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While the common material for making the die for encaustic patterns was initially wood, various metals, plaster of Paris and other materials have been used. Particularly during the 19th century when encaustic tiles were produced in large numbers. We can speculate that encaustic-type, inlaid tiles evolved in Eu rope from early carvings into stone or clay floor coverings. As a result, the visual appearance of mosaic floors which were ev ident from Roman times and before. We know that by the 13th century these tiles were being commonly used on the floors of

abbeys, cathedrals and royal palaces in England and on the con tinent. Further, we know that for a period of roughly 300 years from 1550 to 1850, inlaid tiles had virtually disappeared. We don’t know how or when the word “encaustic” became associ ated with inlaid ceramic tiles. By 1860, the word had evolved to its current usage within the tile industry; a clay tile with an inlaid pattern composed of different clays, burnt in, usually on floors made from either a plastic or dust pressed method.

With the rich and storied history of true encaustic tiles comes materials that are less consistent, more hand-made, and therefore require much more care in the installation process. For true encaustic tiles, a setting material company should be contacted and an installation system be designed specific to the actual encaustic tile product to be used and the specific application it will be used in. If the manufacturer of the encaustic tile provides installation instructions, it is suggested to follow them explicitly and document your efforts. This is not to scare you from installing these beautiful tiles, just a caution that they require due diligence. With the understanding of what a true encaustic tile is, it is important to identify when confronted with an “encaustic tile” if you have simply encountered an “encaustic design” or a true encaustic tile. Porcelain or pressed or extruded ceramic tile with an encaustic design, if ANSI A137.1 compliant, can be installed per ANSI A108 installation standards with ANSI A118 installation materials and should not require alternate installation methods. For “encaustic design” tiles, not ANSI A137.1 compliant, the manufacturer’s directions for installation and locations should be followed in consultation with the setting material company.

Refer to the “Techniques and Tips for a good installation” in the “Handmade Tile Installation” section for helpful information when installing this type of tile.

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Chapter 5 | Material Specific Products and Installation

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