What Are Vitrified Tiles? Types & Everything You Need to Know

Ever wondered what is a ‘vitrified tile' while browsing durable tile options? Vitrified tiles are on the verge of becoming the most popular flooring choice for modern Indian homes and commercial spaces. When selecting flooring or wall tiles, durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance are key factors to consider; vitrified tiles excel in all these aspects.

This guide covers everything you need to know about vitrified tiles, including their types, finishes, advantages, sizes, design recommendations, and more. We’ll also compare vitrified tiles with ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're a homeowner, interior designer, or architect, this guide will equip you with the insights needed to select the perfect vitrified tiles for your project. Let’s get started!

What Are Vitrified Tiles?

Vitrified tiles are made from a refined mix of clay, silica, quartz, and feldspar. They go through a special process called vitrification to form a glass-like, non-porous surface. As a result, vitrified tiles have higher strength and absorb very little water (less than 0.5%), making them highly resistant to stains and moisture. These tiles are available in various designs, finishes, and sizes, mimicking the look of natural stone, wood, or concrete.

The versatility and durability of vitrified tiles make them a popular choice for high-traffic areas and moisture-prone zones in homes, offices, hotels, and outdoor spaces. While many vitrified tiles might all look similar at first glance, there's a lot of variety beneath the surface. Each variant is crafted with unique properties that cater to different functional and aesthetic needs, offering a perfect blend of style and practicality for every space.

Making of Vitrified Tiles

The production of vitrified tiles is a highly technical process that begins with carefully selecting and blending raw materials like clay, quartz, feldspar, and silica, which are finely ground into a powder using a ball mill. This powder is mixed with water to form a slurry, which then undergoes spray drying—a process that removes excess moisture and converts the slurry into fine granules.

These granules are then compressed under high pressure using hydraulic presses, shaping them into what is known as green tiles—an unglazed tile ready for further processing. For glazed vitrified tiles (GVT), a liquid glass layer is applied to the tile’s surface to add color, patterns, and textures, improving both aesthetic appeal and functionality. 

Once the tiles are shaped and glazed, they move to the most crucial step—firing. Inside a kiln, tiles are subjected to extremely high temperatures ranging from 1200°C to 1400°C, initiating the vitrification process. This high heat melts the silica and other parts, filling in the tiny holes and making a dense, glass-like, non-porous surface. This makes vitrified tiles very strong, long-lasting, and resistant to water.

After firing, each tile undergoes strict quality checks for consistency, durability, and design accuracy. Tiles that pass the inspection are polished, packaged, and dispatched for sale. The vitrification process ensures that vitrified tiles have less than 0.5% water absorption, making them highly moisture-resistant and ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications. The precise manufacturing techniques result in a long-lasting, stain-resistant, and aesthetically diverse tile collection, perfect for modern homes and commercial spaces.

Breaking Down Types of Vitrified Tiles

Vitrified tiles come in different types, each with distinct features that enhance durability, aesthetics, and functionality. Whether you’re designing homes, outdoor areas, or commercial spaces, selecting the right vitrified tile ensures optimal performance and long-term value. Here’s a closer look at the types of vitrified tiles available.

• Double Charged Vitrified Tiles: These tiles are manufactured through a dual-layer technology, which provides them with exceptional durability. They are often used in spaces that experience heavy foot traffic, such as commercial buildings or lobbies.
• Full Body Vitrified Tiles: As the name suggests, the entire thickness of these tiles is of a uniform composition. They have the same visual detail and color from top to bottom. These tiles are ideal for outdoor applications because of their robust nature.
• Glazed Vitrified Tiles (GVT): These tiles undergo a process that leaves them with an impressive gloss finish. Available in various designs and patterns, they are a perfect choice for those who want to add an aesthetic touch to their spaces.
• Soluble Salt Vitrified Tiles: Soluble-salt vitrified tiles have a glass-like texture and shine due to the soluble salts used in their production process. They are cost-effective but tend to be less durable compared to other types.
• Polished Glazed Vitrified Tiles: Polished Glazed Vitrified Tiles (PGVT) are a high-gloss version of Glazed Vitrified Tiles (GVT), offering an ultra-smooth, reflective finish. These tiles are created by applying a glaze layer over the tile surface and then polishing it to achieve a mirror-like shine.
• Third Fire Vitrified Tiles:  Third Fire Vitrified Tiles undergo an additional firing process after the initial vitrification, allowing for intricate surface decorations, patterns, and metallic or textured finishes. This technique enhances the visual appeal of the tiles, making them perfect for feature walls, decorative accents, and luxury interiors. 
• Nano Vitrified Tiles: Nano Vitrified Tiles are a refined version of vitrified tiles that undergo a nano-coating process. During manufacturing, a liquid silica-based nano solution is applied, filling micro-pores on the tile surface, making it extra smooth, glossy, and highly stain-resistant. These tiles are known for their self-cleaning properties, as the nano-coating repels dust and dirt.

