Porcelain Tiles vs. Vitrified Tiles: Which Is Best for Your Home?

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Tiles are an important aspect of residential as well as commercial spaces. The usage of tiles is varied – indoors or outdoors, both for functional and aesthetic purposes. Tiles come in different types, sizes, finishes and colours. The two kinds of tiles that are quite popular today are vitrified and porcelain. Before you decide which tile is perfect for your requirements, understand how to choose between the two types. 

Here we will compare the two types in terms of their properties, usage and installation styles. This will help you make an informed decision. 

Properties of Porcelain vs. Vitrified Tiles

• The significant aspect that differentiates porcelain from vitrified tiles is their manufacturing process and the temperature of firing. Porcelain tiles are stronger because of the higher temperature at which they are fired. Porcelain tiles can either be glazed or unglazed.
• While both porcelain and vitrified tiles have a low rate of water absorption, porcelain tiles have a slight edge over vitrified tiles. Vitrified tiles have a water absorption rate that is lower than 1% while porcelain tiles generally have a water absorption rate that is lower than 0.5%. This makes them highly suitable for spaces that are prone to moisture, including kitchens, bathrooms, and even outdoor areas that are exposed to water. The customer just needs to ensure that they have installed unglazed and matte finish tiles in such areas. 
• Vitrified and porcelain tiles are both durable and resistant to wear and tear, chipping, and scratches to a large extent. Vitrified tiles are quite good against heavy footfall and thus can be installed in commercial spaces with high foot traffic.
• Both vitrified tiles and porcelain tiles come in different finishes including textured, glossy, and matte. A glossy finish is more popular in the case of vitrified tiles while a nature-inspired matte finish is popular in porcelain tiles.

Installation of Porcelain vs. Vitrified Tiles

As porcelain and vitrified tiles share a lot of properties, their method of installation is also quite similar, yet there are some subtle differences which are as follows:

• Preparation of substrate: You can install vitrified tiles on various clean and levelled substrates such as concrete, screed, tiled surface, etc.  In the case of porcelain tiles, the substrate needs to be strong enough to support the weight of the denser tiles.
• Adhesive: Vitrified tiles use cementitious tile adhesive, while porcelain tiles generally require epoxy-based or polymer-modified adhesive.
• Cutting: Vitrified tiles can be cut using a wet saw or a tile cutter. Porcelain tiles may need a special diamond wet saw and a similar tool to cut them due to their denser nature.
• Grouting: Both porcelain and vitrified tiles need grouting, but since vitrified tiles are much denser and harder than porcelain tiles, grouting must be done with greater care and precision. 

Cost Comparison: Porcelain vs. Vitrified Tiles

There are a number of factors that should be considered when one is considering the cost of porcelain tiles vs. vitrified tiles. Porcelain tiles are usually costly as they are denser and more processed by a higher quality production. In spite of the additional cost, their advanced look and organic textures usually make it worth the investment, especially in upscale homes and corporate use.

Vitrified tiles, for comparison, are generally less expensive and easier to come by with glossy or matte finishes. Both have approximately similar installation costs, but vitrified tiles will often be quicker to install since they’re so consistent, which will serve to reduce labour costs.

It is with long-term value that the real difference lies. Porcelain vs vitrified tiles reveal that while porcelain offers higher scratch resistance and stain-resistant qualities, vitrified tiles are cleaner and easier to keep. Depending on the application, the value difference between vitrified tiles and porcelain can swing in favour of vitrified for budget-friendly projects and porcelain for luxury spaces with demanding aesthetic requirements.

Best Uses for Porcelain and Vitrified Tiles

To a large extent, vitrified and porcelain tiles can be used interchangeably unless a specific requirement for either one is necessary. Vitrified tiles are perfect for areas with heavy traffic, while porcelain tiles work best in areas that are prone to moisture.

Vitrified tiles, as compared to porcelain, have a limited number of colours and designs, whereas porcelain has a huge range to choose from.

Which one should you choose – Porcelain or Vitrified tiles?

Some important factors to consider when choosing between vitrified or porcelain tiles are durability, design, budget, maintenance and finish.

But if you are confused about selecting the ideal one, here’s in-depth detail about each one. Talking about vitrified floor tiles, their exceptional resilience makes them an ideal choice for areas that bear heavy footfall. Their low level of porosity reduces maintenance expenses by providing moisture and stain resistance. These tiles are an appealing yet practical choice for buyers. Another advantage of these tiles is their easy availability in a diverse range of design and size options.

Porcelain tiles can endure a very long period as they offer a high level of scratch resistance. Also, they come in a variety of patterns and finishes, which is why they are so well-liked by homeowners who appreciate longevity and no maintenance.

If resilience and low upkeep are crucial to you, vitrified tiles can be an ideal choice overall, especially for buyers on a budget. However, if you’re ready to pay a little bit extra for a wider variety of designs, porcelain material tiles can be a preferred choice.

Choosing between porcelain and vitrified tiles can be a difficult choice, as both tiles share a lot of characteristics. It is always recommended to look at certain factors, including durability, porosity, water absorption, resistance to stains and scratches, etc. while buying tiles. Choose the tile depending on the area of usage and aesthetic requirement.

Porcelain and Vitrified tiles can both look quite beautiful in the house and are available in different colours, designs, and patterns. 

Still wondering how a tile would look in your home? Orientbell Tiles has got you covered and will help you choose the best design for your use with the help of  TriaLook – a visualisation tool that allows you to see how a particular tile will look in your room.

