Antique French Terracotta Floor — 16 × 16 cm
Discover the character of reclaimed terracotta tiles from historic farmhouses, manor houses and country estates. Hand-cleaned, sorted, and ready to install — compatible with modern underfloor heating.
Overview
These authentic French terracotta floor tiles — also known as boerenplavuizen or estrikken — are salvaged by our own specialists from renovations and careful demolitions. Each tile is hand-chiseled clean and meticulously graded by size and tone, resulting in an A-grade selection that is immediately ready for installation and perfectly suited to underfloor heating.
Most batches date from the 18th and 19th centuries and display the warm patina that only time can create.
Product Details & Specifications
| Reference | T01 |
|---|---|
| Format | 16 × 16 cm |
| Thickness | Approx. 25 mm on average; handmade, so slight variation |
| Colour | Nuanced red, ranging from warm to deep red (iron-rich clay, traditionally fired) |
| Period | 18th – 19th century |
| Origin | French rural regions; occasionally Northern Italy |
| Selection | A-grade (first sorting) — hand-cleaned, sorted by size and tone, ready to lay |
| Stock | Approx. 400 m², typically available from stock |
| Use | Indoors only; also suitable under a covered veranda |
| Underfloor Heating | Excellent thermal conduction; fully compatible |
Application & Installation
The 16 × 16 cm format works beautifully in kitchens, living rooms, orangeries, hallways and entrances — laid straight or on the diagonal. The rich tonal variation ensures every project has a unique, historic appearance.
For authentic results, natural lime mortars or a grey cement grout with silver sand are commonly used. Our team can advise on patterns, joints and finishes.
Delivery & Care
We deliver throughout the Netherlands and Belgium via our own trucks or partners. Tiles are safely packed in sturdy crates and we include a few extra tiles to facilitate hassle-free installation.
Maintenance is simple: regular vacuuming/sweeping and mopping with a pH-neutral cleaner. Treating the floor with a suitable penetrating sealer improves stain resistance and ease of cleaning. We can supply recommended care products with your order.
Glossary
- Terracotta: Low-fired clay; porous, warm-hued material.
- Boerenplavuizen: Traditional square terracotta floor tiles from farmhouses and manor houses.
- Estrikken: Historic term for hand-moulded terracotta floor tiles.
- Impregnator (sealer): Deep protective treatment that reduces absorption of dirt and moisture.
- A-grade: Clean, sorted by size and colour; ready to install.
FAQ
Can I combine these antique terracotta tiles with underfloor heating?
Yes. Terracotta conducts heat exceptionally well and works with both hydronic and electric systems. Allow the floor to cure fully and seal after grouting.
Can I install the floor myself, or do I need a professional?
An experienced DIYer can install these tiles, but for the best result we recommend a professional familiar with historic materials.
Orders & advice: info@de-opkamer.nl. Samples, technical guidance and tailored quotations available. Special conditions and support for architects and contractors.
Because these are historic materials, minor variations and traces of age are part of the authentic character.