Glazed Vitrified Tiles vs Double Charge: Which One Is Better?

| Catagory : BLOG

Flooring has a huge impact on how your space looks and feels and the choices seem endless. If you’re someone building or rebuilding your home, you’ve probably been looking at options that are durable, stylish, and fit within a reasonable budget. Two types of vitrified floor tiles often come up in these discussions: glazed vitrified tiles vs double charge. While both fall under the vitrified umbrella, each has its own characteristics. 

Let’s break down the differences to help you pick the best choice for your home.
 

Understanding Vitrified Tiles
 

Vitrified Floor Tiles are popular for their sturdiness and ability to resist water. They are made by blending silica and clay and then firing at high temperatures to create dense, non-porous surfaces. Thanks to this manufacturing process, these tiles are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The two common types, glazed and double charge, differ in composition and finishing techniques.

 

What Are Glazed Vitrified Tiles?
 

Glazed vitrified tiles or GVT, as they are commonly known, come with a layer of liquid glass or glaze on top, giving them extra shine and protection. If you love intricate designs, these tiles might be your favourite. The glaze allows for digital printing and a wide range of finishes. For instance, Simpolo Tiles & Bathware’s collection has tiles in glazed varieties that look just as stunning as natural stone. 

The glaze also helps in enhancing stain resistance. So if you often worry about spilling something, glazed tiles are a great pick. These designs are diverse, from simple shades to more decorative patterns. Some even mimic wood or marble textures, offering endless possibilities for your home’s style.

 

Key Features of Glazed Vitrified Tiles
 

They typically come in glossy or matte surfaces, letting you choose the level of reflection or subtlety you want. Glazed surfaces are also easier to clean because stains can’t seep in as quickly. Though these tiles are fairly durable, the glazed top layer can chip if subjected to heavy impact. But with regular household use, that’s rarely an issue. 

What Are Double Charge Vitrified Tiles?

Double charge tiles have two layers of tiles fused together, roughly 3-4 millimetres thick on the top layer. This top layer is pigmented, giving your floor a uniform colour or pattern. Since there’s no extra layer of glaze, the pattern tends to be more resistant to daily foot traffic and mild abrasions. 

Double charge tiles are known for their strength. They’re suitable for high-traffic areas like living rooms, hallways, and even commercial spaces. While they may not boast the same level of design detail as glazed options, they still have attractive finishes. Our collections like Matrix Italian and Prozzo Dove_Prozzo Italian fit well in modern homes aiming for a refined and cohesive look.

 

What Are Some Advantages of Double Charge Tiles? 

In double charge tiles, because the pigments are mixed in the top portion, the pattern retains its look for a long time. Even with prolonged use, it doesn’t fade easily. If you want something robust and cost-effective, double charge tiles might be your best choice. 

They do have some limitations, such as fewer design options compared to glazed tiles, but they excel in durability. Homeowners who prefer low maintenance usually lean toward these tiles.

 

Key Differences Between Glazed Vitrified Tiles and Double Charge Tiles

Comparing Durability 

When it comes to durability, both types can handle residential foot traffic well. Double charge tiles, however, have a slight edge in resisting surface wear. The thicker top layer keeps the design intact even after years of movement. Glazed tiles are durable too, but they might show scratches if something sharp is dragged across the floor frequently. If you have pets that might run around, you might lean toward the double charge side, though many glazed varieties are also pet-friendly.

 

Design and Aesthetics 

Glazed tiles steal the show if you love variety. They can mimic natural stones like marble or granite. Traventino Corn_Traventino Red is an example that replicates the look of rustic stone. Meanwhile, double charge tiles concentrate on more uniform designs, though you can still find stylish options like Perlato White_Perlato Crema or Matrix Galaxy. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you want detailed designs or a simpler, more classic appearance.

 

Cost Factors 

Prices vary widely depending on brand, size, and design complexity. Double charge tiles are slightly less expensive than glazed ones. If you’re considering premium glazed finishes, your expenses might be higher. However, the difference in cost narrows when you look at top-tier double charge selections. If you’re on a strict budget, double charge can offer excellent value. If design variety matters more, you might be willing to spend extra for glazed tiles.

 

Ease of Maintenance 

Both glazed vitrified and double charge tiles are relatively easy to maintain. However, the smooth surface of glazed tiles can make them slightly easier to clean. You can wipe away spills and stains without too much effort, thanks to the protective glaze. Double charge tiles are also easy to maintain, but the lack of a glazed surface means that you may need to use a bit more grease for tougher stains.

 

Installation Considerations 

Installation of both tile types is fairly straightforward for professionals. However, double charge tiles are denser and heavier due to their thicker composition, which might slightly increase the labour involved in handling and installation. In contrast, glazed tiles are a bit lighter, making them somewhat easier to manipulate during the laying process.

 

Comparison of Glazed Vitrified Tiles vs Double Charge Vitrified Tiles

Feature	Glazed Vitrified Tiles	Double Charge Vitrified Tiles
Design Variety	High variety with options for intricate designs and finishes.	Limited design options but offers uniform colour and patterns.
Durability	A durable but top-glazed layer can be susceptible to chipping under heavy impact.	Very high durability, suitable for high-traffic areas due to thicker composition.
Ease of Maintenance	Easy to clean due to glazed surface, resistant to stains.	Easy to maintain, resistant to wear and tear.
Slip Resistance	Can be slippery, especially if glossy; matte finishes offer better slip resistance.	Better slip resistance than glazed tiles due to the absence of a glossy surface.
Installation	Relatively lighter, making them easier to handle and install.	Heavier and denser, making them slightly harder to install.
Cost	Generally more expensive due to the complexity of design and finishes.	Usually less expensive than glazed tiles, offering good value for high durability.
Aesthetic Appeal	High aesthetic appeal with glossy finishes and vibrant designs.	More subdued aesthetic but offers elegance in simplicity.
Eco-Friendliness	Varies by manufacturer, generally moderate due to energy-intensive production processes.	Similar to glazed, with some eco-friendly options depending on the production process.

To help you make the best choice for your home, our Digital Showroom and Virtual Space Creator allow you to visualise how each tile type would look in your actual space. This can be incredibly helpful when comparing the aesthetic differences between glazed vitrified and double charge tiles. The Smart Code Technology further enhances this experience by providing detailed previews and customisations, allowing you to see the tiles in various lighting conditions and settings before making a decision.

 

Which Should You Choose for Your Home?
 

Choosing between glazed vitrified tiles vs double charge tiles largely depends on your specific needs: 

For high-traffic areas where durability is crucial, double charge may be the better option. For spaces where design versatility and aesthetics are priorities, glazed tiles offer more options. Budget considerations also play a role; if cost is a decisive factor, double charge tiles typically offer better value for money.

 

Conclusion
 

In the battle of glazed vitrified tiles vs double charge, the best choice depends on your usage, budget, and style preferences. Both options bring benefits and a few limitations, but they can dramatically enhance the look and function of your home. Whatever your decision, ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and aesthetic desires to create a space that feels uniquely yours.