FAQs
SALES TERMS & GENERAL INFORMATION
Cement Tiles History
They are sometimes mistakenly called encaustic tile, which refers to kiln-fired clay tile. Cement tiles are not fired; there is no glaze layer on the surface of the tile. They derive their durability from the combination of finely dehydrated ground Portland cement layer and a more coarse layer of sand and cement. The pigment layer is hydraulically pressed into the surface and becomes a part of the tile.
Cement tile appeared in the 1850s in the south of France. They were exhibited in the Paris International Exposition of 1867 by the French company Garret & Rivet.
In the United States, several sources say the first tiles were made near the country’s first Portland cement plant. Around the turn of the 20th century, the tiles were very popular and were considered a high-end floor covering. It was used in thousands of landmark public buildings and palaces. Their popularity began to wane in the 1920s, but spread again in the 40s primarily in California and Florida.
Cement tiles are made by hand, one at a time, using mineral pigments, cement, a mold, and an hydraulic press. The metal mold is handmade following specific design drawings. The pigment composition is a mixture of high quality white Portland cement, marble powder, fine sand, and natural mineral colour pigments. Cement tiles being handmade are expected to have slight imperfections, which give them character and depth.
There are numerous cement tile manufacturers worldwide. The primary difference between manufacturers is the hydraulic method used. Small companies employ a hand-operated hydraulic press; the quality of the tiles varies due to inconsistent pressure. Larger manufacturers use electric-powered hydraulic presses that produce a consistently higher quality product. The higher pressure (1,500 PSI) permits a thicker pigment layer to be embedded into the cement layer. The pigment layer is usually 3–4 mm thick.
Another difference is the quality of the pigments used. High quality producers use mineral-based pigments only. Non-mineral based pigments fade with age.
Description & Quality
Due to these qualities, there will be a variance in every tile. All Cement Tiles may suffer color tone changes over time and with regular maintenance. To ensure the best color match, place orders for all quantities to complete the installation, including extras for damage, cuts and waste. We highly recommend adding a 15% to all measurements.
Mixing tiles from different boxes during setting is highly recommended to produce a beautiful naturally rich appearance. Details can be seen in a close-up, but will be unnoticed when installation is completed.
Sample tiles are representative of colors and may vary from actual order.
Installation of our products means acceptance and absolutely no returns and/or exchange will be accepted. Please inspect product before your contractor installs it.
Samples
We offer all customers the option to order any of the tile patterns through our website. All sample orders are limited to ONE per tile design, and customers may order a sample of as many different tile designs as desired. We make every effort to ship all samples within the same shipment, but some samples may ship separately if specific samples are out of stock at the time the order is placed.
In-Stock Sample Tiles | Free Sample tiles with Shipping:
1 tile: $18.00 (add $9.00 per extra tile, example 2 tiles $18.00 + $9.00, Total $27.00)
Limit One Tile Per Pattern | Pricing Applies to all our tiles sizes | Pricing applies to 48 Contiguous US States
Custom Sample tiles | 1 tile: $18.00 + Shipping (International air rates apply, ask for an estimate)
For questions regarding samples please Contact us
Ordering & Shipping
All orders are shipped from our storage supplier warehouse in Laredo, Texas 78045 to all US territory, if you live out the US please email or call us for a special shipping quote. Customer is responsible for will-call pick up at that location unless otherwise specified. We can help to get the estimated shipping cost to your place; weight and distance will determine cost. You will be billed for the freight cost and any cost that exceed the estimate quotation. All orders are shipped from warehouse within 5 business days, typical delivery time is 2-3 weeks.
We cannot accept liability for damage during shipment. We do not accept responsibility for lost working time in the unlikely event of a delivery being delayed or for being incorrect. Studio Cement Tile is not responsible for quantities ordered; we highly recommend verifying quantities with your contractor before ordering. All material must be ordered in Full Box quantities. We highly recommend adding a 15% to all measurements.
After receiving your order confirmation, a copy of the invoice will be sent to your e-mail address provided in order to verify the accuracy and details of the order, quantities, colors and sizes. This is your opportunity to make any changes before we process your order.
