(i) Glazed Ceramic Tiles
They are made from special ceramic clays in two operations. In the first operation the tiles are made and fired at 1,200–1,300ºC; then they are coated with glaze, decorations, etc. Again they are fired in ovens to get opaque glazing. Wear of the glazing is based on the temperature of firing and the thickness of glazing.
These tiles are used for walls or as floor tiles, where there is less usage. Large-size tiles are used for flooring in offices, airports, etc.
(ii) Vitrified Tiles
In this case special ceramic clay is mixed with oxides and burnt at a very high temperature. At a very high temperature, the clay becomes vitrified and we get coloured vitrified tiles. Compared to ordinary glazed tiles wherein the glazing is on the top surface, here the entire tile is made of vitrified clay.
The water absorption capacity is only 0.5%. Many types of fully vitrified tiles are now manufactured in India. These tiles are superior to ordinary ceramic tiles and inferior to marble tiles used for flooring.
These tiles after manufacturing are again ground to get smooth and straight edges so as to lay with very close joints. These tiles are preferred in kitchens compared to ceramic tiles.
(iii) Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are the latest addition to the ceramic tile family. These are prepared from clay, feldspar, quartz and minerals. They are available in different forms as plain, coloured and also with some decorative patterns, but are very brittle in behaviour. These tiles are very expensive.
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