Quarry Floor Tiles

Frequently Asked Questions

Are quarry floor tiles suitable for outdoor use as well as indoors?

Yes, many quarry floor tiles are highly suitable for outdoor use as well as inside the home. Because quarry tiles are made from natural clay and fired at high temperatures, they are dense, durable, and frost-resistant, making them an excellent choice for patios, garden pathways, steps, and porches. Their slightly textured surface also helps to provide natural slip resistance, which is especially valuable in outdoor environments where rain and moisture are a factor. At Hyperion Tiles, we offer quarry tiles that have been specifically tested for external use and can advise you on the best installation methods, adhesives, and sealants to ensure they remain secure and weather-resistant throughout the seasons. You can even create a seamless connection between your indoor and outdoor spaces by using the same tile in both areas, which is ideal for open-plan kitchens with garden access or traditional porches that lead directly into the hallway. With the right preparation and care, quarry tiles offer a practical and attractive solution for all kinds of outdoor settings.

Do quarry tiles need to be sealed, and how often should I do it?

Quarry tiles are dense and naturally water-resistant, but they are still porous to a degree, especially if they are unsealed. For that reason, we recommend sealing your quarry tiles to protect them from stains, moisture, and marks—particularly in kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas. Sealing helps to preserve the tile’s colour and natural texture while making it easier to clean on a day-to-day basis. At Hyperion Tiles, we suggest applying a penetrating or impregnating sealant after installation and grouting, allowing it to soak into the surface and provide long-term protection. Depending on how heavily the area is used, you may want to reseal every few years, but some high-performance sealants can last even longer. If you’re unsure which product to use, our team is always happy to recommend the most suitable option based on your tile finish and the room it’s going in. Sealing is a simple process that pays off in the long term, helping your floor to maintain its natural beauty while standing up to the demands of everyday life.

Are quarry tiles slippery, especially when wet?

Quarry tiles are naturally less slippery than many other flooring materials, which is one of the reasons they’ve been used in kitchens, hallways, and outdoor spaces for generations. Their unglazed surface and slightly rough texture give them excellent grip underfoot, even when wet. This makes them a sensible and safe choice for areas where water may be present, such as porches, utility rooms, or entrance halls. That said, if the tiles become heavily soiled or polished over time, their slip resistance may reduce slightly, which is why regular cleaning is recommended to maintain their natural grip. For bathrooms or outdoor installations where moisture is constant, an anti-slip treatment or a matt-finish sealant can be applied to further improve safety. At Hyperion Tiles, we can advise you on which quarry tiles offer the best slip resistance and how to maximise safety in areas prone to water exposure. With the right maintenance, quarry tiles remain a very practical flooring option for busy family homes or commercial environments.

What style of interior suits quarry floor tiles best?

Quarry tiles are most commonly associated with traditional, rustic, and period-style interiors, but they’re far more versatile than many people realise. Their warm, natural tones and earthy finish make them perfect for country-style kitchens, Victorian hallways, and cottages where authenticity and timeless charm are key. However, they also work beautifully in modern spaces when styled thoughtfully. For example, pairing deep red quarry tiles with sleek white walls and minimalist cabinetry can create a stylish contrast that feels both grounded and contemporary. Charcoal or dark grey quarry tiles are especially suited to more industrial or modern aesthetics, adding texture and depth to loft-style apartments or new-build homes. Because of their neutral base, quarry tiles can be dressed up or down with furniture, lighting, and accessories to suit your taste. At Hyperion Tiles, we’ve seen quarry tiles used successfully in a wide range of interiors, from heritage restorations to cutting-edge renovations. Whether you're embracing tradition or giving it a modern twist, quarry tiles provide a strong and characterful foundation for your design.

How do I clean and care for quarry floor tiles?

