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Specification
Physical properties of terracotta and faience, tested in accordance with the British Standards (BS) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), by Ceram Research, British Ceramic Research Ltd.
All of our processes are controlled by a Quality Management System complying to ISO9001:2008, which we believe is the absolute minimum our customers should come to expect.
All of our products exceed the test requirements shown in the standards below:
| Test | Standard |
|---|---|
| Compressive Strength | BS EN772-1: 2000 |
| Absorption | BS EN ISO 10545-3: 1997 |
| Frost Resistance | BS EN ISO 10545-12: 1997 |
| Crazing Resistance | BS EN ISO 10545-11: 1997 |
| Chemical Resistance | BS EN ISO 10545-13: 1997 |
| Thermal Expansion | BS EN ISO 10545-8: 1997 |
| Mohs Hardness | BBS 6431-13: 1986 & EN101: 1991 |
| Net and Gross Density | BS EN 772-13: 2000 |
| Soluble Salts | BS EN 772-5: 2001 |
Dimensional tolerance for architectural terracotta is +/- 2%
View our US Specifications.
Durability
Vitrified ceramic materials are unaffected by ageing, weathering, ultraviolet radiation or atmospheric pollution.
For some restoration projects or specific design requirements, it may be more important to achieve a good aesthetic match than to achieve specific physical properties and tolerances. Each project should be individually considered.
Fixing and Cleaning
The importance of employing companies that are competent or who have years of experience in such matters can not be stressed highly enough.
All too often we see some of our country’s finest buildings having been incorrectly cleaned, causing irreparable damage to materials. The fixing of terracotta and faience should not be underestimated. It is only with experience that their natural characteristics are appreciated. Shaws of Darwen will gladly advise on both these important matters and recommend specialist companies able to carry out such work.
For general site handling, fixing, safety and physical property specifications, please contact our terracotta sales office.



