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Branded vs. Non-Branded Tiles: Key Differences & Best Choices
Choosing the right tiles can be a game-changer for your home. In India, the choice between branded and non-branded tiles is significant. Branded tiles offer consistent quality, innovative designs, and reliable after-sales service, while non-branded tiles are more affordable but may vary in quality. This MyTyles blog discusses these differences, providing insights to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your vision and budget.
By Biren
Wed , Oct 04 , 2023
4 min read
Building a home is an adventure that is both exciting and challenging. Many homeowners face challenges such as selecting the right materials, budgeting, and ensuring project timelines are on schedule. Selecting quality tiles can make a huge difference in tackling some of these challenges. Good-quality tiles give your house a stunning look while offering benefits like durability, slip, moisture and stain resistance, and the cost associated with maintenance.
In the Indian market, the decision between local tiles vs branded tiles plays an important role in the construction process. Branded tiles are produced by well-established manufacturers that guarantee consistent quality, innovative designs, and reliable after-sales service. Non-branded or local tiles can be cheaper, but their quality and durability can vary. These differences are what make it so important to make an informed decision based on your vision and budget. In this MyTyles blog, we elaborate on the differences between branded and non-branded tiles and provide insights to guide your selection process.
What are Branded Tiles?
Branded tiles are products made by well-known companies that stand for quality and innovation. These tile brands invest in modern technology and ensure strict quality control to produce the best-quality tiles in accordance with industry standards. In India, the tile market has some of the big brands that come in a variety of designs, sizes, and finishes according to the choices of consumers. Brands producing tiles guarantee durability, aesthetic appeal, and assured after-sales service, which makes them a favorite for many home owners and builders. You can check out our list of the best tile brands in India to find the one that fits your needs.
What are Non-Branded Tiles?
Non-branded tiles are manufactured by small regional manufacturers. These local tiles are relatively cheaper than branded tiles. Therefore, they are a good choice for budget-conscious consumers. However, the tiles quality of normal tiles is not uniform because the quality control measures are not as stringent as those followed in the case of branded tiles. This variability might lead to design, size, and finish inconsistency, which might affect the installation's overall look and durability. Non-branded tiles are generally cheaper, but their quality has to be analyzed carefully to make sure they satisfy the specific demands of your project.
Differences Between Branded and Non-Branded Tiles
Understanding the differences between these choices is important in making an informed decision. Below, we have broken down the key differences that are crucial when deciding between branded vs. non-branded tiles.
Parameters | Branded Tiles | Non-Branded Tiles |
Quality | Manufactured with stringent quality control, ensuring uniformity in size, color, and finish. | May exhibit inconsistencies due to less rigorous manufacturing processes. |
Durability | High durability owing to superior materials and technology, often lasting longer. | Durability can vary; may require earlier replacement. |
Design Options | Offers a wide array of designs, patterns, and finishes, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences. | Limited design variety due to constrained production capabilities. |
Price | Generally higher, reflecting quality and brand assurance. | More affordable, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. |
Availability | Widely available through extensive distribution networks, ensuring consistent stock. | Availability may be limited to specific regions, with potential stock shortages. |
Warranty | Often accompanied by warranties, providing assurance of quality and longevity. | Typically lack warranties, placing the risk on the buyer. |
After-Sales Service | Provides robust after-sales support, including assistance with installation and maintenance. | Limited or no after-sales service, leading to potential challenges post-purchase. |
Sustainability | The best brand of tiles adheres to environmental standards, offering eco-friendly options. | Sustainability practices vary; may not prioritize eco-friendly manufacturing. |
Certifications | Possess industry certifications, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. | Often lack formal certifications, making quality assurance challenging. |
Pros and Cons of Branded Tiles
Branded tiles in India are manufactured by established companies that are known for their quality and innovation. The pros and cons of branded tiles are as follows:
Pros | Cons |
| Superior Quality: Tile brands in India create products that undergo stringent quality control measures, ensuring uniformity in size, color, and finish. | Higher Cost: The superior quality and brand assurance come at a premium price, which may not align with all budgets. |
| Enhanced Durability: Manufactured using high-grade materials and advanced technology, these tiles are designed to withstand wear and tear, making them a long-lasting option. | Limited Customization: While there is a broad range of designs, customization options may be limited compared to local artisans or smaller manufacturers. |
| Diverse Design Options: Tile brands offer a wide array of designs, patterns, and finishes, catering to various aesthetic preferences. | Potential for Counterfeits: The popularity of branded tiles can lead to counterfeit products in the market, necessitating careful sourcing from authorized dealers. |
| Warranty and After-Sales Support: The best tiles brands often offer purchasers the benefit of warranties and dedicated customer service, providing assurance and assistance post-purchase. |
Pros and Cons of Non-Branded Tiles
Non-branded tiles, which are also known as local tiles, are manufactured by local small-scale industries. There are pros and cons to choosing the non-branded tiles:
Pros | Cons |
| Affordability: Non-branded tiles are generally more budget-friendly, making them an attractive option for cost-conscious consumers. | Inconsistent Quality: Due to less stringent quality control measures, non-branded tiles may exhibit variations in size, color, and finish, potentially affecting the overall appearance of the installation. |
| Local Availability: Sourced from regional manufacturers, these tiles are often readily available in local markets, supporting the local economy. | Limited Durability: The materials and manufacturing processes used may not meet the standards of branded tiles, leading to reduced longevity and a higher likelihood of wear and tear. |
| Unique Designs: Some local manufacturers offer distinctive designs that may not be found in branded collections, catering to niche aesthetic preferences. | Lack of Warranty and After-Sales Support: Non-branded tiles typically do not come with warranties or dedicated customer service, leaving consumers without recourse in case of defects or issues post-installation. |
| Environmental Considerations: Smaller manufacturers may not adhere to sustainable practices or possess necessary environmental certifications, which could be a concern for eco-conscious buyers. |
Which Is Better for You?