Quarry floor tiles are known for their durability and ease of maintenance, which is one of the reasons they remain so popular. Day-to-day cleaning usually involves nothing more than a sweep with a soft broom or vacuum followed by a mop with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner. It’s best to avoid harsh chemicals or acidic products like vinegar, as these can damage the surface or affect any sealant applied. For deeper cleans, especially in kitchens or entryways, a specialist tile cleaner can be used to lift dirt without harming the finish. If your quarry tiles are sealed, this also helps prevent stains from soaking into the surface, making cleanup even easier. Over time, if grout lines become discoloured or tired-looking, they can be cleaned with a soft brush or refreshed with a suitable grout cleaner. At Hyperion Tiles, we can provide recommendations on cleaning products and sealing schedules tailored to your specific tile and setting. With just a bit of routine care, quarry tiles will last for decades and even improve with age, developing a soft patina that adds to their rustic appeal.

Hardwearing, Timeless & Full of Character: Quarry Floor Tiles from Hyperion Tiles

At Hyperion Tiles, we believe the best floors are those that combine lasting durability with natural charm—and few materials do that better than quarry floor tiles. Whether you're renovating a country kitchen, restoring a historic home, or simply looking for a robust, rustic flooring solution, quarry tiles offer a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice that’s been trusted for generations.

Quarry tiles have long been a favourite in British homes, known for their rich earthy tones and traditional appeal. These tiles are made from natural clay and fired at high temperatures to create an incredibly dense, durable material that can stand up to everyday wear and tear. They’re most often found in classic red, brown, or terracotta hues, though many modern versions also include deeper charcoal tones or softer sandy shades to suit a wider range of interiors.

At Hyperion Tiles, we stock a curated selection of high-quality quarry floor tiles that are ideal for both residential and commercial settings. Whether you're creating a traditional entranceway, a warm and welcoming kitchen, or a hard-wearing utility room, our quarry tiles bring substance and style together in a timeless package.

What Are Quarry Floor Tiles?

Quarry tiles are unglazed ceramic tiles made from natural clay and shale, typically fired at high temperatures to create a strong, non-porous surface. Unlike polished porcelain or glazed ceramics, quarry tiles have a more natural, earthy appearance with a slightly rougher texture underfoot. They’re known for their ability to resist moisture, staining, and heavy impact, which makes them ideal for both indoor and outdoor flooring in busy areas.

Traditionally used in Victorian and Edwardian hallways, porches, and kitchens, quarry tiles have stood the test of time thanks to their hardwearing nature and understated beauty. Their natural, warm colours and slightly imperfect surface give them a rustic charm that feels authentic and lived-in—perfect for period homes, farmhouse kitchens, or character properties.

At Hyperion Tiles, our quarry floor tile range is selected for performance, consistency, and visual appeal. These tiles are machine-made for uniformity but still retain the depth and texture of handmade clay products. They’re available in various sizes and finishes, so you can choose a tile that complements the architecture and design of your home, whether you're aiming for something traditional or a modern twist on a classic material.

Where Can Quarry Tiles Be Used?

One of the greatest strengths of quarry tiles is their incredible versatility. Thanks to their toughness and resistance to water and frost, they’re suitable for both interior and exterior use, making them a practical choice for areas that experience a lot of foot traffic or environmental exposure. Inside the home, they’re often used in kitchens, utility rooms, hallways, conservatories, and even fireplaces or hearths. Their naturally slip-resistant surface makes them ideal for bathrooms and wet areas too, especially when installed with a suitable sealant or anti-slip treatment.

In older properties, quarry tiles are a fantastic match for original features such as exposed brick, wooden beams, and traditional fireplaces. In modern homes, they can provide contrast to sleek finishes, adding warmth and texture that prevents the space from feeling too clinical. Many people use them as a feature in just one part of the home—such as a boot room or porch—while others embrace them across larger areas to create a consistent, heritage-inspired look.

