Cement Wall Tiles

Why cement wall tiles are gaining ground in Australia

Once reserved for Mediterranean courtyards, cement wall tiles are now a confident choice for contemporary Australian interiors and exteriors. Their high density makes them tough enough for busy commercial corridors, yet their hand-pressed patina feels warm and organic in a home. A natural grey base can be left raw for a minimalist cement look or pigmented in almost any hue using mineral oxides. Because they are cured rather than fired, cement tiles also carry a lower embodied energy than traditional ceramics—an advantage for sustainability-minded projects.

Benefits at a glance

• Design freedom – From geometric encaustic patterns to oversized cement-look wall slabs, the format options are almost limitless.
• Durability – Correctly sealed, cement offers impressive resistance to impacts and temperature swings.
• Slip & moisture control – Slight surface texture can improve grip, while dense composition resists water when paired with quality cement based wall tile adhesive and sealer.
• Repairability – If damage occurs, individual pieces are simple to remove and replace without re-tiling the whole wall.
• Sustainability – Many Australian suppliers use recycled aggregates and rain-water curing processes.

Substrates and preparation

The longevity of any wall tile ultimately rests on the substrate. Cement is weightier than porcelain, so adequate support is critical.

Fibre cement sheeting & cement board

For wet areas, fibre cement sheeting for wall tiling is the industry standard because it is dimensionally stable and resists swelling. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for cement board thickness for wall tile—10–12 mm is typical for residential bathrooms, while high-traffic commercial spaces may need 15 mm.

Do you need cement board for wall tile in dry zones? Not always. Rendered masonry or solid plaster can be acceptable as long as the surface is flat, clean and fully cured.

Adhesives & additives

A polymer-modified, cement based wall tile adhesive is recommended for maximum bond strength. It tolerates minor movement and suits both indoor and outdoor applications. Avoid shortcuts such as premixed mastic; they seldom meet the shear-strength requirements set out in the National Construction Code.

Installation tips

• Layout dry first – Especially with patterned cement tiles for wall designs. This ensures motifs align and grout joints remain consistent.
• Back-butter every piece – The texture of handmade tiles can create voids; buttering eliminates hollow spots.
• Press, don’t slide – Sliding can drag excess adhesive creating lippage.
• Seal before grouting – An initial penetrating sealer prevents pigment staining from coloured grouts.
• Grout width – 2–3 mm is common, but wider joints enhance an artisanal aesthetic.

Wondering how to install tiles on wall with cement or how to fix wall tiles with cement if a few come loose? The same adhesive used for the initial set works for spot repairs. Simply remove the old tile cement from wall, clean the area and re-bed the tile.

Maintenance & refurbishment

Regular cleaning only needs a pH-neutral detergent. Acidic cleaners can etch the surface and should be avoided. If renovation work leaves you fighting to get tile cement off wall surfaces nearby, soften it first with warm water and a plastic scraper, then neutralise with baking soda. For stubborn residue, use a commercial cement remover formulated for wall tile cement.

Planning to refresh a tired bathroom? You can install cement over tile wall substrates provided the existing tiles are sound and lightly abraded to improve adhesion.

Popular applications

Bathroom & shower walls

Cement tile bathroom wall panels provide a calm, spa-like vibe. Specify a high-grade sealant and confirm the shower wall fall meets drainage rules.

Kitchen splashbacks

Patterned encaustic pieces create a focal point while resisting heat from cooktops.

Commercial front-of-house

Large cement look wall tiles deliver monolithic impact in hotel lobbies and retail stores.

Comparing alternatives

If you are still exploring finishes, visit our broader Tiles range or view specialised options such as Mosaic Tiles, Floor Tiles, Ceiling Tiles, Decorative Tiles and Tactile Indicators. Each category is curated with the same rigour as our cement wall tiles collection.

Next steps

Browse the full selection below, order samples, or connect directly with Australia’s leading suppliers to receive accurate lead times and project-specific advice.