Ceramic Tile Installation History

Tile setting has not changed much over the ages. Tiles were soaked in water and laid in a mortar bed over a solid substrate of bricks or concrete. Once set, the crevices between tiles would receive a pure cement mortar, sometimes with lamp-black mixed in for color.

Where wood floors were present where a tile finish was desired, the planks were taken up and set flush to the top of the supporting joists. A tar paper was laid to separate the wood from a poured concrete underlayment. Early in the 20th century, newer technology was introduced as substrate, such as plywood, but over time, these substrates deteriorated with moisture, and are no longer recommended by the Tile Council of North America. A small change for modern installations is the introduction of an anti-fracture membrane and expansion joints, which would not be typical of historic installations.

Read Time and the Encaustic Tile Vestibule

Maintenance

Cleaning should always begin with the gentlest means possible. Sweeping, then warm damp mopping could be sufficient. No abrasive or acidic cleaners should be employed. Where any type of chemical cleaner is being considered, it should be tested on a small inconspicuous area, to ensure it does not discolor, or abrade the tile, or leave etching or efflorescence behind. Always thoroughly wet the floor tile first before applying any cleaner, as this will fill pores with clean water, and deleterious chemicals will not be able to penetrate as far.

Stains should always be identified prior to cleaning, to prevent setting the stain. For stubborn stains such as oil, heel scuffs, or asphalt, a mild ammonia cleaner could be used on wetted tiles, and thoroughly rinsed afterwards.

Historic ceramic tiles did not typically receive any treatment once laid, other than wax. Caution should be used in considering any treatment—coating, sealant, or wax—before it is applied, since these will require more maintenance that the ceramic tile alone. They can show wear patterns more, blister or wear off inconsistently, or cloud, obscuring the beauty of the original tiles. Ensure that any coating will not negatively impact the static coefficient of friction for slip resistance required under the Americans with Disabilities Act.