Expert insights. Personalized for you.
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. This post is a contribution to the Range Hoods Inc July Blog Hop & $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway. As a blog hop participant, we've been asked to write about Summer DIY & Home Improvement. Check out the link to read other DIY contributions, learn more about the blog hop, and a chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card. A kitchen backsplash is one place you’ll be looking at a lot while you enjoy your home. MORE
Portugal is a land of Medieval castles, cobblestone villages, captivating cities and golden-sand beaches, history, great food and wine, and beautiful scenery. Aside from all these wonderful things are the ceramic tiles of the MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. A few weeks ago, I shared 2015 Tile Trends from my annual pilgrimage to Coverings , a trade show for tile and stone. I promised to share some other great new tile finds that Avente Tile will be adding to our offerings. Not being one to disappoint, I want to show the new Cuban Heritage Cement tile offerings from Aguayo. Cuban Heritage Design 140 4B Cement Tile. Cuban Heritage Design 150 4A Cement Tile. Cuban Heritage Design 160 4A Cement Tile. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Patchwork tile floors and walls using encaustic cement tile are incredibly popular. Patchwork is a great way to add color and pattern to any room. The cheerful designs make you smile. A cement tile patchwork design was used for this kitchen backsplash. Photo credit: Avente Customer, Laurie Suarez. Last week, I received a call from our customer Laurie Suarez of in San Clemente, CA. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Welcome! I'm pleased to announce that today is our very first post of our blog, Avente Tile Talk , at its new location here on Avente Tile. I started the Avente Tile Talk blog at AventeTileTalk.com in 2008. Even though it's been a huge success; in recent years, it became disconnected at its own location - separate from our main site. So, after some work and changes, we are relaunching the blog here! Avente Tile Talk - Our Blog's Mission Remains Unchanged. MORE
By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. How to Apply a Grout Release - Cement Tile Install Tips. When you see a finished cement tile installation (or any tile installation), it''s hard to visualize just how bad it looked when grout was first applied. The only way to get grout into the joints is by spreading it with a tile trowel. With glazed ceramic tile, grout removal and clean-up can be difficult. The task becomes more arduous when a porous material, such as cement tile, needs to be cleaned up. MORE
By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. Handmade Alcala Cement Tile on a bathroom wall. In my last post, I introduced Avente Tile’s newly published Guide to Buying Handmade Cement Tile. This 14-page downloadable Guide features information, examples of cement tile installations, FAQs, and more. To understand the nuances of cement tile, let’s look at what cement tile is, and how it differs from ceramic or porcelain tile. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Tiles tell tales!" is the way Sheila A. Menzies, Executive Director of the Tile Heritage Foundation , explained it to me many years ago. As the year draws to a close and you consider year-end donations, don''t forget about this amazing organization. They need your support and engagement! The Tile Heritage Foundation (THF) is a well-run, non-profit organization that is benevolent and generous. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. With the Summer Solstice now behind us, it's time to celebrate this much-anticipated season by enjoying the outdoors. I enjoy taking my daily neighborhood walks early in the day. It's during these walks that I stop to admire the tiled walks and entries. In this post, I'll be sharing some of my favorites that not only add to a home's uniqueness, but those that also provide welcoming curb appeal. Rustic Pavers in Mission Red create a charming tiled walk for this home. MORE
A Saltillo tile entry features a cement tile rug. Via Vanguard Studio, Inc. By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. A few weeks ago, we spoke about the history, production and properties of Saltillo tile. To recap, hand-crafted from natural clay deposits, authentic Saltillo tile can only come from one place in the world - Saltillo, in the state of Coahuila in Mexico. The process of turning this special Mexican clay into tiles has remained unchanged since 1577. MORE
By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. Coupled with decorative ceramic tiles, Saltillo tile exudes Old World charm. Hand-crafted from natural clay deposits, authentic Saltillo tile can only come from one place in the world - Saltillo, in the state of Coahuila in Mexico. The process of turning this special Mexican clay into tiles has remained unchanged since 1577. Saltillo tiles are shaped either by pressing quarried clay with a wooden frame, or by carving out the desired shape. MORE
