Reclaimed grey reduction-fired floor tiles

How do reduction-fired tiles get their blue-grey colour?

The characteristic colour of reduction-fired tiles is created during the firing process. After the clay has been fired at a high temperature, the oxygen supply is deliberately reduced. This creates a chemical process in which oxygen is drawn out of the clay. During this process, known in Dutch as ‘smoren’, the colour changes from red to blue-grey. The result is a subtle, deep tone that can vary slightly per tile, adding to the authentic character of reduction-fired tiles.

The difference between reduction-fired and glazed tiles

Although reduction-fired and glazed tiles can sometimes look similar, the production process is completely different. In reduction-fired tiles, the colour is part of the tile itself because the clay reacts to the lack of oxygen during firing. The blue-grey tone is therefore permanent and does not wear away. With glazed tiles, a glaze layer is added after firing to create shine and colour. This layer can be made in any colour. The disadvantage is that the glaze sits on the surface and may wear over time. Reduction-fired tiles have a more natural, matt and lived-in appearance, while glazed tiles are smoother and glossier.

Laying a beautiful floor with reduction-fired tiles

A floor of reduction-fired tiles gives an interior a calm and balanced character. It fits perfectly in modern homes where a clean look matters. The tiles measure 20 x 20 or 21 x 21 cm, making them suitable for spaces such as:

• Kitchens
• Hallways
• Entrances

Maintaining grey reduction-fired tiles

Maintaining reduction-fired tiles is very easy. This applies not only to reduction-fired tiles, but to every type of floor tile.

1. First remove loose dirt with a vacuum cleaner or broom.
2. Then fill a bucket with warm water and a mild cleaning product.
3. Dip the mop in the bucket.
4. Mop across the tiles.

Buying beautiful antique grey reduction-fired floor tiles

At Van Dillen Antieke Bouwmaterialen you will find a carefully selected range of old reduction-fired tiles of excellent quality. We recover the tiles from historic buildings that are being demolished, such as old farmhouses and churches. Before demolition, each tile is carefully checked, cleaned, sorted and prepared for delivery. This gives you a sustainable floor that lasts for years while bringing a piece of history into your home. We arrange careful transport throughout the Netherlands and Belgium. View the reduction-fired tile range and discover how these special tiles can create a stylish, authentic floor that connects past and present.