It completely depends on your individual preferences; however, choosing between local tiles vs branded tiles requires consideration of several factors beyond budget, longevity, and design preferences. Here are five additional aspects to guide your decision:
- Application Area: The location or the specific area for the tile installation, be it the kitchen, bathroom, or an outdoor space, greatly influences the decision between branded and non-branded tiles. Branded tiles tend to have special products designed specifically for certain locations, ensuring proper performance and long life. Non-branded tiles may not have such specific designs, and this could negatively impact their usage in certain areas.
- Maintenance Needs: Think about the level of maintenance every type of tile has. Branded tiles usually come with extensive guidelines on maintenance and will often have finishes that will offer resistance from staining and scratching, thus ensuring minimal cleaning efforts. Non-branded tiles might lack such surface finishing, hence may demand more elaborate maintenance for them to appear aesthetically consistent.
- Slip Resistance: Safety is a fundamental aspect, which must be of top importance in bathroom and kitchen surroundings where moisture presence is more evident. Branded tiles are given certified slip resistance ratings. Non-branded tiles cannot have standardized ratings; hence, care should be exercised to check the slip resistance properties before being installed.
- Installation Complexity: The installation might differ in easy levels among tile types. Branded tiles are produced to exacting measurements and dimensions and usually uniform in quality; this makes installing them quite direct. Non-branded tiles would present different dimensional sizes; installation might require a bit of work, leading to labor increases in some areas.
- Environmental Impact: If sustainability is a concern, look into the environmental practices of tile manufacturers. Branded companies tend to be more environmentally friendly in their production processes, using sustainable materials and energy-efficient processes. Non-branded manufacturers may not be as concerned with environmental considerations, which can lead to a higher ecological footprint.
Making the Right Tile Choice: Branded vs. Non-Branded Tiles
The choice of tiles in home construction or renovation is a very important decision that impacts aesthetics and functionality altogether. Branded tiles represent exclusive features such as consistent quality, innovative designs, and reliable after-sales support. For this reason, many homeowners opt for branded tiles. Branded tiles, however, often come with a higher price tag than non-branded tiles. Non-branded tiles are available at lower prices but with variability in quality and not-so-consistent designs.
These are the reasons that understanding these differences is a must to make the right decision according to your specific needs and budget. You can make tile selection wisely by doing a thorough analysis of pros and cons for your better option. We, at MyTyles, have a great collection of top-quality tiles to fit every style and budget. Discover our selection today and let us help you transform your living spaces with tiles that are both beautiful and resilient.
FAQS
Q. Is there a difference between cheap and expensive tiles?
Ans. Yes, there are notable differences. Expensive tiles often use higher-grade materials, resulting in better durability, finish, and design precision. Cheaper tiles may have inconsistencies in size, color, and finish, potentially affecting the overall appearance and longevity of the installation.
Q. How can you identify branded tiles?
Ans. Branded tiles are easily identifiable by clear labeling that includes the manufacturer's name, logo, and product specifications. They are sold by authorized dealers who ensure authenticity and provide support for any complaints or queries.
Q. How can you tell good quality tiles?
Ans. Good-quality tiles have uniform size, shape, and color. They are free from visible defects like chips or cracks. Checking for water absorption rates, surface flatness, and edge precision can also help assess quality.
Q. What are non-branded tiles in India?
Ans. Non-branded tiles, often referred to as local tiles in India, are produced by smaller, regional manufacturers. They may offer unique designs at lower prices but can vary in quality and durability.
Q. What are the best-quality tiles available?
Ans. The best-quality tiles in India are typically made from high-grade materials, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal. Porcelain and vitrified tiles are renowned for their strength and low water absorption, making them suitable for various applications.
Q. Which are the best quality floor tiles?
Ans. For flooring, vitrified tiles are highly recommended due to their durability, low porosity, and resistance to stains and scratches. They are suitable for high-traffic areas and come in various designs and finishes.
Q. What is the local tile price range?
Ans. Local tiles in India are generally more affordable than branded options. Prices can vary based on material, design, and finish but typically range from ₹30 to ₹150 per square foot.
Q. Which are the best quality wall tiles?
Ans. Ceramic tiles are popular for wall applications due to their lightweight nature and ease of installation. They come in various designs and finishes, offering both aesthetic appeal and durability.
Q. What is the branded tile price range?
Ans. Branded tiles are priced higher due to their assured quality and design consistency. Depending on the type and design, prices can range from ₹80 to ₹500 or more per square foot.
Q. Can I use non-branded tiles for high-traffic areas?
Ans. Depending on the material, size and thickness of the non-branded tile, decide where the tile can be placed. It is advisable to check the product details to ensure if the chosen tile can take the load in high-traffic areas.