This new collection, created by artists Guillermo Gomez Lama and Tania Marmolejo, boasts eight different designs, each presented with three color options. Further, these 10"x10" cement tiles feature new, contemporary MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Cement tiles naturally create an Old World ambiance with their traditional patterns and color variations that occur from being a hand-crafted product. For this Italian restaurant, using cement tiles was an obvious choice not only for their time-tested durability, but also for their effortless ability in helping to create a quaint, yet sophisticated, atmosphere. This Italian restaurant uses a cement tile border pattern in rows to create charm. MORE
It's a bit of a story to this tile project as this section of the floor has been concrete for a few years. I've been a builder and blogger for some time now and we have a home on Cupid's Cay, Eleuthera, Bahamas that we work on MORE
By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. Southern California artist David Shipley has created a line of contemporary hand-painted ceramic art tile based upon his unique paintings and sculptures. According to the artist, he is fascinated by the emotions and reactions brought upon by the vibrant color contrasts. David Shipley Conversation 5 | 12" x 18" Ceramic Tile Mural. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Last week, I shared 3 Ways to Create Style with Plain Hexagon Tile. This week, I play with pattern on this powerful six-sided polygon. Here are three ways patterned hexagon tiles provide a stylish look using both ceramic and cement tiles - all available from Avente Tile. Our journey of creating style with hexagon tiles continues. Hexagon Style Tip #1: Use patterned cement tile in a hexagon format for a subtle design flair. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Nothing excites me more than seeing a customer's installation photos. Readers of this blog know that I love color and pattern. Needless to say, I was thrilled when a customer from La Crescenta, CA called to order more tile. She was also gracious enough to send me installation photos from her previous order. As you can see, the showy bathroom uses one of our boldest, most colorful cement tile patterns, Melilla. Melilla Cement Tile in Master Bath. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Welcome! I'm pleased to announce that our blog and website have moved to a new hosting platform that is responsive and mobile ready. It's been a big effort with all "hands on deck" here at Avente Tile. While we haven't been blogging during the update, we look forward to sharing again at the new location and name, Avente Tile Blog. I started the blogging at AventeTileTalk.com in 2008. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Nothing adds more curb appeal, sense of personal style, and a real design punch than using decorative tiles on stair risers. Decorative tiles used on stair risers showcase personal style and add curb appeal. Tiles allow you to showcase your sense of style. However, most customers approach the use of tiled stair risers with caution. After finding a tile or two they love, I am used to being asked, "Can I do that?" or "Will that look OK?". MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Geometric tiles in classic shapes, such as chevron, hexagon, stripes, honeycomb or octagon, are a great way to add style to your home''s wall or floors. More intricate patterns reproduced on a single tile will always be more expensive than plain tiles. Here''s are a few tips to create style and accommodate just about any budget. Tip #1. Create a pattern using plain or solid-color tiles using different standard formats. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. In today''s hectic 24/7 world, a quiet place to escape, relax, renew, and refresh is more important than ever before. Designers cleverly chose cement tile flooring for this resort spa to achieve a calm and peaceful atmosphere in a commercial setting. River rock mimics the cement tile pattern in the spa corridor. Commercial flooring is often dismissed as unimportant and reduced to low-cost options. In this spa, the opposite approach was taken. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. With it''s classic six-sided shape, the hexagon is gaining and maintaining it''s elegant prowess in design circles (pun intended) once again. Here are three ways plain hexagon tiles lead to an overall stylish look. Our style guide below uses both ceramic, porcelain, and cement tiles - all available from Avente Tile. Hexagon Style Tip #1. Create a simple pattern with plain hexagon tile in two or three colors. The hexagon format was common in the 1920s. MORE
Colorful, dimensional Hispaniola cement tiles liven up a powder room. The Hispaniola Collection from Avente Tile is an exclusive, made-to-order series of beautiful handmade cement tiles inspired by the climate, textures and surroundings of the Dominican Republic. First created by renowned sculptor Patricia Feinman, the Hispaniola collection allows you to create a cement tile that reflects your signature taste and style. MORE