Transform Your Interiors with Stunning Vitrified Tile Designs

Choosing the right vitrified tile design can dramatically transform any space, adding character, depth, and elegance. From luxurious marble-like finishes to vibrant Moroccan patterns, vitrified tiles offer endless possibilities for your home designs. Here are some of the top trending designs:

• Wooden Tiles: If you love the look of natural wood but want a durable, low-maintenance alternative, wooden tiles are the perfect solution. They beautifully mimic the grains and textures of real wood, offering a cosy and inviting feel for living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, and more. These tiles come in various shades, from oak and walnut to teak and pine, making them versatile for rustic, modern, and Scandinavian interiors.

• Marble Tiles: Marble tiles replicate the elegance of real marble without the high maintenance. They are available in classic whites like Carrara and Statuario or rich beige, grey, and brown shades. These tiles are perfect for luxury interiors, offering a polished, high-end aesthetic that instantly uplifts the ambiance.

• Moroccan Tiles: Moroccan tiles are ideal for those who love intricate patterns and vibrant colors. These tiles feature geometric, floral, and abstract motifs, bringing an artistic touch to bathrooms, kitchen backsplashes, and accent walls. Whether used as a border detail or a full feature wall, Moroccan tiles add a charming, handcrafted look to any space.

• Onyx Tiles: Onyx tiles are known for their high-gloss finish and translucent appeal, creating a sense of depth and luxury. These are available in gold, green, white, and grey tones and are popular among the types of vitrified floor tiles. These are best suited for opulent interiors, statement flooring, or dramatic wall cladding. When paired with strategic lighting, onyx tiles boost the grandeur of any space.

• 3D Tiles: Modern interiors often use 3D tiles to add dimension and creativity to spaces. These tiles feature raised textures and geometric patterns. These tiles are a top seller in various types of vitrified wall tiles to create a bold, eye-catching accent wall. They work well in bathrooms and lounge areas, where an extra layer of depth enhances the ambiance.

• Metallic Tiles: Metallic tiles have a shimmering, metal-like finish perfect for a modern, industrial look. Metallic tiles are available in gold, silver, copper, and steel tones, all of which make a striking visual impact. Metallic tiles are highly durable and stain-resistant, but require proper lighting to get the maximum effect. They are perfect to create luxurious interiors, contemporary spaces, and accent walls. 

• Textured Tiles: Textured tiles have raised patterns and 3D surfaces adding depth and dimension to any space. These vitrified tiles enhance grip and reduce slipperiness, making them ideal for outdoor spaces, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas. They also mimic natural materials such as stone, wood, or concrete.  

Understanding Vitrified Tile Finishes

The finish of a vitrified tile plays a crucial role in its appearance, usability, and longevity. The right finish not only impacts aesthetics but also contributes to better safety, maintenance, and usbility. Listed below are some of the popular vitrified tile finishes and where they work best

