What is a split tile?
A split tile is a ceramic tile that is extruded and fired as a double tile and then split into two separate tiles. The name therefore refers to the way it is made (Dutch splijttegel, German Spaltplatte). You can recognise a split tile by the ribs on its back: the remains of the link between the two halves.
Manufacture
Plastic clay is forced under high pressure through a die (extrusion) whose cross-section shows two tiles back to back, joined by a layer of small webs and channels. Wires cut the column to length. The double tiles are fired in a tunnel kiln at around 1200 °C and then split. In the European tile standard EN 14411, extruded tiles fall into group A.
Features
- Low water absorption and a dense surface, which is why many split tiles are frost-resistant.
- Hard-wearing and often slip-resistant, glazed or unglazed, with a natural look in earthy colours.
- Many special pieces are possible, such as stair treads, corner pieces and skirtings.
- Slightly less dimensionally accurate. Because the clay is pressed wet, it shrinks more during drying and firing than a dry-pressed tile.
Application
- Wider joints. Because of the dimensional tolerances, allow a slightly wider joint than for dry-pressed tiles.
- Outdoors in a mortar bed or to a system. On terraces, balconies and steps, provide a fall and full bonding without voids where frost water can collect.
- Check frost resistance. Not every split tile is suitable for outdoor use; ask for the product data.
- Order special pieces at the same time. Treads and corners from the same production run avoid colour differences.
Common mistake: laying split tiles butt-jointed or with joints that are too narrow. Because of the dimensional variation, the joint pattern drifts and edges can chip.
Related terms
- Quarry tile
- Terracotta floor tile
- Split stone
- Extrusion
- Clay
- Brick
- Facade cladding
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