As the new year starts with full force, I think it only fitting to share some of our new tile patterns and lines. This week, I share our new glazed ceramic line. It''s a small line that carriers a big and very popular design punch. Our Geometric Geo 10 and Traditional Anillos or Ring pattern has been very popular in cement, so we are now offering both patterns in glazed ceramic tile. Transition Geo 10 in Glazed Ceramic Mimics Our Geo 10 Cement Tile. MORE
Stunning view of the Malibu coast from the historic Adamson House. Situated in one of the most sought after coastal locations on the West Coast in Southern California, and perhaps the nation, is the Adamson House. Now a museum, the Adamson House occupies land that was previously home to the Chumash Indians until the 18th century. Later, according to Malibu Adamson House Foundation (MAHF) records, “the Rindge family owned 17,000 acres and 20 miles of coastline.” MORE
Guest post by Jane Blanchard, Modernize. Vibrant blue Arabesque tile adds visual interest. Image via Modernize. Tile is a popular choice for kitchen floors and backsplashes, so popular that even the priciest and most custom options can seem bland. One tile company is changing that, one beautifully unique tile at a time. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Despite hundreds of existing cement tile patterns, sometimes you just have to literally "break the mold." In the commercial design of this golf clubhouse, a simple contemporary design was created specifically for this environment. Custom cement tile patterns, like this one for a clubhouse, provide limitless possibilities for commercial design. MORE
By Tudor Davies, Terry's Fabrics. As you may know, Bill Buyok is the founder and owner of Avente Tile. He started the company as an online tile showroom and catalog so that hand painted ceramic tiles and cement tiles are more easily and broadly available for others who share the same passion. Our mission at Avente Tile is to search the globe to find the finest and most extraordinary tiles for our customers while providing excellent service and product knowledge. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Last month, I reported some of my favorite tile trends and finds from Coverings in the my blog post Tile Trends 2015: Variety is the Spice of Tile. One of the most unique new tile designs I spotted at the show is a relief cement wall tile line from Aguayo Tiles called Elevations. Without further ado, Avente Tile is proud to announce the premier of this exciting design line of relief cement tiles. Elevations is a new cement tile in relief for walls. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Since launching our new line of Porcelain Pool Tile earlier this month, we''ve been getting a lot of questions about what makes porcelain tile better than ceramic tile. More commonly, the question is simply, "What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic tile?" It’s a question I gladly welcome and one that is fairly easy to answer. Glazed porcelain tiles, like the blue tiles used for this fountain, are a good choice for pools and spas. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. The hot, humid weather we've been experiencing in Southern California since last week has taken a toll on me. I am not used to the tropical weather, so I find my mind wandering. The entry gates to La Casa Nueva at the Homestead Museum. However, with the stifling and oppressive heat, there is great news! We received some much-needed rain for our parched California lands. MORE
This past week I attended an event in Boston that was hosted by Tile of Spain which showed the advances that have been made in ceramic tile. At this event, there was also an opportunity to gain a CEU credit but I was MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Sealers for cement tile should be applied to protect the tile from water and staining; but, they can also be used to enhance or restore color. A color enhancing sealer was used on this exterior cement tile walk, stair risers, and treads to protect them and brighten the colors. Color enhancing impregnating sealers are used to brighten cement tile colors, especially exterior tiles subject to fading from the sun. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Recently, I had a rare opportunity to tour a house with Royal Delft tiles installed in almost every room. Located in the Fairfax District of Los Angeles, the home tour was arranged by Joe Taylor and Sheila Menzies of The Tile Heritage Foundation for a collector. The small, unassuming corner lot house is a treasure trove of original Dutch cloisonné tiles and mural from the 1920s. A resplendent Art Deco tile fountain. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Two weeks ago I introduced our new decorative glazed ceramic tiles. In that post, Geometrical Ceramic Tiles Ring in the New Year , I explained how two popular cement tile patterns, our Geo 10 and Traditional Anillos , are now available in a glazed ceramic tile format. I also promised to to share some additional forthcoming patterns and I''m excited to unveil them now. Geometrical Ellipse A - Wainscot Concept. MORE
