What Are Cement Tiles? A Complete Guide

What Are Cement Tiles? A Complete Guide for Designers and Homeowners

Have you ever seen a floor so stunning it stopped you in your tracks? Or a backsplash so unique it felt like a piece of art? That’s the power of cement tiles—a design favorite that blends beauty, history, and function.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn what cement tiles are, how they’re made, where to use them, and why they’ve become the go-to choice for top designers, architects, and style-savvy homeowners. Whether you’re planning a modern kitchen, restoring a vintage home, or just gathering interior design inspiration, this is the perfect place to start.

---

What Are Cement Tiles?

Cement tiles (also called encaustic cement tiles) are handcrafted decorative tiles made from a mixture of cement, sand, marble powder, and natural pigments. Unlike ceramic tiles, they aren’t fired in a kiln—they’re hydraulically pressed and cured in water, giving them an earthy, matte finish and rich, long-lasting colors.

Key Characteristics:

• Handmade by skilled artisans

• Durable and thick (often ~5/8”)

• Pigmented pattern layer (~1/8”) so colors don’t fade

• Eco-friendly production process (low energy, no glaze)

---

The Design Benefits of Cement Tiles

Cement tiles offer a rare mix of functionality and visual impact. Here’s why they’re a dream material for designers and homeowners:

1. Endless Design Possibilities

From vintage to modern, Moroccan to minimal, cement tiles come in an enormous variety of patterns, colors, and formats. You can even create your own custom tile design with Studio Cement Tile.

2. Statement-Making Style

Cement tiles turn everyday surfaces—floors, walls, stair risers—into showstoppers. They’re bold, timeless, and unforgettable.

3. Long-Lasting Beauty

Thanks to their thick color layer and natural composition, cement tiles hold up beautifully under foot traffic, making them ideal for both residential and commercial use.

4. Handmade Authenticity

Each tile is a little different, with subtle variations that add depth and artisanal charm to any space.

---

Where Can Cement Tiles Be Used?

Cement tiles are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re designing a cozy home or a boutique hotel, they fit almost anywhere.

✅ Indoor Applications

• Bathroom Tiles: Shower walls, floors, vanity backsplashes

• Kitchen Tiles: Backsplashes, floors, islands

• Living Room Tiles: Feature walls, fireplace surrounds, patterned rugs

• Entryways and Hallways: First impressions that last

• Accent Walls: In bedrooms, offices, and staircases

✅ Outdoor Applications

• Patios and Courtyards: Weather-resistant and non-slip

• Outdoor Kitchens: Adds color and charm to BBQ areas

• Pool Surrounds: Slip-resistant and naturally cooling

---

Cement Tile Styles by Home Type

Whatever your aesthetic, there’s a cement tile style to match it.

🏡 Farmhouse Style

• Soft grays, dusty blues, hand-drawn florals

• Pair with shiplap, wood beams, and antique brass

🐄 Ranch House

• Warm neutrals, vintage stars, and earthy tones

• Mix with wood textures and leather furnishings

🧱 Rustic House

• Terracotta tiles, geometric tribal patterns

• Great with iron accents, stone, and wood

🏙️ Modern House

• Minimalist black-and-white patterns, bold geometrics

• Combine with concrete, marble, and glass finishes

🪟 Cozy House

• Small-scale florals, warm tones, soft edges

• Use in reading nooks, powder rooms, and fireplaces

---

Cement Tiles vs. Other Tile Types

Let’s compare cement tiles to some common alternatives:

---

The Handmade Process Behind Cement Tiles

Each cement tile is crafted by hand using a metal mold and pigmented cement mixtures.

Steps:

1. Design the mold to match the desired pattern

2. Pour colored pigment into sections of the mold

3. Add base layers of cement and sand

4. Hydraulically press the tile under 2,000 lbs of pressure

5. Cure in water for 24 hours

6. Air dry for several days before packaging

This technique preserves color vibrancy and produces stunning depth—something no printed tile can replicate.

---

Expert Tips: Choosing Color, Pattern, and Layout

🎨 Color

• Use neutral tones in large spaces to maintain balance

• Add a pop of color to bathrooms, kitchens, and nooks

🧩 Pattern

• Large-scale patterns = bold impact

• Small patterns = timeless and cozy

📐 Layout

• Try border tiles to frame a design

• Use grout color strategically (contrast for definition, match for seamlessness)

---

Cement Tiles by Room: Design Inspiration

✨ Bathroom Design Ideas

• Use encaustic cement tiles behind the vanity mirror for a vintage flair

• Create a feature shower wall with Moroccan tiles

• Lay patterned floor tiles to define the room

🍽️ Kitchen Design Ideas

• Use black and white geometrics for a modern backsplash

• Install colorful artisan tiles under a farmhouse sink

• Frame a tile rug under the dining area or island

🪑 Living Room Design Ideas

• Add a cement tile feature wall around the fireplace

• Use warm-toned tiles to create a cozy vintage look

• Tile a reading nook or stair riser

🌿 Patio Design Ideas

• Use Moroccan or terracotta tiles for a Spanish courtyard feel

• Cement tiles with blue tones are ideal for poolside areas

• Try star and cross tiles for bold outdoor floors

---

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Cement Tiles

Q: Do cement tiles need to be sealed?
Yes. Sealing is essential to prevent staining and water absorption.

Q: Are cement tiles suitable for bathrooms?
Absolutely—when sealed properly, they’re water-resistant and stylish.

Q: How long do cement tiles last?
With proper care, they can last 50+ years.

Q: Are cement tiles slippery?
No—they offer natural grip, making them safe for wet areas like patios and showers.

Q: Can I use cement tiles outdoors?
Yes! They’re ideal for patios, pool decks, and outdoor kitchens.

Q: Are cement tiles more expensive than ceramic?
Yes—but they’re far more durable, unique, and artisanal.

Q: Do colors fade over time?
No—the pigment layer is thick and built to last with proper care.

Q: Can I order a custom design?
Yes! Studio Cement Tile offers custom shapes, colors, and patterns.

---

How to Order from Studio Cement Tile

Ordering is easy, whether you need a few boxes or a full pallet:

1. Browse In-Stock Designs: View tiles now

2. Order Samples: Try them in your space first

3. Contact Us for Custom Projects: We’ll help you design your own pattern

4. Place Your Order Online: Fast shipping across the US

Ready to turn your space into a work of art?
👉 Explore in-stock and custom cement tiles at Studio Cement Tile — and start your design journey today.