While cement and clay are similar in appearance once installed, there are some important differences to consider when selecting the right tile for your project.

CEMENT

• Matte Finish
• Thicker 5/8ths inch depth (can be customized to 3/8ths inch)
• Porous + must be sealed (Similar to stone)
• May develop a patina over time (See “Sealant and Maintenance Tips for Cement Tiles” below)
• Made by pouring natural pigments, marble powder, and Portland cement into a mold and compressing  
• Pigment depth of 1/4th inch allows for heavy tread that can be lightly sanded/refinished if necessary (appropriate for high-traffic areas)
• Water-cured and not fired (eco-friendly)
• Should be cleaned and maintained with pH-neutral cleaners only
• Exceeds industry standards for slip resistance (CoF)
• With care, can last forever

CLAY

• Satin finish
• Thinner 3/8th inch depth
• Non-porous, no sealant necessary (i.e. ideal for a backsplash)
• Won’t patina
• Made by screen printing non-lead pigments onto the surface of clay-based tile
• Thin surface pigment depth may show light wear after many years of heavy use
• Kiln-fired
• May be washed with standard cleaners
• May be slightly slippery when wet
• Designed to biodegrade after 150 years

Aside from the above, their similarities are notable.  Both tiles are can be used both on the floor and on the wall, and 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 tiles are known for their handmade, natural variation, and character-adding colors and patterns.

CEMENT: Fill out the Request a Tile Estimate form linked here and at the bottom of the product page, or contact us with your desired pattern, colors, shipping address, and contact phone.  We’ll get back to you with the break down, including freight shipping and lead time, for your order.

CLAY: We partner with Clay Imports in Austin, Texas to produce our clay tiles. You can explore our collection and order directly from Clay Imports here.

UK + EUROPE: We offer several of our tile patterns as cement and porcelain though Bert & May in the UK. You can access our overseas offerings here.

CEMENT: Yes!  Our tiles are handmade to order, which means customizing using our 60-color palette is free of charge. Palettes are available for purchase for $12/each. For colors outside of our palette range, we can mix a hue similar to your preferred Pantone color (additional lead time and fees apply). Custom sample tiles are also available upon request ($80 for one, +$45 for each additional with a 2-3 week lead time).

CLAY: Yes!  Our clay tiles are available in colors similar to our cement palettes. Individual color chips are available for purchase for $1/each. Custom sample tiles are also available upon request directly from Clay Imports.

We can create a variety of compliemtary solid color tiles to match our patterened pieces. We offer square, hexagon, octagon, subway, scallop, diamond, arabesque, and both single and double bullnose trim tiles. Contact us for detailed sizing and pricing.

All orders are carefully boxed and tightly packed onto a pallet, and delivered directly to your job site. 

• Tiles are shipped via freight (FOB Laredo, TX) and the final cost will vary depending on weight and destination–usually between $280-450 per order. 
• Due to freight minimums, smaller tile quantities cost a little more per piece to ship as opposed to larger quantities.
• Freight delivery is by appointment, which means someone will need to be present to accept your order, inspect each box, and sign for the pallet.
• Freight delivery is curbside only.
• Please note there is an additional charge to change a delivery address once the product as shipped.
  

• MADE TO ORDER: While lead times can vary, it usually takes 4-6 weeks for our cement tiles, and 10-12 weeks for our clay tiles to be made.  
• Once packaged and shipped, freight service takes about 5-10 business days to deliver to their destination. 
• IN STOCK: Some of our popular cement and clay patterns, such as Cattail and Jardín de Luna, can ship out as soon as 2-3 weeks.  Please check your preferred tile’s product page for general lead times. Since our tiles are traditionally made, it’s advised to plan ahead.
• Please note that while orders are rarely delayed beyond their stated ship window, lead times can change unexpectedly due to unforeseen circumstances (such as transit issues due to weather, Covid-related production delays, etc.). In the rare event that a lead time must be extended, we will alert you as soon as possible.
• In some cases, we are able to rush an order.  Contact us for more information.

SEALING

Cement tiles are naturally porous, much like stone.  To prevent staining and discoloration, it’s important to seal the tile both before and after grouting.  Depending on their location and how much traffic they experience, it’s wise to reseal them every few years (according to the sealant’s instructions).  We recommend Dry-Treat Stain Proof and Miracle Sealant’s 511 series, such as their Porous Plus sealant.

SELECTING YOUR GROUT

When selecting your grout color, be sure to choose something that is similar or lighter than the main background color of your tile. Dark pigments can cloud and stain the surafce of cement tiles if not applied carefully, and should only be used with a dark pattern. Be sure to check our installation guidelines for application pointers to keep your tile looking fresh!

DAILY UPKEEP

After installation, our tiles can be cleaned with a pH-neutral cleaner suitable for natural stone, as well as polished with wax. Always follow the usage and dilution instructions from the manufacturer, and test new products in an inconspicuous area. Our favorite products are Bona Hard Surface Floor Cleaner, and Marius Fabre’s black olive oil soap. Other easy maintenance includes regular sweeping, and the use of floor mats at busy entryways.  Never use bleach or acidic cleaners, as they can strip the sealant and damage the tile’s natural pigments. You can read a little more here, on our blog.

REFINISHING

Since the top pigment layer of cement tile is 1/4th inch deep, their surface can be refinished with a wet sander (using 400+grit), and then resealed to their original condition if necessary. Smaller topical stains can also be sanded down by hand, and individual tiles resealed.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Cement tiles have added luscious pattern and color across the world for nearly 200 years, though they are still a fairly new product within the United States. Their coveted patina, which adds texture and develops over time, is an integral part of how they wear in to fit their environment.  That said, they may not be ideal for clients who are unaccustomed to their varied natural look. Cement tiles are meant to last a lifetime, and with proper care they’ll be a vibrant addition to your space for years to come.

For further care and product recommendations, please see our Cement Tile Installation Guide.

Yes!  Should you wish to enrich the finished look of your cement tile, we recommend a topical sealant such as DryTreat Intensifia.  It’s important to test your enhancing sealant on a sample tile to ensure you like the finished look.

Installing cement tiles is a straight forward process, though some steps will vary depending on where they are being used.  We recommend hiring a professional installer familiar with cement and concrete tiles.

CEMENT

INSTALLATION AND CARE GUIDELINES

TECHNICAL DATA SHEET

CLAY

INSTALLATION AND CARE GUIDELINES