We love the excitement of diving into a new renovation project, but when it comes to materials, it’s not just about looks–especially with tile. Pattern and color aside, at Grow House Grow we focus on two types of tile: handmade cement and handmade clay.
While cement and clay are similar in appearance once installed, there are some differences to consider when selecting the right one for your project. Here’s a side-by-side breakdown:
| CEMENT | CLAY |
| Matte Finish | Satin finish |
| 5/8ths inch in depth (available in 3/8ths as a custom order) | 3/8th inch in depth |
| Porous and must be sealed (similar to stone and marble) | Non-porous, no sealant necessary (i.e. ideal for a backsplash) |
| Will wear into a space and develop a patina over time | Won’t patina, less likely to stain |
| Made by pouring natural pigments, marble powder, and Portland cement into a mold and compressing | Made by screen printing non-lead glazes onto the surface of clay |
| Pigment depth of 1/4th inch allows for heavy tread that can be lightly sanded/refinished if necessary (appropriate for high-traffic areas) | Thinner surface pigment depth may show some wear over time with high traffic |
| Water-cured and not fired (which is friendlier in terms of emissions) | Kiln-fired |
| Should be cleaned and maintained with pH-neutral cleaners only (no acids or bleach) | May be washed with standard cleaners (no acids) |
| Exceeds industry standards for slip resistance (CoF) | May be slightly slippery when wet |
| With care, can last forever | Designed to biodegrade after 150 years |
Aside from the above, their similarities are notable. Each can be used on the floor and on the wall, and both are appropriate for residential and commercial projects. While we don’t recommend our tiles in pools or fountains, they can be installed in wet areas with the correct installation practices. Both are also known for their handmade natural variation, and character-adding colors and patterns.
Because the finished look is so similar between the two, the choice often comes down to personal style and maintenance level. Do you pine for the romantic promenades of Barcelona? You’ll love the way cement gently ages. Do you feel refreshed in a modern space that sparkles? Clay will keep like new. Our recommendation is to err on your personal taste, and the unique use and feel of the space you’re tiling.
As always, you can check in with us at info@growhousegrow.com with any questions as you might have as you wade through the decision making process. We’re here to help!