Your Questions Answered

Variation is to be expected – lighter, darker, less or more intensely hued – each tile will be different. Our encaustic cement tiles are made one by one and even when the same colour mix is used, each piece will vary. It is the natural properties of the cement and marble powder, combined with the earthen nuances of the mineral-based pigments that creates this unique finish. The variegated colour from tile to tile and within each tile provides a chic, rich effect. It is most noticeable on plain colour tiles and where brighter colours are used. This variation is not a fault, it is part of the charm and is one of the most appreciated characteristics of encaustic cement tiles. The beauty of perfect imperfections!

Mixing of your tiles from each box to avoid clusters of shade variation is recommended, and dry laying them prior to installation to ensure you have the right spread is also a good idea.

The colour pigment layer is typically 3-4 mm deep and is not likely to wear off for a very long time!

We have two sizes, a square tile 200 x 200 x 16 mm and a hexagonal tile 230 x 200 x 16 mm.

They can be used pretty much anywhere. Interior spaces include kitchens, entertaining areas, bathrooms, feature entryways, foyers, sunrooms, laundries, mudrooms and even fireplace surrounds and stair risers. They are suitable for exterior spaces too, including verandas and porches, terrace walls, or as a feature wall or façade. They make an ideal choice when connecting indoors to outdoor living.

Yes, encaustic cement tiles can be installed in wet areas, including bathrooms, kitchens and laundries, provided they are sealed appropriately. When installing in wet areas, waterproofing of your substrate is necessary, as is the case for all types of tiles. Care must be taken with cleaning, using only a mild pH neutral cleaner and an occasional scrub with a non abrasive cleaning pad to remove soap build up. Harsh chemicals that you may typically use to clean your bathroom should not be used.

Yes, they make beautiful kitchen, bathroom or laundry splash-backs. Again, they need to be appropriately sealed to prevent staining.

Yes, if you really want to make a statement this is where Cement Tiles come into their element!

Cement Tiles are non-flammable and can be used behind and adjacent to gas stoves and cooktops.

Exterior application is possible. There are however a few considerations. In areas subject to freeze conditions the tiles may experience some micro-cracking if moisture enters the tile and expands. This can be overcome with the correct installation of a moisture barrier between substrate and tile and correct sealing of the tile. Further information should be sought from your experienced installer. Exposure to sun is a further consideration. Under UV conditions the tile colour may fade slightly over time, correct sealant selection and the application of will prevent any significant fading. Verandah and porches are well suited to these tiles as they are not exposed to the above mentioned.

Yes, cement tiles can be installed on floors, walls, splash backs, along bar fronts, stair risers – pretty much anywhere. In a commercial situation, slip resistance is imperative. Our tiles have been NATA accredited slip rated as P3 and therefore suitable for most spaces. Please contact us for further information.

It is not recommended to use Cement Tiles in and around swimming pools where they will come into contact with harsh chemicals. Driveways and garages subject to vehicles are also not appropriate. Over time, irreparable damage to the tiles will occur in both instances.

Cement Tiles have been produced and used traditionally since the 1850’s throughout the Mediterranean, including France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and old European colonies of northern Africa, Latin America and Indochina. Today, these countries continue to be the predominate makers of these tiles. Demand for Cement Tiles has grown in recent times; they are widely sought after in North America, the UK and increasingly in Scandinavia, Netherlands, Germany and other European nations.

No. Encaustic Tiles and Cement Tiles are not the same. Encaustic Tiles are made of two or more colours of clay inlaid to form the pattern and then fired.

The colour from Cement Tiles comes from mineral pigments mixed with marble dust and cement, poured into a mould. Two cement-based layers are then added, and the tile is hydraulically pressed. The tile cures with time. The similarity between the two tile types is that they are both patterned and both unglazed.

Encaustic Cement Tiles are a misnomer, they don’t exist. It is likely that the terminology is used to make Cement Tiles sound a bit fancier. Cement Tiles are remarkable, and an art in themselves…they don’t need a fancy name

Our tiles have a slip resistance rating of P3. NATA accredited test report is available upon request.