In an era of mass-produced, digital-printed interiors, Original Cement Encaustic Tiles stand out as a soulful alternative. However, we have to be honest, this is a “love-hate” relationship.
At GNG Tiles Malaysia, we believe your floor should tell a story. If you want a surface that remains “perfect” and frozen in time, this material isn’t for you. But if you value a floor that breathes, evolves and carries hundreds of years of history, you are ready to embrace the natural patina.
The Forefather of Modern Art Deco
It is often forgotten that the cement encaustic tile is the forefather of the modern Art Deco tile we see today. Long before the 1920s Art Deco movement took the world by storm with its bold symmetries and sharp lines, cement tiles were already using hydraulic technology to create those exact same geometric looks.
When you lay these tiles today, you aren’t just following a trend you are installing the original blueprint of modern decorative art.
A Craft Unchanged for Over 150 Years
While most modern tiles are fired in kilns at high temperatures, the original cement tile process has remained virtually unchanged since the 1850s.
3-4mm Depth: A Lifetime of Renewability
Unlike ceramic tiles, our tiles are not painted. The pattern is created by pouring a mixture of marble dust, cement and natural pigments into a handcrafted metal mol
- Deep Pigment Fusion: Our “color layer” is 3-4mm thick. Original Cement Encaustic pigments are fused deep into the tile body.
- The 20-Year Refresh: Because the color goes so deep, these tiles are renewable. If your floor starts to look tired after 20 years of heavy traffic, you can professionally polish the surface to reveal a fresh, vibrant layer of color, just like refinishing a solid hardwood floor.
- Hydraulic Pressure: We use massive pressure (up to 2,000 pounds) to fuse the layers into a solid, stone-like block using the same manual techniques found in the heritage homes of Malaya a century ago.
The “Diamond in the Rust”: Beauty Of the Patina
Some might see the aging of cement as simple wear and tear, but to the connoisseur, this rustic look is like a diamond in the rust. It is a hidden brilliance that only reveals itself to those who appreciate authentic character.
You can see this appreciation in the five-star boutique hotels of Penang and the restored heritage shophouses of Melaka. The “lived-in” feel isn’t a defect, it is the soul of the building.
Why Choose “Original” Over Mass-Market Alternatives?
In the Malaysian market, you will find many pattern tiles from competitors. However, there is a distinct difference when you choose the Original Cement Encaustic from GNG Tiles:
- Authentic Longevity: They don’t just “look” old; they are built to become old without losing their integrity.
- The Beauty of Imperfection: Every tile is handmade. Slight variations in color are the fingerprint of the artisan who made them.
- Investment Value: A floor that can be polished and renewed after two decades is an investment, not just a purchase.
📂 Browse the 2023 Collection: Sizes & Rates
How to Live with Your Heritage Floor
To ensure your floor ages gracefully, follow these expert steps:
- pH-Neutral Only: Treat your tiles like a piece of fine stone. Never use harsh acids or bleach, which can damage the natural pigments.
- Embrace the Evolution: Understand that the “patina” is what makes your home unique. Over time, the tiles will develop a soft, velvety sheen that only comes with age.
Experience the Legacy
At GNG Tiles Malaysia, we provide a connection to the past. Whether you are restoring a heritage property or building a modern home with a vintage Art Deco heart, our collection offers the authenticity you deserve.
Visit our showroom in Shah Alam to touch a piece of history.
Original Cement Encaustic Tiles—only at GNG Tiles Malaysia.