As I conclude my final post on playing with pattern in tile design, I'm excited to share a unique wall installation of our classic, popular Cuban tiles and our newest line of cement tile offered by Aguayo Cement Tile. That's yours MORE
With the Fourth of July Holiday just around the corner, I found my thoughts wandering toward the sunny California coast. So, I thought I'd share one of my favorite historical tile haunts, The Adamson House. It's located right on the Pacific Ocean and steps from the Malibu Pier in Malibu, California. Even if you aren't interested in tile and California history, it's hard to find a reason not to visit this lovely location. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. As we conclude our tour of the Original Los Angeles Spec House, I''ll pick up where we left off from last week''s post. First, a little background information! If you love tile, then you can''t miss this rare opportunity to tour a house with tiles installed in nearly every room, including some Royal Delft cloisonné decorative tiles. MORE
By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. Our new Geometrical Glazed Ceramic tile collection was used to create this appealing kitchen backsplash. Our Geometrical line of ceramic tile mixes classic hand-painted glaze techniques with modern, geometric patterns to achieve an absolutely stunning look. They are ideal for backsplashes, accent strips or anywhere a splash of design is needed. The Geometrical Ceramic Tile collection features hand-glazed, modern patterns. MORE
Star and Hexagonal Tile Panel, 13th-14th century (Nishapur, Iran). Image via The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Steeped in a rich history of architectural, design and natural elements, the hexagon is a fundamental shape when it comes to building. The six-sided polygon, which can be found in honeycombs, crystals, snowflakes, and most importantly tile, creates a classic yet distinguished look. Arabesque Hexagon Spanish Paver Tile | Avente Tile. MORE
By Cheryl Khan of Trade Winds Imports. Maybe your bathroom is stuck in the 60s or maybe you just need to freshen things up a bit. The vanity backsplash serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose, adding decorative features to your bathroom while simultaneously protecting your walls from moisture. A backsplash allows you to personalize your bathroom with a style that mirrors your own taste, character, and lifestyle. Photography by highfithome. MORE
Deep indigo pool tiles, coupled with the architecture of the pool house, make for an incredible outdoor setting. Image via Architectural Digest. Handcrafted artisan porcelain tiles are perfect for pools and water features. The materials and methods used in art pottery are similarly applied to classic porcelain tile-making techniques to achieve rich glazes that excite the eyes and hands. As such, these porcelain tiles embody the charm and appeal of fine handmade ceramic ware. MORE
Exercise your creativity with handmade cement tile! Last month, we reviewed the time-tested quality manufacturing processes and techniques utilized in producing handmade cement tile. In this third installation, we’ll take a look at the various sizes, shapes and formats available with cement tiles. As you can see in the chart below, handmade cement tiles not only offer beauty and dimension, they also offer flexibility in design with patterns, reliefs and moldings, and solid color cement tiles. MORE
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Last week was action-packed as I made my annual pilgrimage to Coverings, a trade show for tile and stone. The week-long event took place in Orlando, Florida and was filled with highlights including seeing long-time friends, a face to face meeting with designer Alena Capra , and listening to Ryan Fasan , Tile of Spain ''s Technical consultant, speak about trends with design. Bill Buyok, Avente Tile owner, at Coverings 2015. MORE
Tile Talk
MARCH 17, 2015
Guest post by Jane Blanchard, Modernize. Vibrant blue Arabesque tile adds visual interest. Image via Modernize. Tile is a popular choice for kitchen floors and backsplashes, so popular that even the priciest and most custom options can seem bland. One tile company is changing that, one beautifully unique tile at a time.
Tile Talk
MARCH 10, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Nothing adds more curb appeal, sense of personal style, and a real design punch than using decorative tiles on stair risers. Decorative tiles used on stair risers showcase personal style and add curb appeal. Tiles allow you to showcase your sense of style. However, most customers approach the use of tiled stair risers with caution. After finding a tile or two they love, I am used to being asked, "Can I do that?" or "Will that look OK?".
