Hollow clay elements with predominantly two-dimensional development. Born to lighten horizontal structures, they are the historical protagonists of mixed floors (on steel or wood beams) and act as an excellent gripping base for plastered ceilings.
Cross-section of a steel joist and clay tile floor (putrelle and tavelloni). Hollow cells reduce dead load while the ribbed surface ensures perfect mortar adhesion.
Clay tiles and floor blocks are the bridge elements of horizontal architecture. Rigid yet lightweight, they cover the spans between joists, acting as permanent formwork for concrete and as a fire shield for the load-bearing framework.
Clay is extruded through a die generating a continuous ribbon, cut to desired lengths up to 120 cm. The high perforation percentage reduces weight without compromising longitudinal flexural strength. External dovetail scoring guarantees perfect adhesion of bedding mortar or plaster.
The introduction of the steel I-beam in the late 19th century revolutionised construction. Clay blocks resting on the lower flanges created a rigid, incombustible floor. Subsequently, flat tiles were used as incombustible planking over wooden roof trusses (scempiato roof) or as lightweight covers for ventilated crawl spaces.
European and international references applicable.
When cutting tiles to fit, use an angle grinder with a diamond disc. Never use percussion tools: the thin cell walls shatter. For suspended ceilings, galvanised metal wire ties are anchored through the cells every 30 cm.
The classic system: tiles cut flute-beak shaped resting on the flanges of steel IPE beams.
PRC.18 · Open the processTiles dry-laid closely on wooden roof joists, as a firebreak base for insulation and coppi.
PRC.04 · Open the processVertical use to line technical shafts or as a suspended ceiling, plasterable.
PRC.26 · Open the processTiles laid on edge (vertically) to create insulation false walls with extremely high installation speed.
PRC.33 · Open the processReplacing solid masonry vaults with steel joist and tile floors reduced foundation loads by two-thirds, enabling the construction of taller buildings.
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