Our hydraulic and encaustic cement tiles are exclusively hand-made. As part of their old world charm, these tiles are designed to get a weathered, rustic and antique look with due passage of time.
Experience the unique beauty of our traditional cement tiles that capture the essence of local craftsmanship.
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Encaustic / Concrete Tiles FAQs
Encaustic tiles (also referred to as concrete tiles or cement tiles) offer a rich and elegant aesthetic in any area of the home. These traditional tiles have remained a popular choice since the 1850s when they were first introduced as an alternative solution to the handmade ceramic tiles of the time. Since then, these luxurious tiles continue to be hand made by skilled artisans around the world with options available to suit a traditionally styled home as well as more modern or contemporary tile designs.
Where are Encaustic Tiles made?
Encaustic tiles are made in many different parts of the world including Spain, France, Portugal, Northern Africa and throughout the Mediterranean.
How are Encaustic Tiles Made?
Encaustic tiles are made entirely by hand in workshops around the world. The wet cement mixture is combined with vividly coloured pigments and poured into steel moulds. The concrete tile is then passed through a hydraulic press which almost instantly hardens the tile. The finished concrete tiles are then left to dry completely before being shipped to tile stores around the world.
Do Concrete Tiles need to be sealed?
Yes, concrete tiles are porous and will need to be sealed at installation and then every few years or so thereafter. We would also recommend encaustic tiles be cleaned and sealed prior to being laid so as to avoid any potential staining or discolouration from occurring as a result of tile adhesives or grout. For more detailed information on caring for and sealing your encaustic tiles, visit our Resources page.
How to Clean Encaustic Tiles
A simple wipe down with warm soapy water will keep your encaustic tiles clean however you can also incorporate cleaning products that are specific to this material in your daily routine such as Lithofin MN Easy-Care. Abrasive or acidic cleaning products are best avoided on concrete tiles; this includes bleach and vinegar. For more detailed information on cleaning and maintaining your encaustic tiles, visit our Resources page.
Bathroom Tiles: Can Cement Tiles be used in the Bathroom?
Yes, cement tiles can be used in the bathroom. These tiles offer a luxurious and long lasting finish as a bathroom floor tile or as a bathroom wall tile. Encaustic tiles are available in a vast range of options from solid coloured tiles to elegant pattern tiles and more. These classic tiles can be used to add a striking vintage touch to a modern bathroom design scheme or to recreate a traditional look in a period style home, making them a popular choice for the bathroom. It is important to note that encaustic tiles are best avoided as a shower base tile; exposure to pressurised water as well as certain ingredients found in cleansers and shampoos may cause staining, damage or discolouration to their surface.
Kitchen Tiles: Can Encaustic Tiles be used in the Kitchen?
Encaustic tiles offer an incredibly versatile choice as a kitchen tile. These hard wearing tiles can be used as a floor tile in the kitchen as well as a splashback tile, offering endless design possibilities for the home!
Are Encaustic Tiles Hard Wearing?
These tiles have been used in homes and public spaces throughout the last century. These structures remain in use to this day, most with their original encaustic tiles in place serving as testament to the immense strength and integrity of encaustic tiles! With the right care, your concrete tiles will last a lifetime.
