Key Difference: Vitrified tiles refer to any of the tiles that are made by the process of vitrification. In this process, high temperatures are used for baking the tiles. Glazed tiles refer to the tiles having a shiny glazed surface. A coating of glaze is applied to the tiles and then they are set to fire at a very high temperature.

If you are thinking of installing new tiles on the floors or walls of your house then you might get familiar with many words like vitrified, glazed, porcelain, etc. It can become difficult for you to differentiate between them. This article will bring out the differences between the two popular types of tiles- vitrified and glazed tiles. 

Vitrified Tiles have got the name from the term 'vitrify' which refers to the process of making a glass or similar to a glass. The tiles that are made using the method of vitrification fall in the category of the vitrified tiles. The tile is known for its less capacity to absorb water and also for being stain resistant. Vitrified tiles are usually composed of a mixture containing silica and clay. This mixture is used to form a non-porous tile that has a glassy texture.

Glaze refers to a smooth, shiny coating or finish. Therefore, glazed tiles are the tiles that have a smooth and shiny coating or finish on them. A glaze is applied to the tiles and then they are baked. Glazed tiles provide a lot of options like tiles with high-gloss, matte, or abrasive slip-resistant finishes. They are also available in decorative styles with various attractive patterns. Some of the tiles also have hand painted designs.

You might be thinking that how the glaze is applied. It is usually sprayed or painted on the tile. Then the tile is baked at a very high temperature. Due to the high temperatures the tile’s glaze is vitrified and the shiny glaze is obtained. The glazed tiles are preferred for various reasons like:-

1. Attractive looks
2. Water resistant
3. Stain resistant
4. variety of options available in the market

One of the disadvantages with the glazed tiles is that when these tiles are chipped, the exposed area of the tiles exhibit the non glazed surface. Thus, proper care needs to be taken of the glazed tiles.

Vitrified tiles may refer to any of the tiles that have been baked under very high temperatures and due to which these tiles absorb less water. On the other hand, glazed tiles are the tiles with the glaze on them. A coating of glaze is applied to the tiles and then they are set to fire at very high temperature, and it provides a shining texture to the tiles. However, a vitrified tile can be either glazed or non-glazed.

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