Are you tired of normal ceramic or porcelain tiles? Do you need a change and want to add beauty to your new home? If so, consider cement tiles for a refreshing change. Cement tiles have vibrant, lustrous colours with diverse patterns that are aesthetically pleasing. Let’s explore some interesting facts about cement tiles, including their pros and cons, composition and history and compare them with other flooring types.
What is a Cement Tile?
Cement tiles are colourful, handcrafted tiles that provide high durability. They come both in matte and glossy finishes and last for a long period without losing their shine. Unlike ceramic or porcelain tiles, they are non-baked or non-fired in kilns. Cement tiles are left for drying and hardening naturally for some days. These tiles are produced with the technology of hydraulic press.
History of Cement Tiles
Cement tiles started to appear in the 19th century in Spain. But they gained popularity through an exhibition in France in 1867. They have become a popular material that represents the Victorian period. Moreover, they made a revolution and were considered cheaper than ceramic tiles. Over the decades, it has become a popular flooring material throughout Europe and reached some other parts of the world.
Unlike ceramic tiles, cement tiles don’t use chemicals or colourants; they use natural pigments and are produced through handmade processes, even now. Numerous great architectural buildings, including churches, palaces, museums, and parliament, used cement tiles to add beauty and grandeur in historic times. In India, they were introduced by Europeans who came and started building homes here. Indian cement tiles blend Eastern and Western traditions.
In Tamil Nadu, near Karaikudi, there’s a village called Athangudi. The cement tiles produced in this village became so famous that people began referring to them as ‘Athangudi tiles’. These were inspired by Victorian flooring style. In the early 20th century, when affluent merchants used cement tiles from England, Italy, and France, they found it expensive to replace when damaged. So, the people of this region learned the art of making cement tiles. That’s how it became popular. These tiles incorporate geometric patterns, floral designs, and temple patterns.
To this day, most of the families in this village produce them for their livelihood in cottage industries using regional sand. The Chettinad mansions and places are grand in style with Athangudi tiles that attract many tourists. Homes built here hundreds of years ago also feature these tiles. Nowadays, these tiles are widely exported and used for decorative purposes. Cement tiles are produced on a large scale in other parts of India also due to increased demand.
How are Cement Tiles Made?
- Cement tiles generally have two surfaces, one is the colour surface, which will be visible to us after laying, and the other is the body surface, which gives the tile structure.
- The required ingredients for the colour layer or surface layer are white Portland cement, powdered marble, silica sand, carbonate, and natural pigments derived from earth oxides, carbonates, or plants.
- To produce a single piece of tile, a wooden or steel frame is needed. The frame is flipped, and a pattern mould or stencil is inserted into it. Over this, the pigments combined with other ingredients are added at the surface level, which is around 3mm-5mm in thickness.
- Then, the stencil is taken out, and over the pigmented surface, a layer of grey cement, silica sand, and calcium carbonate is added up to 8-12mm thickness.
- Next, the tile is pressed using a hydraulic press machine or manually using a hand press to ensure even density and thickness. After pressing, the frame is turned over, and the frame is removed.
- Finally, the tiles are left for drying and hardening for some days at the optimal temperature. The usual size of these cement tiles comes in 20cm × 20cm dimensions.
Pros and Cons of Cement Tiles
Pros:
- Timeless and Unique Designs: Cement tiles are handcrafted with customisable patterns. Whether you want traditional designs or a minimalist look for a modern house, you can get those patterns designed. These tiles will never fall out of fashion as they often represent the culture of local regions, incorporating unique patterns. As they are made manually, there will be slight imperfections, making each cement tile unique and beautiful.
- Exceptional Durability: When cement tiles are properly installed, they become hard and tough and can last more than 100 years. They can endure heavy foot traffic and become even more lustrous with years of use.
- Eco-friendly: As cement tiles are non-fired and non-baked, they do not produce carbon dioxide during manufacture. Moreover, they use pigments from naturally available sources. The manufacturing process of these tiles does not require electricity, thus saving energy efficiently and promoting sustainability.
