Tiles: Difference Between Them

Porcelain and Vitrified tiles are popular due to their high structural durability. They have many similarities, but there are also significant variations seen between the two tiles.

The term "vitrified tiles" refers to tiles created using the vitrification method. Extreme heat is applied in this technique to bake the tiles. Porcelain tiles are often classified as complete vitrified tiles. It indicates that a porcelain tile absorbs less than 0.5 percent of its weight in water. 

Vitrified tiles get their name from the term 'vitrify,' which refers to the method of creating glass or something related to glassware. The term "vitrified tiles" refers to all tiles created utilizing the vitrification procedure. This tile is well-known for its ability to retain minimal moisture and to be resistant to stains. Vitrified tiles are made from a silica and clay blend. This combination is being used to create a non-porous tile with a glossy texture.

Comparison in Terms of Structure

Porcelain tiles are ceramic tiles that have been baked beyond to improve thickness, and durability, and to render the tiles impermeable properties. Vitrified tiles are made by vitrifying the tiles, this gives them a glass appearance and creates an extremely uniform and sturdy substance.

Differences in Terms of Manufacturing

Though they have a similar phase of baking at extremely high temperatures, their core manufacturing processes are different. Porcelain tiles are made using the Dust Press technique, whilst Vitrified tiles are made using the Hydraulic Press procedure.

Their Different Application

Both the tiles are perfect for domestic usage however when there is too much traffic vitrified tiles make more sense as they are known to be more durable. Porcelain tiles may be utilized in both domestic and light business spaces. Vitrified tiles can be utilized in both household and high-traffic business spaces where there is heavy footfall expected.

Different Varieties 

Vitrified tiles are available in more options as opposed to porcelain tiles. since Porcelain tiles mainly are available in two different types i.e., glazed porcelain tiles and unglazed porcelain tiles. Whereas, vitrified tiles are available in more varieties such as soluble salt vitrified tiles, double charge vitrified tiles, whole body vitrified tiles, and glazed vitrified tiles.

Different Finishes

In terms of different finishes, vitrified tiles are available in only glossy texture as they are manufactured for that specific appeal. On the other hand, porcelain tiles may be available in different finishes and textures such as glossy, matt, etc.

Difference in Cost

Porcelain tiles are generally more expensive than other tiles in the market but in comparison to vitrified tiles, they are cheaper and come in more varieties. Vitrified tiles because of their intricate manufacturing procedure cost a bit more than porcelain tiles.

Ease of Installation

When it comes to installation porcelain tiles are known to be more difficult to install because of the denser composition that makes them heavier. On the other hand, vitrified tiles are engineered to be easier to handle and hence are easier to install.

Other Differences

Porcelain and Vitrified tiles are equally robust, resilient, scratching resilient, impact-resistant, resilient to acids, chemical resistant, resistant to excessive moisture, and may be used both indoors and outdoors.

When it comes to choosing between the two, there is no clear winner as both are durable and offer more functionality than other tiling options. Both these titles are also available in a plethora of designs and patterns which makes them aesthetically more appealing. Hence, it would be a matter of personal choice when making an informed decision based on the comparison between porcelain vs vitrified tile.