Outside, quarry tiles can be used on patios, steps, and pathways. Because they’re naturally frost-resistant when properly installed, they won’t crack or shift in cold temperatures. Their robust surface also handles muddy boots, garden tools, and even the occasional dropped plant pot with ease. At Hyperion Tiles, we’re happy to help you choose the right type of quarry tile for your setting, whether indoors or out.

The Timeless Appeal of Quarry Tiles

There’s something about quarry tiles that instantly makes a space feel grounded and welcoming. Their warm, earthy tones and natural matte finish bring a sense of authenticity to your home that’s hard to replicate with modern synthetic flooring. This is especially true in homes where you want to maintain a connection to the building’s history or bring in rustic design elements that reflect the surrounding landscape.

While quarry tiles are typically associated with traditional interiors, they’ve also found a place in contemporary design. Pairing them with modern fixtures, minimalist cabinetry, or industrial lighting creates a balanced, textural look that feels fresh and stylish. Their natural colour palette works beautifully with everything from vintage finds to modern appliances, giving you endless styling options.

At Hyperion Tiles, we offer quarry tiles in a range of tones, from deep reds and terracottas to charcoal greys and browns. These subtle variations add depth to your floor and ensure each installation feels unique. Whether you're aiming for a rustic, Mediterranean feel or a more industrial aesthetic, quarry tiles offer a flexible foundation that can evolve with your style over time.

Performance and Practical Benefits

Aside from their aesthetic value, quarry tiles are one of the most practical flooring options available. Because they’re fired at high temperatures, they’re incredibly dense and resistant to chipping, cracking, and scratching. This makes them ideal for high-traffic areas in both homes and commercial environments. They’re also naturally slip-resistant, which adds an extra layer of safety in kitchens, hallways, and anywhere water might be present.

Quarry tiles are known for their thermal properties too. They hold heat well, making them a perfect companion for underfloor heating systems. In the summer, they help keep your home feeling cool, and in the winter, they add warmth and comfort when paired with radiant heat. This makes them especially popular in kitchens, where both temperature and durability are important.

They’re also low-maintenance. With regular sweeping and occasional mopping using a pH-neutral cleaner, your quarry tiles will maintain their appearance for years. While sealing is recommended to help protect against stains and moisture, particularly in wet areas or kitchens, once sealed, these tiles are incredibly resilient. At Hyperion Tiles, we’re happy to advise on the best sealants and cleaning products to keep your tiles looking their best.

Our Range at Hyperion Tiles

At Hyperion Tiles, we’ve taken great care to select a range of quarry floor tiles that reflect the highest quality and craftsmanship. Our tiles come in a selection of traditional tones and finishes, suitable for a variety of domestic and commercial settings. Whether you’re restoring an original tiled floor in a Victorian hallway or creating a new feature floor in a modern kitchen, our collection includes options that blend heritage style with contemporary durability.

You can choose from square, rectangular, or even hexagonal formats to create your desired layout. Whether you want a simple grid pattern, a classic brick bond, or a decorative border design, our team can help you plan your installation to maximise both impact and performance. Many of our quarry tiles are also suitable for use outdoors, allowing you to continue your interior theme onto patios, terraces, or pathways.

If you're unsure where to start, we offer tile samples and expert guidance to help you make an informed choice. Our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to support you from design concept to final installation.

Visit Hyperion Tiles or Shop Online

If you're looking for a flooring solution that offers warmth, character, and true long-lasting performance, quarry floor tiles are a brilliant option. At Hyperion Tiles, we’re proud to supply high-quality tiles that honour tradition while embracing modern innovation. Whether you're working on a period renovation, building your dream kitchen, or just adding some rustic charm to a hallway or garden space, our quarry tiles will bring texture and timeless appeal to your project.

You can browse our collection online or visit our showroom to explore the range in person. We’re always happy to offer tailored advice on tile selection, layout design, sealing, and care. With nationwide delivery and a reputation for personal service, Hyperion Tiles is here to help you find the perfect floor—one tile at a time.

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