Introducing the Recycled Clay Collection
Discover how Clay Imports is transforming rejected glazed tiles into stunning, sustainable tiles through a full-circle process.
As a company of people, with a mission rooted in a respect for our earth and its resources, Clay Imports understands the importance of preserving our planet and promoting sustainable living. With that in mind, we have been experimenting behind the scenes and are thrilled to announce a strikingly beautiful, trailblazing way to make tile: Let us introduce you to the Recycled Clay collection.
Generally, recycling glazed ceramic tiles is challenging due to their unique composition and properties. The glazing process creates a non-porous surface that is resistant to melting and re-forming, making it difficult to remove the glaze and recycle the tiles. Limited options are available for processing and repurposing them. Clay Imports found a way to reuse glazed ceramic tiles using a full-circle process:
While imperfections are to be expected with handmade tiles, occasionally some pieces don't meet our high-quality standards. So, we recycle them and make NEW TILES!
“Recycled Clay tiles are made by crushing rejected glazed tiles and mixing them with raw clay and recycled water to create tiles that are even stronger and more durable.”
We know many of you care deeply about the environment, and we share that passion with you. The impact of our choice is always at the forefront of what we do. This is why we strive to not only make products that look great but also contribute to a greener future. Let's dive into what makes this collection truly special and how it can help you create spaces that are as eco-conscious as they are stunning.
The Concept Behind The Collection
We believe that great design and sustainability go hand in hand. With this new collection, we wanted to create something that would inspire others to live mindfully.
The Issue Of Tile Waste And Its Environmental Impact
Did you know that each year, tons of tile waste is generated during manufacturing and renovation processes? Most of this ends up in landfills, contributing to pollution and the depletion of our natural resources. As believers in this supporting our beautiful planet, we knew there had to be a better way to repurpose these scraps and give them a new life.
The Benefits Of Using Recycled Materials In Tile Production
By using recycled materials, we're not only diverting waste from landfills but also reducing the demand for raw materials like clay and minerals. This, in turn, helps conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, these recycled tiles have higher durability and aesthetic appeal than their traditional tile counterparts, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious designers.
In addition to recycled glazed tiles, water is recycled throughout the entire production process, if excess water is left over from glazing, it is used in the clay body tile mixture!
Our design team embraced the challenge of transforming waste and rejected tiles into stunning new pieces. They experimented with various colors and textures ultimately creating a collection that is diverse and vibrant. The result? A sustainable and stylish range of tiles that can breathe new life into any space.
Collection Highlights
Let's dive into some of the standout features that make these recycled tiles a must-have for any tile project.
Unique Design Options Inspired by Nature
Our design team took inspiration from the natural beauty of Mexican landscapes, creating a diverse array of tiles that reflects the rich hues and textures of our varied surroundings. From earthy tones reminiscent of sun-kissed hills to vibrant blues that capture the essence of coastal living, there's a tile for every taste.
Specialty Finish
In addition to recycling water and rejected pieces, we take recycling one step further. Meet specialty finish, Barro Matte. Barro is the ultimate recycled clay tile. It has the same recycled durable clay body as the other tiles in this collection. The difference? Even the glaze is mixed with the base clay. This mixture creates a matte finish and gorgeous natural clay color. Similar in coloration to our popular Dhanis Red Terracotta Tiles.
For Different Spaces And Styles
One of the best things about our recycled tiles is how versatile they are. They're perfect for any room in your home, be it a kitchen backsplash, a bathroom feature wall, or a statement fireplace surround. The possibilities are endless!
Price Point
By recycling rejected tiles and water during production and not using unused resources, we can keep our pricing competitive so you can enjoy handcrafted, high-quality clay tiles without compromising your budget or the planet.
The Manufacturing Process
You might be curious as to how we transform tile scraps into these fabulous recycled tiles. So, let's pull back the curtain and give you a glimpse into the eco-friendly magic that happens behind the scenes in our factories.
Collecting Waste And Rejected Glazed Tiles
When hand-making tile, sometimes after leaving the kiln, pieces can break, have chips, and other imperfections that don’t meet our quality standards. We save all of these tiles and give the scraps a second chance to shine.
The Recycling Process: Crushing, Cleaning, And Reforming
Once we've collected the waste scraps, the real fun begins! The tiles are crushed into smaller pieces, which are then mixed with a small amount of fresh materials to ensure optimal durability. Impurities are then extracted from this mixture, pressed, and fired in a kiln, resulting in brand-new, recycled tile bodies ready for glazing.
Quality Control And Assurance
We take quality seriously, and our recycled tiles are no exception. Throughout the manufacturing process, we rigorously test and inspect the tiles to ensure they meet our high standards of durability, natural color variation, and overall aesthetics. That means you can trust that our recycled tiles are not only beautiful but also built to last.
Environmental Benefits And Impact Reduction
By using recycled materials in our tiles, we're helping to reduce waste and minimize our carbon footprint. But the benefits don't stop there! When you choose our recycled tiles for your home, you're also contributing to a greener future: You are supporting sustainable design and manufacturing practices. It's a win-win for both you and the planet.
Join the Sustainable Design Movement
Now that you've learned all about our new recycled tile collection, we hope you're as excited as we are about the potential of eco-friendly, sustainable design. By picking sustainable materials for your home, you're joining a growing movement that's all about protecting our planet for future generations. Join us on our journey and embrace beautiful design while making a difference, one tile at a time.
The Growing Trend Of Eco-Friendly Interior Design
More and more, people are looking for ways to make their homes stylish and sustainable. From reclaimed wood to energy-efficient lighting, there are countless options for adding sustainable elements to your living spaces. Our recycled tile collection is just one more way you can make a positive impact while staying true to your design aesthetic.
How Choosing Recycled Tiles Contributes To A Greener Future
By opting for recycled tiles, you're not only reducing waste and conserving resources but also supporting a circular economy. This means that materials are continuously repurposed and reused, minimizing the need for new raw materials and reducing environmental impact. Every tile you choose makes a difference!
Other Sustainable Products And Practices To Consider For Your Projects
Our recycled tile collection is just the beginning. There are so many other ways to create eco-friendly spaces that align with your lifestyle. Consider using low-VOC products, like our organic terracotta line of tiles for cleaner air inside your home. Don't forget to also incorporate plants for cleaner air and a touch of natural beauty!
We hope you're feeling inspired to explore our new collection of recycled tiles and bring some eco-friendly flair to your home. Remember, every small step towards sustainability counts, and together, we can create a greener future for our beloved communities. So go ahead, dive into the world of sustainable design, and let your imagination run wild.
If you have any questions or require more information, don't hesitate to reach out to us at contact@clayimports.com or chat with us here. We're always here to help!
