About Clinker

Clinker tiles (Klinker) are high-fired clay tiles, baked at temperatures above 1200 degrees C - significantly higher than terracotta or cotto. This high-temperature firing vitrifies the clay body, creating a very dense, hard, and frost-resistant tile. The name 'clinker' comes from the ringing sound these dense tiles make when struck together.

The key difference between clinker and terracotta/cotto is the firing temperature. Terracotta fires at 900-1050 degrees C, leaving the clay body porous and soft. Clinker fires at 1200+ degrees C, which vitrifies (partially melts) the clay particles, fusing them into a dense, glass-like matrix with very low water absorption (<3%). This makes clinker frost-proof - water cannot enter the tile body to freeze and expand.

Unlike terracotta, clinker tiles have low porosity and high mechanical strength, making them suitable for demanding applications including outdoor terraces, driveways, and commercial floors. They are acid-resistant and frost-proof, requiring minimal maintenance compared to their softer terracotta cousins. Clinker can withstand vehicle traffic, de-icing salts, and decades of freeze-thaw cycles without damage.

Clinker tiles are available in natural earth tones - reds, browns, yellows, and dark charcoal - derived from the clay composition and firing temperature rather than added pigments. The colours are therefore completely stable and will not fade over decades, even in direct sunlight. Higher firing temperatures produce darker tones (brown to charcoal), while lower temperatures within the clinker range produce reds and oranges.

New clinker can develop efflorescence - white salt deposits that migrate to the surface as moisture in the bedding mortar evaporates. This is a temporary phenomenon that typically resolves within the first year. If persistent, it can be removed with diluted Cement Residue Remover. Clinker Oil enhances the natural warm tones and gives the surface a rich, deep appearance similar to wet stone.