FT NEWS

Vitrified tiles are getting increasingly popular, and after all, why not? They come with enhanced properties – they are highly durable, able to withstand heavy traffic, affordable, maintenance-free, and resistant to scratches, stains and acids. They are even becoming a preferred alternative to natural flooring materials like marble or granite.

Since there are a variety of designs and options of vitrified tiles available in the market, here are the parameters that will help you to zero in on your preference.

1. Select tiles from reputed brands
It is advisable to purchase tiles only from reputed tile manufacturing brands.

Do note that unverified (what the traders term ‘local’) manufacturing brands of vitrified tiles might lack strength and tend to crack over a period of time.

2. Check technical specifications
Vitrified tiles are very dense, hence non-porous. It is important to check the technical specifications of the tile and ensure that the tile does not absorb more than 0.1 per cent of water by weight of the tile; tiles with less water absorption are stronger and more durable. The thickness of the vitrified tile should be at least 8 millimetres.

3. Select the preferred size of the tile
The standard vitrified tile sizes that are available in the market are 600x600, 800x800 and 1000x1000 millimetres. Consider larger tiles for the living room because, with fewer visible joint lines, they can make the home look spacious. One can choose the smaller tile sizes for the bedroom or the entire home in the case of compact apartments.

4. Choose the pattern and colour
These tiles are available in numerous designs and colours. One can choose from a wide range of plain colours, two-tone colours or printed vitrified tiles.
Choose light-coloured tiles to give a spacious look to your home. If you love the natural look of marble, then opt for printed vitrified tiles that replicate the natural grain of marble.

5. Calculate the quantity of tiles
Make sure to calculate the quantity of tiles required for the home before going for tile selection. Buy at least 5–10 per cent extra tiles, which will take care of the wastage due to tile cutting during tile installation.

There maybe slight colour variation in tiles that are manufactured in two different batches, so it is advisable to order the entire quantity of tiles at one go, to avoid any type of colour mismatch.