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Tile Talk
DECEMBER 16, 2014
By Cheryl Khan of Trade Winds Imports. Maybe your bathroom is stuck in the 60s or maybe you just need to freshen things up a bit. The vanity backsplash serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose, adding decorative features to your bathroom while simultaneously protecting your walls from moisture. A backsplash allows you to personalize your bathroom with a style that mirrors your own taste, character, and lifestyle. Photography by highfithome.
Tile Talk
JULY 7, 2015
Stunning view of the Malibu coast from the historic Adamson House. Situated in one of the most sought after coastal locations on the West Coast in Southern California, and perhaps the nation, is the Adamson House. Now a museum, the Adamson House occupies land that was previously home to the Chumash Indians until the 18th century. Later, according to Malibu Adamson House Foundation (MAHF) records, “the Rindge family owned 17,000 acres and 20 miles of coastline.”
Tile Talk
JUNE 30, 2015
With the Fourth of July Holiday just around the corner, I found my thoughts wandering toward the sunny California coast. So, I thought I'd share one of my favorite historical tile haunts, The Adamson House. It's located right on the Pacific Ocean and steps from the Malibu Pier in Malibu, California. Even if you aren't interested in tile and California history, it's hard to find a reason not to visit this lovely location.
Tile Talk
JUNE 2, 2015
Star and Hexagonal Tile Panel, 13th-14th century (Nishapur, Iran). Image via The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Steeped in a rich history of architectural, design and natural elements, the hexagon is a fundamental shape when it comes to building. The six-sided polygon, which can be found in honeycombs, crystals, snowflakes, and most importantly tile, creates a classic yet distinguished look. Arabesque Hexagon Spanish Paver Tile | Avente Tile.
Tile Talk
JULY 22, 2014
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Since launching our new line of Porcelain Pool Tile earlier this month, we''ve been getting a lot of questions about what makes porcelain tile better than ceramic tile. More commonly, the question is simply, "What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic tile?" It’s a question I gladly welcome and one that is fairly easy to answer. Glazed porcelain tiles, like the blue tiles used for this fountain, are a good choice for pools and spas.
Tile Talk
FEBRUARY 17, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. As we conclude our tour of the Original Los Angeles Spec House, I''ll pick up where we left off from last week''s post. First, a little background information! If you love tile, then you can''t miss this rare opportunity to tour a house with tiles installed in nearly every room, including some Royal Delft cloisonné decorative tiles.
Tile Talk
MAY 5, 2015
Deep indigo pool tiles, coupled with the architecture of the pool house, make for an incredible outdoor setting. Image via Architectural Digest. Handcrafted artisan porcelain tiles are perfect for pools and water features. The materials and methods used in art pottery are similarly applied to classic porcelain tile-making techniques to achieve rich glazes that excite the eyes and hands. As such, these porcelain tiles embody the charm and appeal of fine handmade ceramic ware.
Tile Talk
MARCH 24, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. With it''s classic six-sided shape, the hexagon is gaining and maintaining it''s elegant prowess in design circles (pun intended) once again. Here are three ways plain hexagon tiles lead to an overall stylish look. Our style guide below uses both ceramic, porcelain, and cement tiles - all available from Avente Tile. Hexagon Style Tip #1. Create a simple pattern with plain hexagon tile in two or three colors. The hexagon format was common in the 1920s.
Tile Talk
MAY 12, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. A few weeks ago, I shared 2015 Tile Trends from my annual pilgrimage to Coverings , a trade show for tile and stone. I promised to share some other great new tile finds that Avente Tile will be adding to our offerings. Not being one to disappoint, I want to show the new Cuban Heritage Cement tile offerings from Aguayo. Cuban Heritage Design 140 4B Cement Tile. Cuban Heritage Design 150 4A Cement Tile. Cuban Heritage Design 160 4A Cement Tile.
Tile Talk
MARCH 3, 2015
By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. Southern California artist David Shipley has created a line of contemporary hand-painted ceramic art tile based upon his unique paintings and sculptures. According to the artist, he is fascinated by the emotions and reactions brought upon by the vibrant color contrasts. David Shipley Conversation 5 | 12" x 18" Ceramic Tile Mural.