All regular tile orders will deliver using LTL carrier service. The freight company will contact you to arrange the delivery appointment. The freight company is your resource if you have special requests such as inside delivery, lift gate, pallet jack, or if you need to make any change of your delivery appointment.
During delivery, all customers are responsible for inspecting the shipment for shortages or damages against the packing slip and noting those damages with the driver on the Bill of Lading. Any issues with the delivery must be photographed and noted with the delivery driver on the BOL in order to initiate a claim. The claims agents for the shipping company will request photos and written documentation to process the claim. Please take the time to ensure that this is done effectively during delivery in order to avoid any costs associated with replacement material for your order. Ensure that you have someone on-site to accept your delivery as any missed deliveries or delivery refusals will result in storage and redelivery fees to the trucking company. Contact us within 48 hours after your delivery and we will work to replace any items damaged in transit as quickly as possible.
Returns
Any claims regarding color, design, quality or quantity must be resolved prior to installation. Any returns require written authorization. Returns must be made in the original packaging and credited upon inspection in our warehouse. Freight is responsibility of customer. No claims will be accepted for any reason after installation.
Damage Merchandise
Customer is responsible for the inspection of all material when received. Pictures will be required to assist in any claim for damage material. Please note any damage on the freight company Bill of Lading at the time of delivery. No claim for damage can be accepted if not noted at the time of delivery and notification must be sent to us within the following 48 hours.
Please do not refuse the shipment, if you find damage, missing material or incorrect quantities accept the shipment and note the issues in detail on the receipt with the driver. If damage is properly noted, we can begin the process of getting replacement material to you.
We must be notified immediately for any material shortage.
Applications
Cement tiles can be used either in-doors or outdoors.
For in-doors installations, it is recommended to apply a penetrating sealer or/and polish the tiles to protect them from water, grease and other stains.
For outdoors installations, it is highly important to protect your tiles with a penetrating sealer containing UV protection and polish the tiles with wax in order to avoid direct sunlight. This will help the tile to preserve its color and natural patina.
For installations in pools or water places, use a penetrating sealer to make your tile and grout lines are waterproof to avoid any filtration and additionally apply an acrylic concrete surface sealer on top.
Cement tiles may be designed to accommodate any architectural style such as Spanish colonial, Santa Fe, Moorish, Minimalist, Contemporary, etc. to name a few.
Installation & Sealing
Proper installation and protection of cement tile is key. Please ensure that tile is laid by a licensed tile installer. Studio Cement Tiles is not responsible for any issues that arise due to improper installation or care. DO NOT LET THE BOXES GET WET! Moisture can seep into the tiles, which may result in staining or efflorescence in which a residual powdery limestone layer is deposited on the surface of the tile.
We do not recommend installing our tiles outdoors in places that experience frost/freeze in winter. Care must also be taken in areas that may get wet as the surface may cause a slip hazard. Cement tiles are unable to withstand the weight of vehicles and therefore should never be used in driveways.
Wall tiles can be affixed to plaster, drywall, cement block, and cement backer board. The installation surface should be flat and dry with any loose paint removed and cracked surfaces patched.
Care & Maintenance
Cleaning recommendations
How to Clean Cement Tiles: installation guidelines
Generally, all stains are on the surface of the Tile that was previously sealed to avoid stains that could penetrate the color layer. If the Tiles were properly sealed, cleaning them will not present any difficulty.
• Clean up the spill as soon as possible with a clean cloth or paper towel to prevent the stain from setting.
• Mix a solution of warm water and mild soap or detergent, then apply it to the stained area with a soft-bristled brush. Scrub gently and avoid using abrasive materials that can damage the surface of the tiles.
• For stubborn stains, you can try using a mixture of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it with a brush.
• If the stain is still visible, you can try using a commercial stain remover that is safe for use on cement tiles. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test the product on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the tiles.
• For particularly tough stains, you may need to sand the tiles, we recommend a fine 600 sand paper, to remove the stains that could penetrate the tile color layer and reapply the sealer to avoid future stains, this might be caused for the lack of sealer, so be sure to apply at least 2 coasts of sealer.
Remember, prevention is the best cure when it comes to keeping any tiles clean. Regularly sweep and mop your floors, and promptly clean up any spills or stains to avoid any stains to keep your tiles as beautiful as they come from the beginning!
