Tile flooring is a top choice for homeowners and businesses alike because it’s durable, versatile, and stylish. But when it comes to choosing between glazed and unglazed tiles, the decision can feel a little tricky. You may have heard about both options but wonder, what’s the real difference? And, more importantly, which one is right for your space? In this blog, we’ll break down the key advantages of glazed vs. unglazed tile flooring to help you decide.
What is glazed tile flooring?
Glazed tiles have a layer of liquid glass applied to the surface during the firing process. This glass coating gives the tile a shiny or matte finish, depending on your preference. The glaze can add color, patterns, and even texture, making these tiles ideal for decorative spaces.
What is unglazed tile flooring?
Unglazed tiles, on the other hand, do not have this glass coating. Instead, they’re made from natural clay and are fired as-is, resulting in a more earthy and rugged appearance. Think terracotta tiles or a natural stone look. These tiles often have a textured surface and come in more neutral tones.
Durability: which tile lasts longer?
When it comes to durability, both glazed and unglazed tiles hold up well under pressure, but for different reasons:
Glazed tiles: The glass layer on glazed tiles acts as a protective shield against stains, scratches, and moisture. This makes them ideal for places where spills are frequent, like kitchens or bathrooms.
Unglazed tiles: While they lack the extra protection of a glaze, unglazed tiles are incredibly strong and dense. Because they’re solid through and through, any wear or chipping will barely show. They’re a great pick for high-traffic areas like entryways or outdoor spaces.
If I had to pick the toughest option for indoor durability, I’d lean toward glazed tiles because of their stain resistance. But for rugged spaces, unglazed tiles get the edge.
Appearance: shiny vs. natural
The way your tile flooring looks matters. It sets the tone for your room, and the finish can make or break the design.
Glazed tiles: These tiles offer a broader range of colors, patterns, and styles. Want a high-shine marble look? You got it. Do you prefer subtle matte tones? No problem. Glazing allows for decorative designs, making glazed tiles a designer’s dream.
Unglazed tiles: If you love a natural, earthy look, unglazed tiles are your go-to. They often have a matte finish with a rugged or textured surface, creating an organic feel. Think terracotta floors in a Mediterranean-style kitchen or slate tiles in a rustic outdoor patio.
Both are beautiful, but your tile flooring choice depends on your personal style. Do you want bold and polished or raw and understated?
Slip resistance: safety matters
Safety is a big deal, especially in areas prone to water spills or outdoor use. So, how do glazed and unglazed tiles compare?
Glazed tiles: While beautiful, glazed tiles can be slippery when wet, particularly if they have a high-gloss finish. However, some glazed tiles come with anti-slip coatings or a matte surface to improve traction.
Unglazed tiles: Because unglazed tiles often have a more textured surface, they offer better slip resistance right out of the gate. This makes them perfect for outdoor patios, pool decks, or areas with heavy foot traffic.
If safety is a top priority, I recommend unglazed tile flooring for those areas where slips are more likely.
Maintenance: which is easier to clean?
If you don’t want to spend all your time cleaning floors, this is where glazed tiles shine—literally.
Glazed tiles: Thanks to the glass coating, glazed tiles are non-porous. This means they don’t absorb moisture, dirt, or stains, making them super easy to wipe clean. A quick mop or a cloth is usually all it takes to keep them sparkling.
Unglazed tiles: Unglazed tiles are more porous and can absorb water, dirt, and grime. While their rugged appearance hides some of this wear, you’ll need to seal them regularly to protect against stains. Without sealing, cleaning unglazed tiles can become a bit of a chore.
So, if low-maintenance flooring is what you want, glazed tiles are the clear winner.
Cost: is there a price difference?
Price often plays a role in flooring decisions. While both options are affordable, their cost can vary:
Glazed tiles: The glazing process adds to the production cost, which can make glazed tiles slightly more expensive, especially for designer or patterned options.
Unglazed tiles: Because they skip the glazing step, unglazed tiles are often more budget-friendly. However, you may need to factor in the cost of sealing over time, which adds to long-term expenses.
If you’re looking for something decorative, the investment in glazed tiles is worth it. But for rugged, cost-effective flooring, unglazed tiles may save you money.
Where should you use glazed and unglazed tiles?
Still unsure which tile to pick? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Use glazed tiles for:
Kitchens
Bathrooms
Living rooms
Decorative walls or backsplashes
Use unglazed tiles for:
Outdoor patios
High-traffic areas like entryways
Pool decks
Industrial or commercial spaces
Think of it this way: glazed tiles are perfect for decorative spaces and rooms where moisture is common. Unglazed tiles are better suited for rugged areas where traction and durability matter most.
Environmental impact: which tile flooring option is greener?
For eco-conscious homeowners, understanding the environmental footprint of your tiles is important.
Glazed tiles: The glazing process adds an extra step, which can require more energy. However, many modern manufacturers use eco-friendly methods to minimize their impact.
Unglazed tiles: These tiles are more natural since they skip the glazing step, which reduces energy consumption during production. They also last for decades, reducing the need for replacements.
Both options can be sustainable, but unglazed tiles tend to have a slightly smaller environmental footprint.
Call or visit our tile store today
Choosing between glazed and unglazed tile flooring comes down to your priorities. Here’s a quick recap:
Go for glazed tiles if you want easy maintenance, endless design options, and a sleek, polished look. They’re perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and decorative spaces.
Choose unglazed tiles if you need durability, slip resistance, and a more natural finish. They shine in outdoor settings, entryways, and high-traffic areas.
Both tile flooring options have their advantages, and neither is inherently better than the other. It’s all about what works best for your space, your style, and your lifestyle.
If you’re still unsure, call or stop by our tile store today. JP Flooring proudly offers a wide selection of top-quality tile flooring. Sometimes, seeing the difference makes all the difference. Let’s find the flooring that transforms your space today!