Tile Talk
MARCH 31, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Last week, I shared 3 Ways to Create Style with Plain Hexagon Tile. This week, I play with pattern on this powerful six-sided polygon. Here are three ways patterned hexagon tiles provide a stylish look using both ceramic and cement tiles - all available from Avente Tile. Our journey of creating style with hexagon tiles continues. Hexagon Style Tip #1: Use patterned cement tile in a hexagon format for a subtle design flair.
Tile Talk
JULY 28, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. This post is a contribution to the Range Hoods Inc July Blog Hop & $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway. As a blog hop participant, we've been asked to write about Summer DIY & Home Improvement. Check out the link to read other DIY contributions, learn more about the blog hop, and a chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card. A kitchen backsplash is one place you’ll be looking at a lot while you enjoy your home.
Tile Talk
JANUARY 27, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Two weeks ago I introduced our new decorative glazed ceramic tiles. In that post, Geometrical Ceramic Tiles Ring in the New Year , I explained how two popular cement tile patterns, our Geo 10 and Traditional Anillos , are now available in a glazed ceramic tile format. I also promised to to share some additional forthcoming patterns and I''m excited to unveil them now. Geometrical Ellipse A - Wainscot Concept.
Tile Talk
FEBRUARY 3, 2015
By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. Our new Geometrical Glazed Ceramic tile collection was used to create this appealing kitchen backsplash. Our Geometrical line of ceramic tile mixes classic hand-painted glaze techniques with modern, geometric patterns to achieve an absolutely stunning look. They are ideal for backsplashes, accent strips or anywhere a splash of design is needed. The Geometrical Ceramic Tile collection features hand-glazed, modern patterns.
Tile Talk
MAY 19, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Last month, I reported some of my favorite tile trends and finds from Coverings in the my blog post Tile Trends 2015: Variety is the Spice of Tile. One of the most unique new tile designs I spotted at the show is a relief cement wall tile line from Aguayo Tiles called Elevations. Without further ado, Avente Tile is proud to announce the premier of this exciting design line of relief cement tiles. Elevations is a new cement tile in relief for walls.
Tile Talk
FEBRUARY 24, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Geometric tiles in classic shapes, such as chevron, hexagon, stripes, honeycomb or octagon, are a great way to add style to your home''s wall or floors. More intricate patterns reproduced on a single tile will always be more expensive than plain tiles. Here''s are a few tips to create style and accommodate just about any budget. Tip #1. Create a pattern using plain or solid-color tiles using different standard formats.
Tile Talk
APRIL 7, 2015
By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. Coupled with decorative ceramic tiles, Saltillo tile exudes Old World charm. Hand-crafted from natural clay deposits, authentic Saltillo tile can only come from one place in the world - Saltillo, in the state of Coahuila in Mexico. The process of turning this special Mexican clay into tiles has remained unchanged since 1577. Saltillo tiles are shaped either by pressing quarried clay with a wooden frame, or by carving out the desired shape.
Tile Talk
NOVEMBER 4, 2014
By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. How to Apply a Grout Release - Cement Tile Install Tips. When you see a finished cement tile installation (or any tile installation), it''s hard to visualize just how bad it looked when grout was first applied. The only way to get grout into the joints is by spreading it with a tile trowel. With glazed ceramic tile, grout removal and clean-up can be difficult. The task becomes more arduous when a porous material, such as cement tile, needs to be cleaned up.
Tile Talk
JULY 21, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. The hot, humid weather we've been experiencing in Southern California since last week has taken a toll on me. I am not used to the tropical weather, so I find my mind wandering. The entry gates to La Casa Nueva at the Homestead Museum. However, with the stifling and oppressive heat, there is great news! We received some much-needed rain for our parched California lands.
Tile Talk
JUNE 16, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Sealers for cement tile should be applied to protect the tile from water and staining; but, they can also be used to enhance or restore color. A color enhancing sealer was used on this exterior cement tile walk, stair risers, and treads to protect them and brighten the colors. Color enhancing impregnating sealers are used to brighten cement tile colors, especially exterior tiles subject to fading from the sun.
