Difference between Vitrified Tiles and Semi Vitrified Tiles

Key Difference: Vitrified tiles possess the property of less water retention and these tiles are popular for their strength and great resistance for stains. These tiles are made by the process of vitrification and that is why they are referred as vitrified tiles. The semi vitrified tiles are also vitrified tiles and the water absorption of these tiles is around 0.5 to 3 percent of their weight.

You enter at your friend’s house and you get amazed by the flooring tiles. They are shining like glass and you are just thinking how beautifully these tiles are complimenting your friend’s house. Tiles are mainly used for the decoration purpose. There are numerous options in the market to choose from. The vitrified tiles are preferred for their durability as well as look. Let us differentiate between a vitrified and semi vitrified tile.

Both these tiles are formed by the process of vitrification. That is why these tiles are named after the process. Vitrified tiles relate to the word ‘vitrify’ that refers to change into glass or something that appears almost like a glass. Vitrified tiles are composed of a mixture containing silica and clay. This mixture is used to form a non-porous tile that has a glassy texture. The key word is here ‘vitrification’.

The process that is used in vitrified tiles is related to the vitrification process and thus these tiles posses a look similar to the glass. These tiles are non-porous and thus are considered to be very durable. Vitrified porcelain tiles are example of these kinds of tiles. The vitrified porcelain tiles are produced by a mixture of kaolin clays, quartz, and feldspar and then the mixture is fired at 1200-1300 degrees, in order to make uniform and compact tiles.

The vitrified tiles can be broadly divided into three categories-

Fully vitrified or vitrified tiles: - water absorption is upto 0.5 percent of its weight. These tiles are preferred for the showrooms and the shops. Fully vitrified tiles show high mechanical strength and high resistance to staining.

Normal vitrified tiles: - water absorption is around 0.5 to 3 percent of its weight. It is generally dry pressed.

Semi vitrified tiles: - water absorption is around 3 to 6 percent of its weight. These tiles are used for both indoor and outdoor.

One of the disadvantages of using vitrified tiles is that it lacks the natural patterns that are found in marble or granite. The floor with these tiles also becomes slippery if it is wet.

Therefore, we can say that a semi vitrified tile is a vitrified tile with water absorption capacity of 0.5 to 3 percent to its weight. These are popular due to the durability factor. They also look very beautiful as the glass finish is quite apparent in these tiles.

Image Courtesy: architectureideas.info, livantoceramic.com