Vitrified Tiles: Meaning, Types and Price
Vitrified tiles are the most popular floor tiles in Indian homes today. You will find them in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, offices, and shops. But what exactly are they, and why are they so widely used? This guide explains vitrified tiles meaning, the main types, how they compare with other tiles, and what they cost.
Vitrified Tiles Meaning
Vitrified tiles are made from a mix of clay, silica, quartz, and feldspar. The mix is pressed hard and fired at a very high heat. During firing, the silica melts and fuses into a glass-like body. This process is called vitrification, which is where the name comes from.
The result is a dense, hard tile that soaks up very little water. Under the Indian standard IS 15622 for ceramic tiles, true vitrified tiles have water absorption of 0.5% or less. Normal ceramic tiles absorb much more.
Why Vitrified Tiles Are So Popular
- Strong: They resist cracks, chips, and scratches well.
- Low water absorption: Great for kitchens, bathrooms, and Chennai’s humid weather.
- Stain resistant: Spills like tea, oil, and turmeric wipe off easily.
- Low maintenance: No polishing or sealing needed.
- Huge choice: Marble, wood, stone, cement, and plain colour looks.
- Large sizes: From 600×600 mm up to big slabs for seamless floors.
Types of Vitrified Tiles
1. Soluble Salt Vitrified Tiles
The design is printed on the surface and then polished. These are the most budget-friendly, but the design can wear in busy areas over time.
2. Double Charge Vitrified Tiles (DCVT)
Two layers of pigment are pressed together, creating a thick design layer about 3 to 4 mm deep. They are very durable and suit high-traffic areas like halls and offices.
3. Glazed Vitrified Tiles (GVT and PGVT)
A glaze layer is added on top, then printed with digital designs. This gives realistic marble, wood, and stone looks. PGVT means polished glazed vitrified tiles, which have a glossy finish.
4. Full Body Vitrified Tiles (FBVT)
The colour runs through the full thickness of the tile. Chips and scratches barely show. These are the toughest and suit heavy-use areas like parking, shops, and outdoor spaces.
We explain these in more detail in our guide on full body vs double charge vs glazed vitrified tiles.
Vitrified vs Other Flooring Options
| Feature | Vitrified Tiles | Ceramic Tiles | Natural Marble | Granite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water absorption | Very low | Higher | Medium, can stain | Low |
| Maintenance | Very easy | Easy | Needs polishing | Easy |
| Design choice | Very wide | Wide | Natural only | Natural only |
| Best for | Most floors | Walls, light floors | Luxury floors | Kitchens, stairs |
Vitrified Tiles Price
Prices vary by type, size, brand, and finish. As a rough guide, a Housing.com review of tile prices puts vitrified tiles at about ₹60 to ₹120 per sq ft, with double charge tiles at about ₹100 to ₹250. Premium large slabs can cost more. Always ask for a current quote, as rates change.
Where to Use Vitrified Tiles
- Living room and hall: Polished or satin large-format tiles.
- Bedroom: Wood-look or soft marble-look GVT.
- Kitchen: Matte vitrified tiles that hide stains.
- Bathroom floor: Anti-skid vitrified tiles.
- Parking and outdoor: Full body or heavy-duty vitrified tiles.
Drawbacks to Know
- Glossy vitrified tiles can be slippery when wet.
- They feel cool underfoot, which is pleasant in Chennai but less so in cold places.
- Large slabs need skilled installers and proper adhesive.
- A badly cracked tile has to be replaced, so keep spares.
How to Check You Are Buying Real Vitrified Tiles
- Look for the water absorption figure on the box. It should be 0.5% or less.
- Check the brand and batch number.
- Look at the tile edge. Full body tiles show the same colour all the way through.
- Buy from a trusted dealer who can share product details.
Buy Vitrified Tiles in Chennai
See every type of vitrified tile side by side at our multi-brand tiles showroom. Our team has guided Chennai homeowners since 1983 and can help you match the right tile to each room. For design ideas, read our floor tiles design guide and our floor tiles 2×2 price list.
FAQs on Vitrified Tiles
What is the meaning of vitrified tiles?
Vitrified tiles are tiles fired at high heat until the body turns glass-like. This makes them dense, strong, and very low in water absorption.
Are vitrified tiles good for flooring?
Yes. They are one of the best flooring choices for Indian homes because they are strong, stain resistant, and easy to clean.
Which is better, vitrified or ceramic tiles?
Vitrified is better for floors. Ceramic is a good, lower-cost choice for walls.
Are vitrified tiles slippery?
Polished ones can be when wet. Choose matte or anti-skid vitrified tiles for wet areas.