Tile Talk
AUGUST 4, 2015
Colorful, dimensional Hispaniola cement tiles liven up a powder room. The Hispaniola Collection from Avente Tile is an exclusive, made-to-order series of beautiful handmade cement tiles inspired by the climate, textures and surroundings of the Dominican Republic. First created by renowned sculptor Patricia Feinman, the Hispaniola collection allows you to create a cement tile that reflects your signature taste and style.
Tile Talk
AUGUST 11, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Welcome! I'm pleased to announce that today is our very first post of our blog, Avente Tile Talk , at its new location here on Avente Tile. I started the Avente Tile Talk blog at AventeTileTalk.com in 2008. Even though it's been a huge success; in recent years, it became disconnected at its own location - separate from our main site. So, after some work and changes, we are relaunching the blog here! Avente Tile Talk - Our Blog's Mission Remains Unchanged.
Tile Talk
APRIL 28, 2015
A Saltillo tile entry features a cement tile rug. Via Vanguard Studio, Inc. By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. A few weeks ago, we spoke about the history, production and properties of Saltillo tile. To recap, hand-crafted from natural clay deposits, authentic Saltillo tile can only come from one place in the world - Saltillo, in the state of Coahuila in Mexico. The process of turning this special Mexican clay into tiles has remained unchanged since 1577.
Tile Talk
OCTOBER 23, 2012
This past week I attended an event in Boston that was hosted by Tile of Spain which showed the advances that have been made in ceramic tile. At this event, there was also an opportunity to gain a CEU credit but I was
Tile Talk
JANUARY 13, 2015
As the new year starts with full force, I think it only fitting to share some of our new tile patterns and lines. This week, I share our new glazed ceramic line. It''s a small line that carriers a big and very popular design punch. Our Geometric Geo 10 and Traditional Anillos or Ring pattern has been very popular in cement, so we are now offering both patterns in glazed ceramic tile. Transition Geo 10 in Glazed Ceramic Mimics Our Geo 10 Cement Tile.
Tile Talk
NOVEMBER 11, 2014
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. In today''s hectic 24/7 world, a quiet place to escape, relax, renew, and refresh is more important than ever before. Designers cleverly chose cement tile flooring for this resort spa to achieve a calm and peaceful atmosphere in a commercial setting. River rock mimics the cement tile pattern in the spa corridor. Commercial flooring is often dismissed as unimportant and reduced to low-cost options. In this spa, the opposite approach was taken.
Tile Talk
AUGUST 19, 2014
By Arpi Nalbandian , Tileometry. Handmade Alcala Cement Tile on a bathroom wall. In my last post, I introduced Avente Tile’s newly published Guide to Buying Handmade Cement Tile. This 14-page downloadable Guide features information, examples of cement tile installations, FAQs, and more. To understand the nuances of cement tile, let’s look at what cement tile is, and how it differs from ceramic or porcelain tile.
Tile Talk
MAY 13, 2014
This new collection, created by artists Guillermo Gomez Lama and Tania Marmolejo, boasts eight different designs, each presented with three color options. Further, these 10"x10" cement tiles feature new, contemporary
Tile Talk
AUGUST 8, 2017
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Welcome! I'm pleased to announce that our blog and website have moved to a new hosting platform that is responsive and mobile ready. It's been a big effort with all "hands on deck" here at Avente Tile. While we haven't been blogging during the update, we look forward to sharing again at the new location and name, Avente Tile Blog. I started the blogging at AventeTileTalk.com in 2008.
Tile Talk
NOVEMBER 18, 2014
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Despite hundreds of existing cement tile patterns, sometimes you just have to literally "break the mold." In the commercial design of this golf clubhouse, a simple contemporary design was created specifically for this environment. Custom cement tile patterns, like this one for a clubhouse, provide limitless possibilities for commercial design.
