The retro style is in fashion in the world of interior design. Undoubtedly, one of the main consequences of this is that, nowadays, more and more people opt for hydraulic tile for their home. But what other reasons explain this? In ParaTuReforma we want to tell you all the advantages offered by this type of flooring so that you too are encouraged to bet on it.
Hydraulic tile: what is it?
The first thing we must do is to explain to you exactly what a hydraulic tile is. The first references to this type of flooring date back to the mid-19th century and have their roots in France. In fact, it rose to popularity as an alternative to natural stone slabs such as marble at the Paris World’s Fair in 1867.
However, the presentation of this type of tile to the world was made by the Barcelona firm Garret, Rivet y Cía:
- It was a type of floor that did not require previous firing, so its elaboration was much simpler.
- It did not use natural stone and was therefore much cheaper.
- It offered previously unthinkable design options.
Proof of its Catalan origin is that hydraulic tile was one of the preferred supports of the artists who developed modernism. In fact, in our catalog you can find Dune’s Gaudí collection, which pays tribute to its main reference.
In any case, hydraulic flooring uses cement compacted through the use of hydraulic presses (hence its name). The most popular format was, and still is, 20 x 20 cm, although it is true that there are many others ranging from 10 x 10 cm to 40 x 40 cm. Even hexagonal and octagonal versions have been developed over time.
Imitation hydraulic tiles, a before and an after
These tiles were the protagonists in many homes until the 1960s, i.e. for about 100 years. However, the appearance of other more modern and functional materials, the increase in the cost of production and new trends in interior design caused their popularity to decline significantly.
Fortunately, a few years ago the retro style burst onto the market and brought the hydraulic floor back into fashion. At least, the imitation. Thanks to porcelain stoneware, it is possible to manufacture tiles of this type that are practically identical to the originals, but offer many additional advantages.
Main advantages of hydraulic tiles
If you finally decide to install hydraulic tiles in your home, you will enjoy a variety of advantages. Both aesthetically, economically and functionally. Let’s see them in detail.
1. They are very easy to install
In fact, many installers are able to install them without using guides. It should also be noted that they make very little mess in the house when they are installed, which makes the renovation more bearable.
2. Adapt to any space
For a long time, hydraulic floors were only present in the living rooms, bedrooms and hallways of homes. However, it was not recommended to install them in bathrooms and kitchens. The reason? They did not offer a good grip, so when they got wet they increased the risk of slipping.
However, it is now possible to apply various treatments to the surface of these tiles in order to increase their adhesion. In this way, the chances of an accident, for example, when getting out of the shower, are much reduced.
3. Resistance
The porcelain stoneware used to make today’s hydraulic floors is as strong as the pressed cement originally used. Maybe even more so. Therefore, you won’t have to worry if you drop a jar or jar, as the floor will most likely not suffer any damage.
In addition, it is a very durable type of pavement. It may take several decades before it shows even the slightest sign of wear. In other words, you will probably get bored of it before the deterioration of time and use forces you to change it.
4. Can help you define spaces
Especially if you have a loft-style home or have simply knocked down some walls so that there is no separation between your living room, dining room and kitchen. Moreover, inside these rooms can also be useful in this regard. For example, creating a hydraulic carpet under the coffee table.
5. Variety of designs
You only have to take a look at our catalog of imitation hydraulic flooring to realize that, today, the aesthetic possibilities offered by this type of flooring are almost endless. In it you will find reflected Arab, Italian, Andalusian, modernist trends…
So, literally, no matter what the style that predominates in your home or you want to give it once the reform is completed. You are sure to find a hydraulic floor that fits perfectly with it.
6. Compatible with underfloor heating systems.
The last advantage of the hydraulic tile that we are going to analyze. Contrary to what happened with the original, the one made from porcelain stoneware is compatible with this technology. Something that will come in handy if you live in a fairly cold place and want to enjoy the magnificent comfort offered by this technology.
Installing hydraulic flooring in your home is a safe bet.
After all that we have just said, we believe we have made clear all the benefits that can bring you install hydraulic tile in your home. Undoubtedly, it is a pavement with an exceptional value for money that, in addition, will give your home a touch of elegance and style that very few options are able to offer. We invite you to contact us to answer any questions you may have and to ask for a quote.