Design Options for Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles come in marble and textured options. You can learn more about them in the following points. 

• Marble Tiles: Marble porcelain tiles deliver subtle veining and a matte finish, providing an elegant and easy-to-maintain surface. You can pick GFT FT Sabbia Brown to create sophisticated settings, as it is perfect for adding timeless beauty and charm. 
• Texture Tiles: Textured porcelain tiles feature varied surfaces, enhancing depth and interest in any design. You can choose GFT FT Marco Beige DK to provide a tactile element and improve slip resistance. 

Vitrified Tile Design and Style Options

Compared to porcelain tiles, you can explore vitrified tiles in a wider range of designs, allowing you to express your creative thoughts. Here is a list of choices for vitrified tiles for you to check out. 

• Wooden Tiles: Replicating the warmth of the wood, wooden vitrified tiles, like DR Natural Rotowood Creama, DR Natural Rotowood Silver, DR DGVT Lumber Oak Wood, and DR DGVT Virginia Oak Wood, offer a rustic charm without the high maintenance needs. They are durable and versatile for your indoor and outdoor spaces. 
• Granite Tiles: Known for their strength and natural beauty, granite tiles, like Nu River Red, and Nu River Smoky are scratch-resistant and heat-resistant. They provide a polished look, perfect for countertops and flooring. 
• Marble Tiles: Marble vitrified tiles feature unique veining and a smooth finish, delivering luxury and sophistication. You can pick DR Matte Endless Canova Statuario, DR Matte Breccia Blue Gold Vein, DR Carving Endless Rondline Ash, DR Super Gloss Blue Marble Stone LT, and DR Gloss Endless Softmarbo Beige, to elevate any space, adding elegance to floors, walls, and countertops. 
• Mosaic Tiles: Mosaic vitrified tiles, like Craftclad Mosaic 4×8 Grey, Craftclad Stone Square Multi, ODM Moroccan 3×3 EC Grey Multi, and OHG Sand Mosaic Grey HL, have intricate patterns and designs. They are available in various materials and colours, perfect for adding visual interest and creativity to surfaces. 
• Geometric Tiles: Bold and modern, geometric tiles, such as Carving Decor Geometric Line Art, Decor Geometric Multi, Decor Geometric Floral Grey, and ODH Celesta Triangle Grey HL, feature striking shapes and patterns. They can transform spaces with their contemporary flair, making a stylish statement in any room. 
• Moroccan Tiles: Moroccan vitrified tiles are characterised by bright tones and detailed patterns. You can select colourful options, like DR Rustica Decor Cloudy Moroccan Art, DR Emboss Gloss Moroccan Art Brown, DR Gloss Décor Moroccan Art Blue, and DR Decor Portuguese Art Multi, to evoke a sense of art and culture. They can bring warmth and character to both, traditional and modern decor. 
• Terrazzo Tiles: These tile options have designs of chips of marble, glass, and quartz. You can opt for WZ Sahara Terrazzo Creama Glossy, WZ Sahara Terrazzo Choco Matt, and DR DGVT Terrazzo Multi, to offer a unique, speckled look. They are durable and perfect for both floors and countertops. 
• Cement Tiles: Cement vitrified tiles feature bold or soft tones while offering durability. You can go for Step Sahara Choco, DR Matte Coquina Sand Ivory, WZ Sahara Choco, Sahara Rich Choco, DR Matte Coquina Sand Creama, and Streak Sahara Choco, to add a vintage or rustic charm to any ambience.
• Textured Tiles: With varied surfaces, textured tiles, like DR Rustica Natural Stone Cotto, DR Rustica Foggy Smoke, DR Linea Decor Travertine Moroccan, Linea Decor Sandy Smoke Multi, and Linea Decor Leaf Multi, enhance depth and dimension. They provide a unique experience while improving slip resistance, making them suitable for diverse environments. 

Maintenance and Durability: Which Tile Lasts Longer?

The choice of porcelain vs vitrified tiles depends on the application area where they are fitted. Porcelain tiles are highly durable with their compact body and low water absorption, hence ideal for both commercial and domestic use. Porcelain tiles resist scratches, water, and wear and tear—ideal for areas with high foot traffic like kitchens, hallways, or commercial shops.

Equally strong and durable but slightly less dense are Vitrified tiles. Their glossy surface is stain-resistant and easy to clean but slippery when wet. Vitrified tiles are a popular option for regular Indian homes that require low-maintenance glamour.

Both tiles perform well when it comes to maintenance, but porcelain may require less frequent cleaning because of its natural resistance to dirt. Both also last for 15–25 years, but porcelain tiles are more durable when subjected to heavy traffic or outdoor areas. What must be kept in mind, however, is that any tile will only last long if good cleaning and regular maintenance are practised.

Porcelain vs. Vitrified: Which One To Choose?

When picking the best tiles, it is essential to weigh their features carefully to make a wise decision. While both types are durable and stylish, vitrified tiles offer remarkable longevity, particularly in busy areas, making them ideal for commercial environments. Porcelain tiles typically offer superior performance concerning water absorption, with a rate of under 0.5% compared to vitrified tiles’ rate of under 1%. This makes porcelain a better pick for wet areas. However, the robust design of vitrified tiles ensures they withstand wear and tear while remaining easy to maintain, making them suitable for a wide section of areas. Additionally, both porcelain and vitrified tiles come in diverse styles and designs, allowing for greater creative expression. For those prioritising durability and adaptability, vitrified tiles are a great choice that combines functionality with visual appeal.