Quarry Tiles History

Given the availability of clay in the UK quarry tiles have been around for centuries. Clay was used as a popular building medium for all kinds of purposes. In early centuries it would have been cut and manufactured by hand and then dried in the open air or, latterly, baked to make it hard.

Records show that clay was a popular material in all ages. It is thought that the Romans were the first to actually fire clay to make tiles. This kind of tile started on its real road to success, however, during the 1200s when the then King (John) announced that clay tiles had to be used in London for roofing purposes rather than combustible ones.

Nowadays clay tile production is a far cry from its original format. The clay is prepared by being fed through an extruder which removes air and moisture from the clay and which also makes it mouldable. It is then formatted into the relevant shape of tile for which it will be used. The tiles are then dried before being fired in a kiln.

Nowadays quarry tiles are still used for all kinds of purposes. They are particularly popular as floor tiles and can be used both indoors and outdoors.