• Glossy Tiles: Glossy tiles have a polished surface, which is perfect for creating luxury interiors and modern homes. Their reflective quality helps improve the natural light, which leads to a larger and brighter appearance of a room. However, these should not be used as flooring options in areas with a lot of foot traffic because they become very slippery when wet. 
• Matt Tiles: For a sophisticated yet understated look, matt tiles are an excellent choice. Unlike glossy tiles, they have a soft, muted finish that doesn’t reflect much light, making them ideal for cosy, minimalistic interiors. They also provide better grip, making them a preferred option for kitchens, bathrooms, and balconies where slip resistance is essential. 
• Anti-Skid Tiles: Designed for maximum slip resistance, anti-skid tiles have a textured surface that provides extra grip, reducing the risk of falls in wet or high-traffic areas. These tiles are perfect for bathrooms, poolside areas, terraces, and parking spaces where safety is a priority. 
• Hi-Gloss Tiles: If you love the mirror-like shine of premium interiors, hi-gloss vitrified tiles are the ultimate choice. These tiles offer a more reflective and polished surface than standard glossy tiles, creating a sleek and opulent finish. However, they require regular cleaning to maintain their high-gloss finish.
• Rustic Tiles: Rustic vitrified tiles are perfect for vintage, industrial, and farmhouse-style interiors. Their textured and slightly rough surface mimics natural stone and weathered materials, giving spaces a raw, organic appeal. These tiles are ideal for outdoor patios, accent walls, and themed restaurants, adding a warm and natural feel to any environment.
• Rustic Cement Tiles: Rustic Cement Vitrified Tiles offer a raw, industrial cement look with the durability of vitrified tiles. Their textured matte finish enhances grip, making them ideal for outdoor patios, living rooms, and commercial spaces. With stain resistance and low maintenance, they deliver an authentic cement aesthetic without the upkeep of real concrete.

Advantages of Vitrified Tiles

Vitrified tiles have become a top choice for homeowners, architects, and designers due to their exceptional durability, aesthetic appeal, and easy maintenance. Their advanced manufacturing process gives them several advantages over traditional flooring options like ceramic tiles, marble, or granite. Here’s why vitrified tiles are a smart investment for your space:

• Durability: Vitrified tiles are known for their toughness. These tiles are made using the vitrification process, which results in a very hard and dense material. So, if you're looking for a long-lasting flooring option, vitrified tiles are definitely worth considering.
• Low maintenance: The smooth and dense surface does not retain dust or stains, making the vitrified tiles easy to clean. They require very little upkeep, making them a convenient option for busy households. 
• Resistant to water and other liquids: Unlike many other materials, vitrified tiles are impervious to water and other liquids, thanks to their non-porous nature. This makes them an excellent choice for areas prone to spills, like kitchens and bathrooms.
• Design range: Available in a vast array of colours, designs, and finishes, these tiles can complement every home aesthetic, whether it's modern, traditional, or somewhere in between. It's easy to find a design that matches your home decor, making them a stylish choice for any room.
• Cost-effective: While the initial cost might be more than other options, the long lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements make vitrified tiles a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Simple Cleaning & Maintenance Tips for Vitrified Tiles

With consistent maintenance, vitrified tiles can retain their lustre, smoothness, and durability for a very long time. Following are a few things you can do to keep these tiles looking brand new.

1. Avoid Abrasive Scrubbers & Harsh Chemicals: While vitrified tiles are highly durable, using abrasive scrubbers or harsh acidic cleaners can dull their shine and damage the surface over time. Instead, opt for a soft cloth, microfibre mop, or sponge to clean the tiles without causing scratches. If deeper cleaning is required, use a pH-neutral tile cleaner to maintain the gloss and finish.
2. Tackle Stubborn Stains with Baking Soda & Water: For tough stains caused by oil, tea, coffee, or ink spills, a simple baking soda and water paste can work wonders. Apply the mixture to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently wipe it away with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as they may affect the tile’s polish.
3. Regular Dusting & Sweeping for Long-Lasting Shine: Regular dusting or sweeping is essential to maintain the lustrous appearance of vitrified tiles. Dirt and debris can cause minor scratches over time, so a daily sweep with a soft-bristle broom or vacuum prevents surface wear and maintains their smooth texture.
4. Mop with Mild Soap or Tile Cleaning Agents: Vitrified tiles can be mopped with a mild detergent solution or a tile cleaning agent to remove dirt buildup and enhance their natural shine. Avoid excessive water usage, as pooling can leave water spots or streaks. For best results, mop the tiles with a damp microfibre cloth and allow them to air dry.
5. Use Floor Protectors for Heavy Furniture: Placing protective pads under heavy furniture like sofas, tables, and chairs helps prevent scratches and dents on vitrified tile surfaces. When moving furniture, avoid dragging it directly on the tiles—use furniture sliders or lift it instead to protect the flooring.

