For bathroom floors in India, which of these tile types is better to use if cost is not an issue, ceramic or vitrified?

Both ceramic and vitrified tiles, both can be used for bathroom floor tiles. Both types of tiles are available in different variety of colors, design pattern and sizes. Though being used for the same purpose, there is some major difference between ceramic and vitrified tiles, i.e. their properties, availability, etc. Hence, here is a brief comparison of ceramic tiles vs vitrified tiles which will help you to make the correct choice.


Ceramic Tiles
  1. Ceramic tile is made up of a mixture of clay (which is generally known as earthen clay) and water only.
  2. Ceramic tiles flooring are ideal for wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, etc. as the tiles are not very slippery. But they are less resistant to water.
  3. Ceramic tiles have a natural and earthy look in comparison to the artificial look of vitrified tiles.
  4. The comparatively rough and external glaze is applied for the glossy look.
  5. Ceramic tiles always have to be glazed for protection.
  6. It is less durable as compared to vitrified tiles.
  7. It has a low flexural strength (22N/mm2) and low breaking strength (200N).
  8. It is very porous and hence absorbs water quickly. So the use of ceramic tiles in the outdoor area will cause the tiles to develop cracks quickly.
  9. It has a low resistance to scratches. So the color of the ceramic tiles does not remain the same throughout its surface over a period of time.
  10. It is not very slippery as compared to vitrified tiles. Ceramic tiles can be treated to prevent slipping either by adding an abrasive grit to the glaze or texture to the surface.

Vitrified Tiles:
  1. The term “Vitrified” means to convert into the glass-like substance. It is made by a mixture of clay silica, quartz, feldspar which is a constituent mineral found in granite rock.
  2. Vitrified wall tiles are most suitable for wet areas like the bathroom, kitchen, etc.
  3. It is the most suitable for high traffic areas like public area, i.e. bank, corporate offices due to their aesthetic look and more durable.
  4. The vitrified tiles have an artificial look compared to the natural look of ceramic tiles.
  5. It is smooth and glossy. So it will give you an aesthetic look and it is easy to clean.
  6. Vitrified tiles need not be glazed. The shine can be given with manual polish.
  7. It is more durable as compared to ceramic tiles due to their glass-like surface.
  8. It has high flexural strength (35N/mm2) and high breaking strength (700N).
  9. It is non-porous and hence absorption of water is negligible. So, it is most suitable for wet areas.
  10. Vitrified tiles have more resistance to scratches. So even when tiles are scratched, the color of the tiles will remain the same.
  11. They are very slippery as compared to ceramic tiles. Vitrified tiles are very slippery when wet.


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