Tile Talk
FEBRUARY 10, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Recently, I had a rare opportunity to tour a house with Royal Delft tiles installed in almost every room. Located in the Fairfax District of Los Angeles, the home tour was arranged by Joe Taylor and Sheila Menzies of The Tile Heritage Foundation for a collector. The small, unassuming corner lot house is a treasure trove of original Dutch cloisonné tiles and mural from the 1920s. A resplendent Art Deco tile fountain.
Tile Talk
OCTOBER 21, 2014
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Cement tiles naturally create an Old World ambiance with their traditional patterns and color variations that occur from being a hand-crafted product. For this Italian restaurant, using cement tiles was an obvious choice not only for their time-tested durability, but also for their effortless ability in helping to create a quaint, yet sophisticated, atmosphere. This Italian restaurant uses a cement tile border pattern in rows to create charm.
Tile Talk
NOVEMBER 27, 2012
It's a bit of a story to this tile project as this section of the floor has been concrete for a few years. I've been a builder and blogger for some time now and we have a home on Cupid's Cay, Eleuthera, Bahamas that we work on
Tile Talk
APRIL 29, 2014
As I conclude my final post on playing with pattern in tile design, I'm excited to share a unique wall installation of our classic, popular Cuban tiles and our newest line of cement tile offered by Aguayo Cement Tile. That's yours
Tile Talk
MAY 26, 2015
By Tudor Davies, Terry's Fabrics. As you may know, Bill Buyok is the founder and owner of Avente Tile. He started the company as an online tile showroom and catalog so that hand painted ceramic tiles and cement tiles are more easily and broadly available for others who share the same passion. Our mission at Avente Tile is to search the globe to find the finest and most extraordinary tiles for our customers while providing excellent service and product knowledge.
Tile Talk
DECEMBER 9, 2014
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Tiles tell tales!" is the way Sheila A. Menzies, Executive Director of the Tile Heritage Foundation , explained it to me many years ago. As the year draws to a close and you consider year-end donations, don''t forget about this amazing organization. They need your support and engagement! The Tile Heritage Foundation (THF) is a well-run, non-profit organization that is benevolent and generous.
Tile Talk
JUNE 23, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. With the Summer Solstice now behind us, it's time to celebrate this much-anticipated season by enjoying the outdoors. I enjoy taking my daily neighborhood walks early in the day. It's during these walks that I stop to admire the tiled walks and entries. In this post, I'll be sharing some of my favorites that not only add to a home's uniqueness, but those that also provide welcoming curb appeal. Rustic Pavers in Mission Red create a charming tiled walk for this home.
Tile Talk
SEPTEMBER 23, 2014
Exercise your creativity with handmade cement tile! Last month, we reviewed the time-tested quality manufacturing processes and techniques utilized in producing handmade cement tile. In this third installation, we’ll take a look at the various sizes, shapes and formats available with cement tiles. As you can see in the chart below, handmade cement tiles not only offer beauty and dimension, they also offer flexibility in design with patterns, reliefs and moldings, and solid color cement tiles.
Tile Talk
DECEMBER 10, 2013
Portugal is a land of Medieval castles, cobblestone villages, captivating cities and golden-sand beaches, history, great food and wine, and beautiful scenery. Aside from all these wonderful things are the ceramic tiles of the
Tile Talk
NOVEMBER 25, 2014
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Patchwork tile floors and walls using encaustic cement tile are incredibly popular. Patchwork is a great way to add color and pattern to any room. The cheerful designs make you smile. A cement tile patchwork design was used for this kitchen backsplash. Photo credit: Avente Customer, Laurie Suarez. Last week, I received a call from our customer Laurie Suarez of in San Clemente, CA.
Tile Talk
JUNE 9, 2015
By Bill Buyok , Avente Tile. Nothing excites me more than seeing a customer's installation photos. Readers of this blog know that I love color and pattern. Needless to say, I was thrilled when a customer from La Crescenta, CA called to order more tile. She was also gracious enough to send me installation photos from her previous order. As you can see, the showy bathroom uses one of our boldest, most colorful cement tile patterns, Melilla. Melilla Cement Tile in Master Bath.
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