Expert Tips for Selecting the Right Vitrified Tiles

Choosing the right vitrified tiles involves more than just selecting a color or pattern; it’s about finding tiles that suit your space, purpose, and lifestyle. With a wide variety of types, sizes, finishes, and textures available, making an informed choice can help ensure that your flooring or wall tiles are not only beautiful but also durable. Keep in mind these key factors when achieving the optimal balance between aesthetics and functionality.

1. Area of Application: Where you want to install the tiles is an equally important consideration. Some vitrified tiles, such as double charged, are sturdy and resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like commercial buildings or hallways in your home. On the other hand, glazed vitrified tiles can add aesthetic appeal to your living or bedrooms.
2. Surface Finish: The finish of the tiles plays a critical role in the overall appeal as well. As a rule of thumb, go for matt-finish tiles for outdoor spaces to prevent slipping, while polished or glossy tiles can be ideal for interior spaces to create a luxe feel.
3. Size and Colour: Consider the size and colour of the tiles too, as they influence the perception of space. There are many vitrified tiles sizes available; choose the ideal one based on your needs. Typically, large-format tiles and lighter colours make a space appear bigger. Similarly, if you want the space to seem cosy and warm, opt for smaller tiles in darker shades.
4. Budget: Also, keep your budget in mind. Soluble salt vitrified tiles are usually more budget-friendly than their double-charged or glazed counterparts. However, always remember: it's not just about the initial cost but also about durability and maintenance.
5. Grout Selection & Joint Placement: While selecting vitrified tiles, don’t overlook grout color and joint placement. Minimal grout lines create a seamless look, especially with large-format tiles, whereas contrasting grout can enhance patterned tiles like Moroccan or geometric designs. Using stain-resistant grout ensures long-lasting cleanliness and aesthetics.
6. Tile Batch & Shade Variation: Always check the batch number when purchasing vitrified tiles to ensure color consistency. Even a slight shade variation between batches can affect the overall look of your flooring or walls. Ordering 5-10% extra tiles from the same batch helps with future replacements and ensures uniformity in large spaces.
7. Slip Resistance & Safety: For areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor pathways, opt for anti-skid vitrified tiles to enhance safety. These tiles have a textured surface that provides better grip, reducing the risk of slipping. Glossy tiles should be avoided in high-moisture areas unless they come with an anti-slip coating.

Discover the Best Vitrified Tiles at MyTyles

At MyTyles, we bring you an exclusive collection of high-quality vitrified tiles, combining durability, aesthetics, and functionality. Whether you prefer elegant marble-inspired slabs, warm wooden textures, or contemporary terrazzo designs, our best-selling vitrified tiles cater to diverse styles and spaces. Explore some of our top choices:

• Vitrified Terrazzo Slab Tile (Matt, 600x1200mm): A stunning terrazzo-inspired tile with a sophisticated matte finish, ideal for both walls and floors.
• Vitrified Cream Floor & Wall Tile (Glossy, 600x1200mm): A classic cream-toned glossy tile that adds brightness and luxury to any space.
• Vitrified Cream Slab Tile (Glossy, 600x1200mm): A versatile and elegant choice for modern homes and commercial interiors.
• Vitrified Slab Tile (Glossy, 600x1200mm): A high-quality tile featuring a seamless, polished finish for a premium look.
• Vitrified Slab Tile (High Glossy, 600x1200mm): Offers a mirror-like shine, enhancing the elegance of floors and walls.
• Vitrified Wooden Tile (Matt, 600x1200mm): Perfect for those who love wood aesthetics with the durability of vitrified tiles.
• Vitrified White Terrazzo Tile (Glossy, 600x1200mm): A contemporary terrazzo tile that blends style and durability beautifully.
• Vitrified Cream Slab Floor & Wall Tile (Glossy, 1200x1800mm): A large-format slab tile offering a spacious and seamless look.
• Vitrified Grey Slab Floor & Wall Tile (Glossy, 1200x1800mm): A sophisticated grey slab tile that complements both minimalist and modern interiors.

Timeless Appeal & Practical Excellence with Vitrified Tiles

Vitrified tiles have become the go-to choice for homeowners, architects, and designers looking for a durable yet stylish tiling solution. Their superior strength, moisture resistance, and stunning designs make them perfect for homes, offices, and outdoor spaces. From marble-inspired elegance to rustic stone textures, vitrified tiles offer limitless design possibilities. Their stain-resistant, low-maintenance surface makes them a hassle-free alternative to traditional flooring, ensuring long-term beauty with minimal effort.

