Encaustic Cement Tiles vs. Ceramic Tiles
When designing a kitchen, bathroom, or commercial space, choosing the right tile can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many styles and materials available, one question often comes up: What’s the difference between encaustic cement tiles and ceramic tiles? And more importantly, which one is right for your project?
In this guide, we’ll break down the key distinctions between these two popular tile types, focusing on design, durability, applications, and customization options. You’ll also discover how Original Mission Tile can help you elevate any space with timeless, handcrafted beauty.
What Are Cement Tiles?
Cement tiles, also known as encaustic cement tiles, are handmade using a mix of cement, sand, marble powder, and natural pigments. Each tile is individually crafted in a mold and then hydraulically pressed and cured, not fired. The result is a durable, matte-finish tile with rich, long-lasting color.
Key Features:
- Handmade by skilled artisans
- Suitable for both wall tiles and floor tiles
- Extremely durable and ideal for high-traffic areas
- Naturally slip-resistant surface
- Eco-friendly and customizable
Because of the artisan process, no two tiles are exactly alike—giving your project a truly unique and authentic look.
What Are Ceramic Tiles?
Ceramic tiles are factory-made by shaping clay and firing it in a kiln at high temperatures. They are often glazed to achieve a shiny or matte surface and come in a wide variety of mass-produced patterns and colors.
Key Features:
- Affordable and widely available
- Best for low-traffic areas
- Glazed surface (can be slippery when wet)
- Available in many styles and sizes
While ceramic tiles are budget-friendly and easy to install, they often lack the rich texture and visual depth that comes with handmade alternatives.
Cement Tiles vs. Ceramic Tiles: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Cement Tiles | Ceramic Tiles |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Process | Handmade, pressed & cured | Machine-made, kiln-fired |
| Surface Finish | Matte, natural texture | Glazed, smooth or shiny |
| Design Customization | Fully customizable | Limited options |
| Durability | Excellent for floors/walls | Moderate, best for walls |
| Eco-Friendliness | Made from natural pigments | Varies by brand |
| Aesthetic Value | High, artisan appearance | Uniform, often mass-made |
| Best Use Cases | Kitchens, baths, patios | Backsplashes, wall decor |
Cement tiles offer greater versatility, design flexibility, and long-term value—especially in spaces where durability and visual impact matter.
Why Cement Tiles Are Ideal for Accent Walls
If you want to make a lasting impression, few materials rival the look of a cement tile accent wall. Whether you’re designing a cozy bathroom, a luxury hotel, or a minimalist kitchen, cement tiles add texture, depth, and artistry to any space.
Popular Accent Wall Uses:
- Kitchen backsplashes
- Fireplace surrounds
- Entryway or hallway features
- Bathroom vanities or shower walls
Benefits:
- Elevates visual appeal instantly
- Works in modern, farmhouse, or rustic interiors
- Easy to maintain
- Pairs well with wood, brass, and stone
Creative Applications: Wall vs. Floor Tiles
Cement tiles work beautifully on both walls and floors—something ceramic tiles can’t always do due to their fragility and glazing.
Cement Tiles on Floors:
- Kitchen flooring
- Patterned bathroom tiles
- Tile rugs in living rooms
- Commercial entryways and lounges
Cement Tiles on Walls:
- Statement backsplashes
- Floor-to-ceiling patterned walls
- Spa-like bathroom surrounds
Their matte surface makes them safe for wet environments while still providing visual warmth.
Interior Styles That Pair with Cement Tiles
Whether you’re designing a modern house, ranch house, or rustic retreat, cement tiles adapt to a range of aesthetics:
Modern House:
- Use clean geometric pattern tiles
- Combine with terrazzo tile and concrete textures
- Stick to neutral tones with pops of color
Farm House:
- Soft florals and classic checkerboard layouts
- Vintage tile motifs with natural finishes
- Pairs well with reclaimed wood and open shelving
Ranch or Rustic House:
- Warm tones like terracotta tiles and cotto tiles
- Earthy palettes with handcrafted feel
- Brass or metal accents to add polish
Global and Contemporary:
- Bold Moroccan tiles for exotic flair
- Zellige tiles for handmade texture
- Use with contemporary furnishings and clean lines
Custom Design Possibilities with Original Mission Tile
One of the biggest advantages of working with Original Mission Tile is our ability to create fully custom tiles. We specialize in reproducing any design, whether it’s based on an antique sample or a completely new concept.
What You Can Customize:
- Tile size and shape
- Color palette and pigment intensity
- Pattern layout and geometry
- Inlays like brass tiles
We collaborate with architects, interior designers, and contractors to make sure every custom tile fits seamlessly into the overall design plan.
🎨 Start your custom design here
Our Handmade Tile Process
Craftsmanship is at the heart of every tile we make. Here’s how our process works:
- Mold Creation – Your pattern is turned into a custom mold
- Color Layering – Pigments are hand-poured into the mold
- Hydraulic Pressing – Cement is compacted with 2,000 lbs of pressure
- Curing and Drying – Tiles dry naturally for strength and color longevity
Every tile is made with care in Mexico and inspected for quality before shipping.
Why Architects and Designers Choose Cement Tiles
At Original Mission Tile, we partner with professionals who value quality, design, and dependability. Our clients include:
- Residential builders and custom home architects
- Hospitality designers for hotels and restaurants
- Commercial contractors for office and retail spaces
- Tile and stone showrooms across the U.S.
Reasons they choose us:
- Hundreds of decorative tiles in stock
- Short lead times for custom orders
- Artisan craftsmanship
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized service and support
📞 Contact us for trade inquiries
Tips for Choosing the Right Cement Tile Patterns and Colors
Here are a few simple ways to pick tiles you’ll love long-term:
- Start with inspiration photos and Pinterest boards
- Match tile colors with other materials in your space
- Use samples to test under different lighting conditions
- Consider grout color—it can drastically change the look
- Visualize the layout with software or mock-ups
When in doubt, consult with our team for suggestions based on your aesthetic and function needs.
Bathroom and Kitchen Design Ideas
Cement tiles are especially stunning in bathrooms and kitchens—two areas that need both style and performance.
Bathroom Design:
- Accent walls with encaustic cement tiles
- Patterned floors in small guest baths
- Full wet-room designs with bold motifs
Kitchen Design:
- Backsplashes with geometric or Moroccan patterns
- Statement floors under a center island
- Wall tile panels behind open shelving
Tiles can also be used on countertops, range hoods, and even drawer faces for unexpected visual detail.
How to Order from Original Mission Tile
Getting Started Is Simple:
- Browse our in-stock collections online
- Use our custom design portal to create a tile that’s uniquely yours
- Request samples to test in your space
- Get support from our design team for layout and pattern selection
- Place your order and enjoy fast shipping in the U.S.
🔗 Visit www.originalmissiontile.com
Final Thoughts: Artisan Quality Meets Timeless Design
While ceramic tiles may be convenient and cost-effective, they can’t match the artisan appeal, design depth, and performance of cement tiles. With Original Mission Tile, you’re not just buying a product—you’re investing in a story, a craft, and a design that will stand the test of time.
If you’re ready to bring your interior to life with authentic style and unmatched craftsmanship, we’re here to help.
Let your tile do the talking.
