Are Digital Glazed Vitrified Tiles and standard vitrified tiles the same thing?

No. Standard vitrified tiles have a glazed or polished surface but typically use older printing technology. DGVT tiles use high-resolution inkjet digital printing fused into the glaze layer, which produces sharper, more realistic designs with better surface consistency and design depth. For a broader comparison across the vitrified tile category.

What water absorption rate should I look for in DGVT tiles?

For flooring, look for water absorption at or below 0.08% (GVT grade). This is the standard for genuine vitrified tiles under BIS/IS 15622 specifications. Tiles with higher absorption even if sold as vitrified carry greater risk of staining and moisture-related damage in Indian conditions.

Are DGVT tiles suitable for wet areas like bathrooms and balconies?

Yes, but finish selection matters. For bathrooms, balconies, and utility areas, select a minimum R11 slip resistance rating. Glossy DGVT tiles with an R9 rating are not appropriate for wet floors and create a safety hazard when wet.

Do DGVT tiles fade or change colour over time?

No. The digital glaze is kiln-fired at approximately 1200°C, not painted on. Colour and design remain stable under normal Indian conditions including UV exposure, cleaning chemicals, and regular mopping.

Which DGVT tile size works best for Indian apartments?

600×600 mm suits smaller rooms and standard apartments. 600×1200 mm is the most practical choice for mid-to-large rooms in current residential construction. 800×1600 mm and larger slab formats are for premium spaces and require experienced installation teams due to levelling demands.

How is DGVT different from natural marble or granite?

DGVT offers the visual appearance of marble and stone at 60–70% lower material cost, with no need for polishing, sealing, or the ongoing maintenance that natural stone requires. Stain resistance is also better on a glazed vitrified surface than on porous natural stone in Indian kitchen conditions.

Are DGVT tiles easy to maintain?

Yes. Regular wet mopping with a mild detergent is sufficient. For grout joints in kitchens and wet zones, use [Epoxy Grout] or darker grout shades rather than white cement grout, which stains quickly in those conditions.

What is the PEI rating and why does it matter?

PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating measures surface wear resistance. DGVT tiles typically range from PEI 3 to PEI 5. PEI 3 handles moderate residential traffic; PEI 4–5 suits heavier commercial use. Selecting a PEI 3 tile for a high-footfall retail or commercial space will lead to visible surface wear within a short period.