Everything You Need to Know About Tile Crazing
By Clay Imports
We share your passion for glazed tiles: from their artisanal craftsmanship to their diverse colors, beautiful finishes, and versatile applications. But have you ever noticed the intriguing crackling effect that can develop on the glazed surface over time? This phenomenon, known as crazing, is a natural feature of glazed terracotta tiles. In this article, we’ll explain what crazing is, why it happens, how to care for it, and even how to embrace it as part of your tile’s unique charm.
- What is crazing?
- How and why does crazing happen?
- When does crazing occur?
- Is crazing the same as cracking?
- How to mantain crazed tiles?
- Preventing and managing crazing during installation
Yucca Crackle and Espina Gloss tiles as seen on HGTV's 100 Day Hotel Challenge.
What is Crazing?
Crazing refers to the appearance of small, hairline cracks on the glazed surface of ceramic tiles. This surface-level effect occurs naturally and can happen at various times: straight out of the kiln, while tiles are in the box, during installation, or even months or years after installation. Sometimes, crazing might never occur.
Crazing is unique to each tile and does not affect its structural integrity or durability. Instead, it adds depth, character, and a vintage aesthetic to your tiles.
How and Why does Crazing Happen?
The glaze on tiles is made from powdered glass fused to the tile body during kiln firing. The glaze and tile body expand and contract at slightly different rates during this process, creating tiny cracks in the glaze. This natural occurrence is not influenced by the tile’s color, sheen, or finish. Instead, it is a hallmark of handmade and artisanal production.
A stunning bathroom showcasing the Stem & Flora Nectar tile with visible crazing.
Design by Kim Wolfe | Photo by Madeline Harper
When does crazing occur?
- Before installation: Sometimes, you may even hear it happening.
- During installation: This is why low-contrast, low-pigment grout is recommended to avoid emphasizing the crazing.
- Over time: Weeks, months, or years after installation, depending on environmental factors and usage.
While it’s impossible to predict exactly when crazing will occur, being aware of this natural process can help you appreciate its unique beauty.
Is crazing the Same as Cracking?
Not at all!
- Crazing is a surface-level, cosmetic feature that enhances the tile’s charm without affecting its durability.
- Cracking, on the other hand, is a structural issue involving fractures through the tile body. Cracking typically signals substrate problems or other installation defects.
Crazing adds character to tiles, while cracking may require repairs or replacement.
Stunning modern dinning room featuring Path & Round Oxblood tile.
Design by Kim Wolfe | Photo by Sam Biemer
How to Mantain Crazed Tiles?
Crazed tiles are safe and durable but require thoughtful care to preserve their beauty:
- Regular cleaning: Sweep or vacuum loose dirt and debris. Use a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft cloth or mop.
- Avoid harsh products: Steer clear of abrasive cleaners, chemicals, or scrub brushes that could damage the glaze.
- Sealing: Apply a penetrating sealer to protect the glaze and prevent grout or dirt from settling into the crazing lines.
For outdoor applications, dip-sealing handmade clay tiles are recommended to protect against moisture and extreme conditions.
Close-up of Yucca Crackle tile showcasing visible crazing, highlighting its intricate charm.
Preventing and Managing Crazing During Installation
Preventing Highlighted Crazing:
- Use low-pigment grout (e.g., neutral gray or white) to minimize contrast.
- Pre-treat tiles with a penetrating sealer or grout release to fill surface voids and prevent grout pigment from settling into crazing lines.
- Apply 2–3 coats of penetrating sealer after installation for added protection.
Managing Highlighted Crazing:
If grout pigment highlights crazing and becomes unwanted:
1. Use diluted muriatic acid to remove the pigment. Test carefully and follow safety precautions.
2. Scrub gently with a fine plastic bristle brush.
3. Clean immediately with water to prevent damage.
4. Re-seal the tile surface to prevent future issues.
Extreme Cases: If cleaning fails, replacing affected tiles is an option. Prevent future issues by pre-sealing and using low-pigment grout during reinstallation.
Embracing Crazing: A Feature, Not a Flaw
Crazing is a testament to the handmade nature of your tiles, adding character and depth that makes each tile truly unique. At Clay Imports, we even offer "pre-crazed" tiles through our crackle collection, allowing you to enjoy this timeless aesthetic right from the beginning.
Turquoise tile with visible crazing, adding depth, shading, and character to a stylish bar face design.
Conclusion
- Crazing is not a defect but a natural part of artisan tile production.
- Proactively sealing tiles before and after installation minimizes the appearance of crazing.
- If you’re drawn to the charm of crazing, check out our crackle tiles for pre-crazed options.
Explore our selection of glazed terracotta, recycled clay, printed patterns, vintage clay, and Poco x Clay ceramics to find tiles that celebrate the beauty of imperfection.
For questions or more information, feel free to contact us at contact@clayimports.com. Let’s celebrate the beauty of handcrafted tiles together!
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