Encaustic Tiles
The term encaustic tile usually refers to the striking colourful patterned tile floors found in Victorian gothic and Edwardian properties. The colour and pattern of the tile is inlaid in different coloured clays and then literally “burnt in” making it integral to the tile, rather than a surface glaze.
The word encaustic derives from the Greek word “enkaustikos”, meaning “burnt in”. The term refers to the technique in which the pigments are mixed with warm wax, resin or turpentine and then bonded to the tile by heat.
Original encaustic tiles are up to 2.5cm thick and can incorporate shades of red/brown with white/yellow patterns inlaid to a depth of 2-3mm. As the pattern is burnt deep into the body of the tile, rather than painted on in a surface glaze, they are highly durable, the pattern never fades, and unlike modern ceramic tiles, if they become chipped or scratched, they just reveal more of the same colour. They are perfect for fire surrounds as the high temperature at which they are made makes them able to bear intense heat.
They are easy to clean using a mild detergent, after which a layer of wax polish or specialist sealant should be applied.
50 mm Squares |
 ENC6A |
 ENC6B |
70 mm Squares |
 ENC15 |
 ENC14A |
100 mm Squares |
 ENC10 |
 ENC11 |
 ENC14B |
 ENC3 |
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