1. Where to Use Different Tile Types
As a rule of thumb, vitrified tiles are best for floors, while ceramic tiles are great for walls. Here’s why:
- Strength and Durability: Vitrified tiles are stronger and better at withstanding heavy loads, making them ideal for flooring. Ceramic tiles, though stylish, are less resistant to weight and impact and are more suitable for walls.
- Water Absorption: Vitrified tiles don’t absorb water, which keeps them stain-resistant and long-lasting, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Ceramic tiles, on the other hand, do absorb water, which is why they’re submerged in water during installation to help them stick to walls better.
2. Choosing the Right Tile for Each Room
For areas that may get wet, such as bathrooms and kitchens, it’s important to go with anti-skid tiles to prevent slipping accidents. There are many anti-skid designs available in the market, so you can prioritize both safety and style.
3. Scratch Resistance and Maintenance
Ceramic tiles can start showing scratches over time, especially if applied to the floor. Vitrified tiles, however, are designed with scratch resistance in mind, although minor scratches may still occur. These tiles require low maintenance and only need grout filling every 3–4 years to keep water out and maintain their original look.
4. How to Identify Vitrified vs. Ceramic Tiles
One simple way to identify the tile type is by checking the back side:
- Vitrified tiles have a white base on the back.
- Ceramic tiles have a reddish base.
When purchasing tiles, stick to this identification method to avoid being sold the wrong type, as some contractors may try to convince you otherwise.
5. Cost Differences
Tile pricing varies widely based on quality, thickness, and design:
- Ceramic tiles can start as low as Rs. 15/sq. ft. and may go up to Rs. 400/sq. ft.
- Vitrified tiles typically start at Rs. 30/sq. ft. and can range up to Rs. 500/sq. ft.
6. Outdoor Flooring Tips
For outdoor spaces, consider using tiles with a thickness of at least 15mm if you’ll be driving or parking on them. Thinner tiles may crack under the weight of vehicles.
What to Look Out For During Tile Installation
In my next post, I’ll share some tips for supervising tile installation. These will help ensure that your tiles are laid correctly, even if you’re unfamiliar with the technical aspects of tiling. Whether you’re an IT professional, a homemaker, or a café owner, these tips will be easy to understand and follow.
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide has made the process of choosing tiles simpler and clearer.
