Hydraulic tile floors are an intersection between functionality, durability and artistry; a unique design statement in a space. Hydraulic tiles, commonly known as cement tiles, are handmade decorative tiles primarily consisting of cement, pigment and sand. Hydraulic tiles originated in the 1850s in Spain and quickly spread to other parts of Europe. Hydraulic tile floors became popular due to their vibrant colours and intricate patterns which lend to the character of a space, hence also becoming a popular design choice by architects in their interior designs.
Versatility
Hydraulic tiles are a highly resilient material hence creating floorings that are suitable for indoor and outdoor spaces. Their versatility also lends to their ability to be used in various designs, whether its public spaces like sidewalks and squares, or private spaces with geometric, vibrant flooring. They can be customised according to colour, size and pattern hence making them unique to the specific vision of a space. They’re commonly made in square shapes but can also be customised therefore we also see hexagonal hydraulic tile floorings.
Sustainability
They are produced with a hydraulic press and are not fired in a kiln, making their manufacturing process more eco-friendly, than the traditional ceramic tile. Sustainability is an essential part of modern design nowadays, hydraulic tiles are a more environmentally conscious choice with their natural materials and minimal energy consumption. Their durability and practicality combined with their aesthetic appeal are making hydraulic tile floorings a more common design element, again. They are relatively easy to maintain and can resist stains and scratches hence a practical choice of flooring for residential as well as commercial.
Manufacturing Process
Hydraulic tiles are almost an artistic expression of the artisan that creates them. The final product is achieved after a series of essential steps that ensure the durability and quality of the tile. An iron frame, most commonly measuring 8”x8”, holds a mould with the desired pattern. That mould is filled with a mixture of marble dust, cement and iron oxide. Pigment shades are according to the design. It is then covered with a dry mixture, followed by a wet mixture, and then hydraulically pressed, forming the final tile, also giving it its name. This step must be done carefully as the tile is not yet cured, making it prone to breakage. To cure, it is submerged in water and then left to dry for several weeks allowing the cement to crystallise. This whole process creates tiles ready for on-site application, with long time durability. It is important to note that through this process there might be minor disparities amongst the thickness of the tiles but it’s not a problem during installation as the mortar is applied to the floor surface and the tile, evening out any disparities. Disparity in tones of colour and minor imperfections add to the uniqueness of the flooring created with these tiles.
Manufacturing Process
Hydraulic tiles are almost an artistic expression of the artisan that creates them. The final product is achieved after a series of essential steps that ensure the durability and quality of the tile. An iron frame, most commonly measuring 8”x8”, holds a mould with the desired pattern. That mould is filled with a mixture of marble dust, cement and iron oxide. Pigment shades are according to the design. It is then covered with a dry mixture, followed by a wet mixture, and then hydraulically pressed, forming the final tile, also giving it its name. This step must be done carefully as the tile is not yet cured, making it prone to breakage. To cure, it is submerged in water and then left to dry for several weeks allowing the cement to crystallise. This whole process creates tiles ready for on-site application, with long time durability. It is important to note that through this process there might be minor disparities amongst the thickness of the tiles but it’s not a problem during installation as the mortar is applied to the floor surface and the tile, evening out any disparities. Disparity in tones of colour and minor imperfections add to the uniqueness of the flooring created with these tiles.
During the 1960’s hydraulic tile floors slowly disappeared as we moved to more minimalistic and cost-effective materials. In recent years, we now see hydraulic tiles making a comeback. They are retained and restored if found in previously constructed buildings. But also a common material choice for architects and designers nowadays to add to their designed spaces. Many companies now offer custom design options as well making the product unique to a designer’s vision. We also see a combination of tile patterns to create floorings that have a mosaic effect. The versatility of hydraulic tile floorings is evident in their design flexibility, cultural adaptability, sustainability, and innovative use in design today.
Hydraulic tile floorings also allow the distinction in spaces, a visual break. For example, indoor and outdoor spaces can be distinguished through flooring. Whether it’s public spaces or private, we see that floorings are a way of being a way of partition. The various patterns and colours in hydraulic tiles allow the creation of hydraulic tile floorings that can be designed in a way that they harmonise in space yet allow a visual break. Colours and patterns are a common design element that, when put together, give play to the desired object. For a designer, hydraulic tile floorings are the result of that play between the two. As architects and designers continue to explore the potential of these tiles, their timeless appeal ensures they remain a favoured choice in a variety of settings. Whether enhancing the charm of a historic home or adding character to a bustling café, hydraulic tile floorings seem to successfully bring character; moulding itself with the language of a space. Hydraulic tile floorings are a testament to the fact that materiality and design elements, in present-day architecture, always reach out back in time, taking elements that seemed to have been forgotten, but almost bringing the essence of an era back into the present day.
Image References:
- https://chocolatecreative.blogspot.com/2013/04/hydraulic-tiles.html
- https://chocolatecreative.blogspot.com/2013/04/hydraulic-tiles.html
- https://www.notechmagazine.com/2014/09/hydraulic-mosaic.html
- https://bongtiles.com/en/products/cencaustic-tile-manufacture-process/