- Effortless Maintenance: It is easy to clean cement tile floors. You just need a bucket of water and coconut oil to keep the surface clean and glossy.
- Versatile Applications: Cement tiles can be utilised in countertops, walls, floors, balconies, and patio areas. They can be used in various decorative spaces in homes.
Cons:
- Porous: Cement tiles quickly absorb liquids if not sealed properly because of their porous nature. This can lead to stains that are difficult to remove.
- High Initial Cost: Cement tiles are more expensive compared to other tile options. However, they can last for a long time.
- Installation Complexity: Cement tiles are fragile and heavy, requiring careful installation. Only experienced laborers familiar with these tiles can handle them properly.
- Maintenance Requirements: Cement tiles lose their shiny appearance if not used for long durations. They need to be sealed every 3-5 years to avoid porosity.
- Sensitive to Acids: Cement tiles are vulnerable to acid damage. Acid spills can degrade the surface. For cleaning, use pH-balanced detergents.
- Not for Wet Areas: Cement tiles are not recommended for wet areas like bathrooms. Due to their porous nature, they require high-quality sealants and maintenance. They are also not suitable for outdoor spaces, as they cannot withstand all weather conditions. Exposure to freeze-thaw conditions can cause cracking.
Installation of Cement Tiles
Installing cement tiles is quite tricky and should be handled with care. The cement tiles always come with natural imperfections, like sharp less edges or slight variations in colours. So, it is normal and it becomes wholesome when installation is done. Moreover, use sealed cement tiles to avoid porosity.
First, level the surface area before installation and make sure it is dry and clean. Pick cement tiles from boxes and soak them in water for some time. Using rulers, find the centre of the room or space and mark the perpendicular line. Start to fix the tiles from that centre and calculate the number of tiles required.
It can be installed by applying pre-mixed adhesive at the back of the cement tile or using thinset mortar. Leave 1/8 inches using tile spacers for grouting and fix the tiles one by one. Tamper them with a rubber mallet to ensure a levelled surface.
For edges near walls, you can cut cement tiles using a wet saw with a diamond blade. After installation is done, don’t walk on the floor and let it cure and dry for 24-36 hours.
Cement Tiles Vs Other Flooring Types
Cement Tiles | They are handmade using white and grey Portland cement, pigments, and sand. These tiles can give unique and textured patterns and add grandeur to floors. |
Porcelain Tiles | These are one of the conventional tiles in use for many years. Clay, quartz, and other ingredients are heated at high temperatures to achieve high durability, sleek and glossy finishes. Porcelain tiles enhance the look of countertops, dining areas, and living rooms. |
Ceramic Tiles | These tiles are similar to porcelain tiles and are made from clay, silica, and chemicals, along with colourants. They are available in various colours and patterns with a glossy surface. These thin tiles can be used in bathrooms and kitchens. |
Marble flooring | They are more expensive, but give a luxurious look. They are natural materials composed of calcium carbonate and modified rock. |
Granite | Granite slabs are natural materials produced under extreme heat and pressure. They give a natural and durable finish and can be used in outdoor spaces also. |
Conclusion
The history of cement tiles shows their versatility and durability. These tiles bring architectural style and beauty to homes. Before purchasing, consider the pros and cons discussed above. If you prefer aesthetics over others and are willing to maintain them regularly, cement tiles are an excellent choice. Ensure they are properly produced and sealed. Ultimately, successful installation is crucial to their performance.
FAQs
Cement tiles are unique, handmade tiles that promise durability. They can add beauty and charm to any space in the home.
Regularly clean cement tiles with mild detergent, water and coconut oil. Reseal them every 2-3 years to protect against stains. Avoid using harsh chemicals as cleaners.
Cement tiles usually come in 8×8 inch sizes, but are also available in 12×12 inch sizes based on requirements.