Here are the pros and cons of the two most common types of tiles used in homes: ceramic and vitrified tiles.

Ceramic tiles

These tiles are made with natural clay mixed with water and then baked in a kiln. They have a natural, earthy look, come in a variety of colours and sizes, and are most often glazed, for protection against water, stains and scratches.

They are rarely used in their unglazed form. The hard protective layer provided by the glaze makes these tiles a good bet for flooring, walls, backsplashes and countertops. They are most commonly used in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens, as they are water-resistant, easy to clean and less prone to harbouring germs.

Pros

• Ceramic tiles are easy to maintain. Soap and warm water work well most of the time to remove dirt and grime. For tough stains, strong agents can be used without fear of damage to tiles.

• They are cost effective. Ceramic tiles are relatively cheaper than most other kinds of tiles.

• They offer endless design options. Ceramic tiles can be made in a variety of colours, shapes, sizes, patterns and textures.

• They are easy to replace. If a tile (or several) get damaged, they can be changed.

Cons

• It is difficult to maintain grout lines. While the tiles themselves are low-maintenance, the grout lines require sealing to avoid moisture and mildew seeping in (the latter can be managed with a little vinegar and water).

• Ceramic tiles are not the best option for flooring in cold climes. Ceramic tiles can get very cold in the winter, proving extremely unpleasant to bare feet.

• Direct sunlight may fade the colour over time.

• They are restricted in size. Ceramic tiles rarely come in sizes larger than 12 inches x 12 inches.

Vitrified tiles

Vitrified tiles are similar to ceramic tiles – with the difference that the clay is mixed with silica, quartz and feldspar before being fired in the kiln. These extra ingredients, when baked at high temperatures, fuse together, creating a vitreous surface that is glossy and hard. The tile gets its name from the process of manufacturing, called vitrification.

Vitrified tiles are extremely durable and low on maintenance, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. That’s why they are used extensively in commercial areas.

They are a less expensive alternative to natural stone such as marble and granite, while offering similar looks and better durability. This makes them a good choice for residences.

Pros

• Vitrified tiles are hard, virtually non-porous and impervious to stains and scratches, making them ideal indoors as well as outdoors.

• The dye mixed in the clay before it is fired gives the tile a uniform colour right through, so even if the tile is scratched, the colour will stay the same.

• They can be used within 48 hours of laying, as they need practically no setting time or polishing.

• Vitrified tiles are available in large sizes, so the number of joints are fewer.

Cons

• The installation of vitrified tiles is a painstaking affair, as the tiles need to be laid evenly, with barely noticeable joints. They also need a stronger adhesive than ceramic tiles, making them more expensive to install.

• The tiles themselves are more expensive than ceramic tiles because of their extra qualities.

• Glossy vitrified tiles (as opposed to the matte ones) can be extremely slippery when wet.

• Vitrified tiles are not environment-friendly as the process of making them is heavy in the use of energy and production of carbon dioxide.

So, which is better: vitrified or ceramic tiles?

You don’t have to pick one over the other; use a combination of the two types, depending on the place and the look needed. Vitrified tiles work well for flooring; however, for a little more character and colour and to balance out the slightly industrial, man-made look of vitrified tiles, use ceramic.

Prefer using vitrified tiles for high-traffic areas (the living room, bedroom) and the outdoors; ceramic for the kitchen, bathroom and stairs. However, there are no hard and fast rules – the deciding factor would be the overall look you are trying to create.