Double Layer vs. Glazed Porcelain Tiles: 7 Key Differences

When it comes to selecting the right tiles for your home, office, or commercial project, the vast array of tile options can be overwhelming. Two commonly compared types are double layer tiles and glazed porcelain tiles. While both are popular in the modern tiling market, they differ in terms of composition, aesthetics, strength, and functionality.

In this blog, we will explain the 7 main differences between double-layer tiles and glazed porcelain tiles. This will help you decide which type is best for your project. Whether you’re a homeowner, interior designer, or contractor, this guide will clarify your decision

What Are Glazed Porcelain Tiles?

Glazed porcelain tiles fall under the category of Glazed Vitrified Tiles (GVT). These tiles are made by putting a liquid glaze on the porcelain body. Then, they are fired at high temperatures. This glazed layer allows for digital printing, enabling limitless design possibilities such as stone, wood, concrete, or abstract patterns.

The glaze protects against stains, chemicals, and moisture. This makes these tiles great for kitchens, bathrooms, walls, and decorative floors. They are available in matte, glossy, satin, rustic, and textured finishes, offering excellent design flexibility for interior designers and architects.

Read More: Best 80×160 cm Porcelain Tiles Manufacturers in India.

What Are Double Layer Tiles?

Double layer tiles, also known as double charge vitrified tiles, are a kind of vitrified tile. They are made by pressing two layers of pigments during production. The top layer, which is typically 3–4 mm thick, is fused into the tile’s surface under extreme pressure. This thicker top surface makes them more durable and wear-resistant than standard tiles.

Double-layer tiles are very durable. This makes them great for busy places like airports, malls, hotels, and factories. However, the manufacturing process limits their design options to simple and elegant patterns.

Don’t forget to check: Best 600x1200MM Vitrified Tiles Manufacturer in Morbi.

Double Layer vs. Glazed Porcelain Tiles 

1. Manufacturing Process

The fundamental difference between double layer tiles and glazed porcelain tiles begins at the manufacturing stage.

Double Layer Tiles:

Double-layer tiles, also called double-charged vitrified tiles, are made by pressing two layers of color during production. This method creates a thick, durable upper layer that can handle heavy foot traffic. These tiles are typically made using a mix of fine clays and minerals, which are fused under high pressure and temperature.

Glazed Porcelain Tiles:

Glazed porcelain tiles, on the other hand, are made by applying a layer of liquid glaze over a porcelain base. This glaze is then fired in a kiln at extremely high temperatures, resulting in a stiff, glossy, or matte surface. The glaze enables high-resolution printing, allowing for a wide variety of patterns, colors, and textures.

2. Design Variety

Double Layer Tiles:

These tiles have limited design options due to their manufacturing process. Since artisans make the surface using colored powders pressed onto the tile body, only two or three colors can combine at a time. You’ll mostly find these tiles in simple, elegant patterns such as marble or granite looks.

Glazed Porcelain Tiles:

This is where glazed porcelain tiles shine. Thanks to digital printing, there are many designs available. These include wood and stone textures, abstract patterns, and 3D effects. You can also choose from glossy, matte, satin, or rustic finishes.

For customized aesthetics and modern visual appeal, glazed porcelain tile is the superior choice.

3. Durability and Strength

Double Layer Tiles:

Double-layer tiles are known for their durability. The double-charged vitrified types have a strong top layer. This layer is about 3 to 4 mm thick and is wear-resistant. This makes them ideal for high-traffic commercial spaces, such as malls, hospitals, and airports. They are less prone to scratches and surface damage.

Glazed Porcelain Tiles:

Glazed porcelain tiles are strong and good for floors and walls. However, they are a bit less durable on the surface because of the glaze. In high-footfall areas, they might show signs of wear over time if not properly maintained.

4. Water and Stain Resistance

Both tile types have low water absorption, making them suitable for use in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor applications.

Double Layer Tiles:

Since the entire tile is vitrified, it offers excellent water resistance. The smooth, polished surface also resists stains, making cleaning easy.

Glazed Porcelain Tiles:

Porcelain is naturally non-porous. The extra glaze improves water and stain resistance. However, too much wear can dull the finish over time if harsh chemicals are used.

Both tiles perform well, but glazed porcelain tile has a slight advantage in stain protection due to its sealed surface.

5. Application and Use Case

Double Layer Tiles:

These tiles are strong, so they are often used in places with a lot of foot traffic, like businesses or factories. Think shopping complexes, railway stations, airports, and educational institutions.

Glazed Porcelain Tiles:

Glazed porcelain tiles are highly versatile. They are used in homes, hotels, luxury showrooms, and small offices because of their stylish look and design options. They are also suitable for walls, which double layer tiles typically are not.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

Double Layer Tiles:

These tiles are relatively easy to maintain. Their uniform surface prevents dirt from settling, and regular sweeping and mopping keep them looking new. However, since the design layer is limited, scratches may affect their appearance more noticeably.

Glazed Porcelain Tiles:

The glazed coating protects the surface, making it highly resistant to dirt, stains, and spills. It’s also easier to clean, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. However, using abrasive cleaners can gradually erode the glaze.

For regular home use, glazed porcelain tiles require less effort to maintain and offer more stain resistance.

7. Cost and Availability

Double Layer Tiles:

Typically, more affordable in the long run due to their durability. While the upfront cost may be slightly higher than some other options, the extended lifespan makes them cost-effective for high-traffic zones.

Glazed Porcelain Tiles:

Available in a wide range of prices, depending on design and finish. Premium patterns or imported tiles may be more expensive, but the variety makes them accessible for all budgets

Reference:

Porcelain tile, as depicted in Wikipedia[1].