At MyTyles, we bring you a curated collection of high-quality vitrified tiles, designed to suit every aesthetic and functional need. Whether you're creating a luxurious living room, a sleek office space, or a slip-resistant outdoor area, we have the perfect tiles to match your style. Visit MyTyles to explore our vitrified tile collection and upgrade your space with elegance and durability!

FAQs for Vitrified Tiles

Q. What does vitrified tiles mean?

Ans. Vitrified tiles refer to ceramic tiles that undergo a vitrification process, which makes them non-porous, highly durable, and water-resistant. This process results in a glass-like surface that enhances the tile’s strength and stain resistance, making it ideal for both residential and commercial use.

Q. How do you identify vitrified tiles?

Ans. Vitrified tiles can be identified by their low water absorption (<0.5%), making them moisture-resistant. They have a dense, smooth surface in polished or matte finishes and are harder and more scratch-resistant than ceramic tiles. Full-body vitrified tiles have uniform color throughout, while double-charged vitrified tiles feature a distinct dual-layered top surface for added durability.

Q. What are the standard vitrified tile sizes available?

Ans. Vitrified tiles come in various sizes to suit different spaces. 

• Common Vitrified Tile Sizes: 600x600 mm (2x2 ft), 600x1200 mm 
• Large Format Tiles: 800x1600 mm, 1200x1800 mm, 1200x2400 mm, 800x2400 mm

Q. What are the disadvantages of vitrified tiles?

Ans. Despite their numerous benefits, there are some disadvantages of vitrified tiles, such as:

• Slippery Surface: Glossy finishes can be unsafe for wet areas unless anti-skid tiles are used. Usingmatte finishes can help with the slip resistance. 
• Difficult Replacement: Batch variations make matching replacement tiles challenging.
• Less Eco-Friendly: High energy consumption during production impacts sustainability.
• Installation: Requires skilled labour for installation and grouting; can be difficult to use for DIY projects. 

Q. Are vitrified tiles suitable for outdoor use?

Ans. Yes, vitrified tiles are highly suitable for outdoor use, especially full-body and anti-skid vitrified tiles. These tiles are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, heavy foot traffic, and moisture, making them ideal for balconies, patios, driveways, and terraces. Their slip-resistant textures ensure safety even in wet conditions.

Q. How much do vitrified tiles cost in India?

Ans. Vitrified tiles price in India vary based on the type, design, and brand. 

• Basic vitrified tiles: ₹40 – ₹70 per sq. ft.
• Double-charged vitrified tiles: ₹42 – ₹80 per sq. ft.
• Glazed vitrified tiles (GVT): ₹50 – ₹150 per sq. ft.
• Full-body vitrified tiles: ₹75 - ₹180 per sq. ft.
• Premium vitrified tiles: ₹70 - ₹200 per sq. ft.

Imported vitrified tiles or specialised textures may be priced even higher.

Q. Do vitrified tiles scratch easily?

No, vitrified tiles are highly scratch-resistant, making them perfect for high-traffic areas, commercial buildings, and homes with pets or heavy furniture. However, using furniture pads and avoiding dragging heavy objects can help maintain their surface quality.

Q. Are vitrified tiles slippery when wet?

Ans. Glossy vitrified tiles can be slippery when wet, making them unsuitable for areas like bathrooms and outdoor walkways unless an anti-skid or matt-finish tile is used. To improve safety, consider anti-skid vitrified tiles for areas prone to moisture.

Q. How do I choose the right vitrified tile for my home?

Ans. Choosing the right vitrified tile depends on several factors. For high-traffic areas, go for double-charged or full-body vitrified tiles. For aesthetic appeal and decorative walls, opt for glazed vitrified tiles (GVT). Matt-finish tiles are ideal for wet areas, while glossy tiles enhance the brightness of living spaces. Additionally, consider tile size and color—lighter shades and large-format tiles make rooms look spacious.

Q. Where can I buy high-quality vitrified tiles?

Ans. If you’re looking for premium vitrified tiles, MyTyles offers an extensive range of double-charged, full-body, glazed, and polished vitrified tiles in various sizes, finishes, and designs. Explore the best options for your home, office, or commercial space, all at competitive prices.