Toning treatment of coloured cement tiles

When it comes to enhancing and protecting colored cement tiles floors, it is essential to rely on an expert who knows how to combine technique and passion. The craftsman “Incredibile Davide has recently completed an extraordinary work in a private house near Rome, demonstrating once again his mastery in the treatment of precious materials.

The customer wanted the bright colors of cement tiles to emerge in all their splendor, while ensuring a protective treatment of cement tiles. Cement tiles, being a calcareous material, requires special attention to avoid damage during cleaning and treatment.

What are the cement tiles

In the varied world of vintage tiles, cement tiles give the rooms an unparalleled antique charm.

Colored cement tiles, also known as concrete tiles or hydraulic tiles, are a traditional decorative element that is experiencing a renaissance in modern interior design. These handmade tiles are produced using colored concrete pressed into molds, creating intricate patterns and designs.

Originally from the nineteenth century in France and Spain, cement has spread rapidly throughout Europe and beyond. Each tile is a unique piece, with slight variations in color and texture that give character and authenticity to the spaces.

Cement tiles are appreciated for its durability, versatility and beauty. They can be used in various environments, from bathrooms to kitchens, from floors to walls. The wide range of colors and patterns available allows you to create endless combinations, adapting to different styles, from rustic to contemporary.

There is indeed a timeless beauty in the soul of these tiles, due to their practical and democratic origins. Even if present in some noble residence of the second half of the 19th century, the cement tiles do not tell the aristocratic period of the majolica or the Venetian floors, not that of the frescoes and tapestries: at the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century, they break into homes with the levelling force of universal suffrage.

With their elegant, geometric or floral patterns, they have made the history of floor coverings at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, sometimes even anticipating the “op art”. Today, in full retro revival, the tiles decorated in colored paste of cement are back stronger than ever and can be an excellent choice of modern and eclectic furniture, especially if combined with more current solutions.

Although they require some maintenance to preserve their beauty over time, colored cement tiles remain a popular choice for those looking for a unique design element rich in history in their living space.

Traditionally used in historic buildings, cement tiles today are used in various contexts. They are particularly appreciated for covering floors and walls in bathrooms, kitchens and entrances, where they add a touch of character and originality. Their resistance makes them also suitable for outdoor areas such as terraces and courtyards.

Cement tiles lend themselves to create attractive geometric patterns or more elaborate designs, allowing you to create real works of art walkable. The wide range of colors and patterns available allows you to adapt them to any style, from rustic to modern.

An interesting aspect is the possibility to mix different cement tiles to obtain unique effects. This approach makes it possible to delimit functional zones within an environment or to create decorative focal points.

Finally, cement tiles are a sustainable choice, being produced with natural materials and craft techniques. Their durability makes them a long-term investment for those looking for beauty and functionality in their living space.

Deep Cleaning and Protective Treatment

Step 1: Cleaning

The initial cleaning of the cement tiles was carried out using SGRISER, a specific product for the removal of grease and dirt from the site. This was combined with the use of a single brush equipped with a red disc, which allowed the material to be thoroughly degreased without damaging it and to remove the dirt on site through the mechanical action of the red disk. It is crucial to avoid descaling detergents, as they could melt the calcareous material of cement tiles.

Step 2: Toning treatment with wet effect of cement tiles

Once the cleaning was completed and the surface dried, the craftsman applied OIL WET diluted with DILUOIL ratio 1:3 (OIL WET in 3 lt of DILUOIL). This hydro-oleophobic primer is ideal for stone materials, giving a wet effect that enhances the colors of cement tiles.

Product to enhance cement tiles color

OIL WET offers many advantages that make it the perfect choice for the protective treatment of cement tiles:

• Exaltation of Colors: Tones the material, greatly enhancing the bright colors.
• Chemical Protection: It forms an extremely resistant protection against everyday chemicals and atmospheric agents, as well as microorganisms such as algae and mold.
• UV Stability: The product is stable to UV rays, ensuring long-lasting protection.
• Vapor Permeability: Saturates the porosity of the material without leaving surface films, maintaining a significant vapor permeability and without peeling.
• Ease of Application: Thanks to its low viscosity and moderate drying speed, it is a product of easy application.

A High Quality Job

The end result is a floor that is not only visually extraordinary, but also protected and durable. The craftsman has once again demonstrated his skill and attention to detail, creating a work that fully meets customer expectations thanks to Marbec products.