Mathematical tile
The mathematical tile was an external cladding or tile hanging solution that was popular in the 17-1800's in the South of England. The tiles were shaped in such a way that they interlocked and from the outside face resembled a brick facade and were a popular cladding solution for timber frame buildings.
It has been suggested that the tiles were designed as an alternative to bricks as a result of the brick tax introduced by King George III in 1784, however although known as the Brick tax, it actually also covered tiles and so these were subject to the same tax, though unclear if less. It is more likely that the tiles represented a useful solution to dealing with the facade of timber frame buildings in seasde locations, because they were cheaper, simpler and quicker to construct than brick and in many respects as, if not more resistant to weathering.
In areas around the South Coast of England, such as Brighton and Lewes a specific black glazed version of the tile was popular, many examples of which can still be seen today. (image credit Stuart Walsh under CC license)
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Battens.
- Ceiling tiles.
- Ceramic tiles.
- Domestic roofs.
- Flashing.
- Flat roof defects.
- Metal profile cladding.
- Metal roofing.
- Nails - a brief history.
- Photocatalytic tiles.
- Pitched roof.
- Roof coverings.
- Roof insulation.
- Roof slates.
- Roofing defects.
- Shingle roofing.
- Thatch roofing.
- Tiles.
- Tile roofing.
- Types of nails.
- Types of roof.
- Weatherboarding.
Featured articles and news
How can digital twins boost profitability within construction?
A brief description of a smart construction dashboard, collecting as-built data, as a s site changes forming an accurate digital twin.
Unlocking surplus public defence land and more to speed up the delivery of housing.
The Planning and Infrastructure bill oulined
With reactions from IHBC and others on its potential impacts.
Farnborough College Unveils its Half-house for Sustainable Construction Training.
Spring Statement 2025 with reactions from industry
Confirming previously announced funding, and welfare changes amid adjusted growth forecast.
Scottish Government responds to Grenfell report
As fund for unsafe cladding assessments is launched.
CLC and BSR process map for HRB approvals
One of the initial outputs of their weekly BSR meetings.
Architects Academy at an insulation manufacturing facility
Programme of technical engagement for aspiring designers.
Building Safety Levy technical consultation response
Details of the planned levy now due in 2026.
Great British Energy install solar on school and NHS sites
200 schools and 200 NHS sites to get solar systems, as first project of the newly formed government initiative.
600 million for 60,000 more skilled construction workers
Announced by Treasury ahead of the Spring Statement.
The restoration of the novelist’s birthplace in Eastwood.
Life Critical Fire Safety External Wall System LCFS EWS
Breaking down what is meant by this now often used term.
PAC report on the Remediation of Dangerous Cladding
Recommendations on workforce, transparency, support, insurance, funding, fraud and mismanagement.
New towns, expanded settlements and housing delivery
Modular inquiry asks if new towns and expanded settlements are an effective means of delivering housing.
Building Engineering Business Survey Q1 2025
Survey shows growth remains flat as skill shortages and volatile pricing persist.