Quarry Tiles

Traditional quarry tiles are unglazed and made from natural clay, which gives them a distinctive earthy appearance and a naturally dense, hard-wearing surface. Unlike glazed tiles, their colour runs throughout the body of the tile, meaning that chips and wear are far less noticeable over time, making them a particularly honest and durable flooring choice.

Many quarry tiles are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, thanks to their low water absorption and frost-resistant properties, though you should always check the specific product specification before laying them externally. Indoors, they are a classic choice for kitchens, hallways, porches, and utility rooms where a robust, characterful floor is needed.

Yes, because quarry tiles are unglazed and naturally porous, it is strongly recommended that you apply a suitable penetrating tile sealer before grouting and after installation is complete. Sealing protects the surface from staining, makes cleaning easier, and helps preserve the tile’s appearance over the long term, particularly in kitchens or areas exposed to cooking oils and heavy foot traffic.

Quarry tiles are best laid using a flexible, cement-based tile adhesive that is rated for floor use, and the bed should be even and fully supporting the tile given their typically heavy body. For grouting, an unsanded or wide-joint grout in a natural tone tends to complement the rustic aesthetic of quarry tiles, though always check the joint width recommended for the specific tiles you are purchasing.

Routine cleaning of quarry tiles is straightforward – a damp mop with a pH-neutral floor cleaner is all that is needed for day-to-day maintenance, and you should avoid acidic or bleach-based products which can damage the surface and break down the sealer. Re-sealing every one to two years, depending on the level of traffic, will keep the tiles looking their best and maintain their resistance to staining.