Since the beginning of time, ceramic tiles have been the popular choice for counter tops, walls, floors and even in roofing in every home. Vitrified tiles on the other hand have the distinct facade of colored glass. The word “vitrify” literally refers to the phrase “to change into glass or anything that looks like glass by undergoing some heat process. If you really want to know what’s up with these two, you better check the tale of the tape, ceramic tiles versus vitrified tiles.
When it comes to properties, ceramic and vitrified tiles are both products of men or man made products, as it is popularly called. Ceramic are created from clay. The clay body is topped with a ceramic glaze. On the other hand, vitrified tiles are made by fusing silica and clay. The mixture are then heated or placed under high – fiery temperatures, which would then result to a non – porous tile with glass – like texture. The vitrified type doesn’t need additional glaze to be added on to it.
Concerning the price tag, ceramics are definitely cheaper. However, both of them come in huge varieties of prices, colors, patterns and sizes. But ceramics are far cheaper and are much more commonly used at home compared to the vitrified ones. So when it comes to the price, ceramic tiles are much more desirable than vitrified.
When durability is concerned, vitrified tiles are sure winners. These tiles are much stronger than natural granite, which is one of the most durable products for modern homes. Vitrified tiles owns ceramic tiles when strength with regards to strength, ability to resist scratches and ability to withstand acids, alkalis, and chemicals without being damaged.
The composition of vitrified tiles is homogenous in nature. Ceramic tiles only have a decorative glaze on top of its clay layer. To achieve a glossy look, vitrified tiles are manually polished. Ceramic tiles however bases its beauty to the durability of the glaze applied over it. However, most glazes are not that durable and scratch resistant and over time, it yellows, it cracks and it chips.
Both vitrified and ceramic tiles are difficult to stain because of its non – porous properties. However, the grout that places them intact is the one who is more likely to be stained.
Maintaining vitrified tiles and ceramic tiles don’t go far off from each other. Both have nearly similar ways of maintenance and cleaning. Both vitrified and ceramic doesn’t need any special maintenance ritual after installation. Cleaning both types of tiles is also not so difficult. Both can be cleaned using a damp cloth. However, if the going gets tough, the tough gets rougher. In cases that your tiles are really greasy, you could use strong cleaning chemicals such as detergents and bleach. It is safe to use these chemicals on any type of vitrified tiles or ceramic tiles. The non – porous surface of both tiles makes it impossible for molds and mildew to occur. That is why it is perfect for pools, bathrooms and kitchens.
