Porcelain Tiles vs Vitrified Tiles: Which is Best for Your Space?

| Catagory : BLOG

Building a house or renovating your home involves many decisions, including choosing the right tiles for your space. Porcelain tiles and Vitrified tiles are two very popular options that can change the overall feel of your home, but which of the two is the right one for you? In this blog, we are going to compare Porcelain tiles vs Vitrified tiles for aesthetics, durability, cost, and more. So, let’s get started!

Porcelain Tiles: Classic and Durable

Porcelain tiles are famous for their high strength and versatility. Thus, these tiles can be best used in heavy-traffic areas and outdoor spaces due to their use of much denser clay at much higher temperatures. Their ability to imitate natural materials such as hardwood and stone allows them to bring elegance without the hefty maintenance. Whether you are decking out a patio or a posh dining room, Porcelain offers a luxurious look with the resilience to back it up.

We also bring in a wide variety of Porcelain elevation tiles that can be arranged to make for elegant feature walls. Similarly, it can add a dash of colour and texture to your outdoor spaces. They are perfect for giving your walls a sleek, modern look without compromising on functionality. The EL 905 series, for instance, brings a luxurious, contemporary feel to any room, while the EL 701 series mimics the elegance of natural stone, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Vitrified Tiles: Sturdy and Low on Maintenance

Vitrified tiles are almost similar in process to produce as Porcelain tiles, but they undergo heat at an extremely higher temperature, which creates a non-porous, very durable surface that can also resist moisture, stains and scratches very well, hence a popular choice for high-traffic areas and spaces requiring extra durability.

Our Vitrified Tiles range is vast and offers options that are both practical and visually stunning. One example in this range is the Ironwood Verde series. It comes with a contemporary style in a natural wood finish but will still boast of the durability of Vitrified tiles. This 8026_8027 series tile offers a stone-look finish, which is an excellent way to create cosy, stylish spaces without compromising strength and durability.

Perhaps the biggest advantage of Vitrified tiles is low maintenance, plus its strengths. Additionally, since they do not absorb moisture or stains, cleaning them is a pretty simple process, and a quick sweep and mop will maintain their finish, making them ideal for busy households and high-traffic spaces.

Comparing Aesthetics: What is the Best Look for You?

If you are looking for something modern, clean, and sophisticated, Vitrified tiles can deliver that polished appearance. The Bookmatch_2001 range, for example, offers the elegance of marble, providing a refined, upscale look thats perfect for modern interiors.

Porcelain and Vitrified tiles can be installed in several types of finishes, ranging from glossy to matte and even textured, that gives you the opportunity to completely change the vibe inside your space. Lets compare these two options, considering factors such as:

Durability: Which One Lasts Longer?

Generally, Porcelain and Vitrified tiles have the ability to resist normal use. However, Porcelain seems to be slightly more durable. The density of Porcelain tiles is higher, and these tiles, therefore, can sustain extreme conditions. They can tolerate a great deal of weathering, and so are perfect for outdoor use. The Porcelain Elevation Tiles range from Simpolo Tiles and Bathware, designed specifically for wall applications, ensuring that your tiles maintain their look for years without fading or cracking.

Vitrified tiles are very strong and perfect for high-traffic areas like living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. They can withstand heavy foot traffic and maintain their shine for many years. While they are durable, its best to avoid using them in harsh outdoor conditions.

Related Read: 25 Single Floor House Designs

Cost Considerations: Finding the Best Value

While porcelain tiles are generally more expensive than vitrified tiles, they are also more durable and versatile. They can be used both indoors and outdoors, making them a long-term investment. However, vitrified tiles offer excellent value for money, especially for indoor use. They are durable, easy to maintain, and come in a wide range of designs and finishes.

Maintenance and Cleaning: Which Is Easier?

Both porcelain and vitrified tiles are easy to maintain. However, porcelain tiles may require some extra care, especially in humid areas. Sealing the tiles can help protect them from moisture damage.

Vitrified tiles are even easier to maintain, as they are non-porous and resistant to stains and moisture. Regular cleaning with mild detergent and warm water is usually sufficient.

Feature	Vitrified Tiles	Porcelain Tiles
Composition	Made from a mix of clay and elements like silica, quartz, and feldspar.	Made from refined clay and fired at higher temperatures, making them denser.
Appearance	Offers a glass-like shine and can mimic various textures and patterns.	Generally has a more natural look, and can also replicate materials like stone, wood, and marble.
Finish Options	Available in a range of finishes from glossy to matte.	Commonly found in matte finishes but also available in glossy and textured options.
Durability	Extremely hard and non-porous, making them durable and resistant to scratching.	Slightly more porous than Vitrified tiles but still very durable and suitable for heavy usage.
Water Resistance	Almost impervious to water, thanks to their low porosity.	Highly water-resistant, though slightly less than Vitrified due to inherent porosity.
Maintenance	Easy to clean and maintain; does not require frequent sealing.	Low maintenance; may require sealing depending on the type of Porcelain tile.
Cost	Generally more cost-effective than Porcelain tiles.	Tends to be more expensive due to its composition and the manufacturing process.
Installation	Easier to cut and handle due to their uniform composition and thickness.	Requires more skill to cut and install due to its hardness and density.
Ideal Usage	Suitable for high-traffic areas and commercial spaces due to their strength and durability.	Preferred in residential and upscale commercial spaces where aesthetics are prioritised.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the selection between Porcelain tiles vs Vitrified tiles depends on your individual choices and needs. For example, if you want to go for a more realistic look of outdoor space, then Porcelain Elevation Tiles are surely the best for you. You want a sleek, modern look with lower maintenance than the usual tiles? Then there is no need to go elsewhere because our Silversummer Moon or EL 709, EL 710, and EL 711 range from Simbolo Tiles and Bathware is for you. From the elegance of Porcelain Elevation Tiles to the functionality and beauty of Vitrified tiles, you will definitely find a tile that suits your style and budget.

Also Read: Ceramic vs Vitrified Tiles: Best Flooring for Your Home

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the main difference between Porcelain tiles vs Vitrified tiles?

Porcelain tiles are denser and slightly more durable, making them ideal for outdoor use. Vitrified tiles are more affordable and require less maintenance while still offering excellent durability for indoor spaces.

Which tile is better for outdoor spaces?

Porcelain tiles, particularly the Copos series, are more suited for outdoor use due to their ability to withstand temperature changes and harsh weather conditions.

How do I maintain Porcelain tiles?

Porcelain tiles require regular cleaning to maintain their shine and may need to be sealed for moisture resistance, especially in wet areas like bathrooms.

Are Vitrified tiles suitable for high-traffic areas?

Yes, Vitrified tiles from reputed brands are highly durable and ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms.

Can Porcelain tiles be used in wet areas?

Yes, Porcelain tiles are moisture-resistant and are perfect for wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. The Sofita Dove or Mono Gray Tiles range by Simpolo Tiles and Bathware are particularly suited for these areas.

Are Vitrified tiles more affordable than Porcelain?

Yes, generally, Vitrified tiles tend to be more affordable than Porcelain tiles, making them a cost-effective option for large-scale installations like flooring.

Do Vitrified tiles need sealing?

No, Vitrified tiles are non-porous and do not require sealing, unlike Porcelain tiles, which may need periodic sealing to maintain their performance.