Cement Tile
Cement tiles have a rich history dating back hundreds of years. They are still very similar to what they looked like in the past, making them a unique blend of old-world style and modern appeal. Perfect for adding pops of color and classic patterns, encaustic cement tiles are also easy to coordinate with neutral colors, so you can create anything from a small framed accent up to an entire floor.
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Why We Love Cement Tiles
The Tile Shop is proud to offer a beautiful selection of cement tile. Some cement tiles on the market only have a surface layer of pigmented cement over a cement base, but at The Tile Shop, all of our cement tiles—from patterned designs and solid colors—are encaustic, meaning that the pigmented cement makes up the entire thickness of the tile. This means that surface wear—and even chips—won't affect the design of encaustic cement tiles.
Our range of cement tiles come in a variety of shapes, including squares, hexagons and arabesques, and a variety of coordinating patterns and solid colors that can be mixed and matched for a truly custom space.
Where to Use Cement Tiles
Entryway Floors
Some of all-time our favorite entryways and mudrooms use cement floor tile. We love how a patterned encaustic cement tile turns even the smallest transitional space into a true design moment. Best of all, since the design goes all the way through the tile, it offers incredible longevity for areas with heavy foot traffic.
Bathrooms
Cement tile bathroom floors, walls or both will make a stunning addition to any full or half bath. (The only space in a bathroom we would discourage cement tile is a shower plan/floor, because of how porous the material is.) Cement bathroom tiles may require some extra sealing for best results, so be sure to ask your tile pro for their recommendations for your specific space.
Kitchens
From floors to backsplashes, cement tiles are right at home in the kitchen. As a flooring material, cement tiles ground the space with a decorative element, and provide visual distinction in open-concept floor plans. And a cement tile backsplash behind the stove or above a counter is a true thing of beauty; installing cement tiles closer to eye level means you’ll be able to appreciate their artistry and craftsmanship even more.
Fireplace and Hearth
Turn your home’s fireplace into a beautiful decorative focal point by adding cement tile to the front face or hearth area.
Note: Cement tiles are not recommended for outdoor applications or direct sunlight. If you want the look of cement in an outdoor space, we recommend looking at porcelain tile instead. The Tile Shop offers a selection of porcelain tiles that are inspired by the patterns of encaustic cement tiles.
How Are Encaustic Cement Tiles Made?
Each cement tile is made by hand in steel molds using high-pressure hydraulic presses and brass dividers to create the pattern. Unlike porcelain and ceramic tile, no kilns or heat sources are used to create this unique product, which is made up of portland cement, sand, water and powder colored with water-soluble pigments.
Because they are made individually, variation in thickness, size and color is expected. Irregular edges/corners and blurring of pattern or contours are normal. Unique character is built-in by design and does not compromise the performance of the tile.
How to Maintain Cement Tiles
Clean using mild, non-detergent soap. Never use acidic/caustic cleaners on cement tile. Reseal periodically, more frequently where heavy foot-traffic is present. A natural patina will develop over time.
Shop Cement Tiles in Person
There’s just no substitute for seeing our cement tiles in real life, and we offer two ways to do just that. Shop in person at one of our beautiful showrooms, or order samples of your favorite tiles for just $3 each, including shipping.