Split face tiles are natural stone cladding panels designed to bring texture, depth and visual character to both interior and exterior walls. Their distinctive 3D layered surface is formed by arranging small pieces of stone at varying heights, creating a natural play of light and shadow that cannot be achieved with flat tiles.
Because they combine a traditional stone appearance with a contemporary textured finish, split face tiles have become a popular choice across the UK for feature walls, fireplaces, garden walls and commercial interiors. Their strong natural character allows them to blend comfortably with classic homes while equally suiting modern minimalist designs.
How Split Face Tiles Are Made
Split face cladding is crafted by cutting natural stone into thin strips and bonding these pieces onto a backing to create an interlocking panel. The pieces are arranged at different depths, producing the signature layered “split” texture.
Most split face tiles sold in the UK use durable stones such as quartzite, slate, granite and basalt. These materials offer excellent strength, natural colour stability and low water absorption, making them suitable for British weather conditions.
Why Choose Split Face Tiles?
Split face tiles offer a balance of visual impact and practical performance, making them suitable for a wide range of residential and commercial applications. Key advantages include:
- Rich natural texture – The 3D profile adds depth and character to any wall.
- Strong durability – Dense natural stone ensures long-lasting performance indoors and outdoors.
- Timeless appearance – Natural stone suits both traditional and contemporary British architecture.
- Easy installation – Interlocking panels simplify fitting compared with individual stone pieces.
- Low maintenance – Once installed and sealed where appropriate, upkeep is minimal.
Where Can Split Face Tiles Be Used?
Split face tiles are extremely versatile and work well in many environments.
Interior Uses
- Living-room feature walls
- Fireplace surrounds
- Kitchen splashbacks
- Bathroom feature areas (in dry zones)
- Commercial reception walls
Exterior Uses
- Garden walls
- Entrance porches and pillars
- Outdoor seating areas
- House façades
- Decorative landscaping elements
When the correct stone type is selected, split face tiles perform reliably outdoors, tolerating frost, moisture and general weathering.
Popular Sizes: 550 × 150 vs 360 × 100
Two panel sizes dominate the UK market: 550 × 150 mm and 360 × 100 mm.
The 550 × 150 mm format covers a wider area per panel, reduces visible joints and creates a cleaner, more modern finish. It also shortens installation time, making it ideal for larger spaces and outdoor walls.
The 360 × 100 mm size provides a more detailed texture and is often preferred for smaller feature walls indoors. Both sizes interlock neatly, but the larger format typically delivers a more premium visual effect.
To browse the available options, visit our page for 550 × 150 split face tiles.
Are Split Face Tiles Suitable for Outdoor Use?
Yes — most natural stone split face tiles are suitable for exterior installation in the UK, especially those made from frost-resistant materials like quartzite or slate. Their dense structure and low water absorption help them withstand freeze–thaw cycles and damp weather.
Proper installation is essential. A solid masonry background, an S1-rated adhesive and appropriate sealing (particularly in exposed areas) are recommended.
Do Split Face Tiles Need Sealing?
Whether sealing is required depends on the stone type and where the tiles are installed. Quartzite may need minimal treatment, whereas slate or basalt benefits from an impregnating sealer, especially in kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor locations.
Sealing helps protect the surface from moisture, dirt and weathering, keeping colours rich and preventing staining.
Installation Essentials
For the best finish, split face tiles should be fixed to a stable, solid wall using a high-performance S1 adhesive. Although the interlocking design makes alignment straightforward, careful planning ensures a balanced appearance.
Sealing after installation is often recommended for areas exposed to moisture. Full step-by-step guidance is provided in our installation resources.
Summary
Split face tiles are an attractive, durable and versatile option for creating eye-catching wall features in British homes and gardens. Their natural stone texture, multi-layered depth and long-lasting performance make them a reliable choice for both domestic and commercial settings.
Whether you’re designing a feature wall indoors or upgrading an outdoor space, our collection of split face tiles provides a wide variety of colours, materials and sizes to suit your project.
Related Split Face Tile Guides
For a deeper understanding of split face tiles and how to use them in UK homes and gardens, explore our full set of dedicated guides below:
550 × 150 vs 360 × 100 – Size Comparison
Colour Guide – Choosing the Right Shade
Best Uses for Split Face Tiles in the UK
