Materials that last

Tiles are regarded as some of the oldest flooring and wall products in existence, they have stood the test of time. The minerals used to make ceramic and porcelain tiles are found just on or below the Earth's surface and the mining process is not as invasive as the mining of other minerals and resources. Clay is an ancient word for sticky and it represents about 20% of the earth's land surface, it allows the tiles to be shaped. Feldspar is an ancient word for field crystal and it represents about 60% of the surface, it is the silicate part of the tile and becomes hard when heated (known as vitrification).

Ceramic and porcelain tile production is now an incredibly high-tech operation with the latest water and heat recovery systems in place. Terrazzo tiles are made using the latest low carbon cement available, now and into the future, and incorporate repurposed production waste and building debris to support material circularity. Many factories generate their own photovoltaic electricity. Some are even developing green-hydrogen ovens.

The range of tiling applications is absolutely huge, they are installed in many building types. They cope with high humidity, can avoid slip issues, and can be formed in various designs and sizes. What is particularly amazing is their ability to withstand large variations in temperature, solar radiation, soiling, knocks and spills. They last much longer than all other man-made finished floor options.

Even though they can last for at least 60 years, we often see refits taking place and tiles sometimes need to be removed. In these instances, they can be repurposed and used as other useful materials.