Encaustic Tile Makes a Comeback
Don’t be afraid to add some pattern. Basic cabinets get a boost from encaustic tiles. Photo courtesy: 1910Foursquare
While popular following their development in the mid-1800s, encaustic cement tiles fell out of favor in the mid 1930s. Today they are on the design radar again and finding renewed popularity.
Producing encaustic tile uses less energy than firing ceramic tiles does, and the materials are natural. The design layer is typically created by pouring a mixture of Portland cement, marble dust, and natural pigments into a dye that resembles a cookie cutter, which has been placed inside a square mold. The base layer is solid gray concrete and provides stability. Before the tiles cure, a hydraulic press is used to sandwich the layers together.
Pluses for using encaustic tile include lovely patterns, inspiring colors, and greater longevity. The design layer is typically ¼” thick, allowing for years of wear. The downside, as with most tile, is the weight; you’ll need to factor shipping costs into your budget. An 8″ square tile typically weighs in at 3 lbs., so a room’s worth of tile can add up. Tiles are typically boxed and palleted (to protect them in shipping) and sent via freight carrier. Remember to always add overage (generally 15%) to your tile order in case of breakage on site or during transit. Leftovers can be stored for future repairs.
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- La Cornue’s New Built-In Rotisserie
La Cornue’s New Built-In Rotisserie
La Cornue Flamberge Rotisserie in Cabinet
What’s more delicious than slow-roasted chicken on a summer day? Fans of fowl (and fish and other meats too) will be happy to learn that La Cornue has created the first UL-approved gas rotisserie—and this built-in doesn’t require a flue or special ventilation.
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5 Things to Do with… Shipping Pallets
You’ve likely seen wood shipping pallets, like these, piled up next to dumpsters outside your local furniture store and the like. Once the task of protecting items and providing ease-of-transport during shipping is complete, the pallet is often tossed. For those of us with a DIY eye, that means free material! Sure they’re usually built from basic, no-frills pine, but there’s something appealing in their simplicity.
Ever wonder about ways to prolong the lifecycle of these utilitarian constructs? We found five ideas for you that also happen to be easy on the wallet.
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