Tuff (through Italian tufo, from Latin tufus, tōfus) is a light, cemented, porous rock.
Volcanic tuff is an igneous rock made of volcanic ash, volcanic bombs and other debris ejected during a volcanic eruption and compacted. It often contains an admixture of non-volcanic rocks. Volcanic tuff is an excellent wall stone. One of the most valuable qualities of this rock is that it is easy to work with, volcanic tuff can be worked with an ax and a saw.
90% of the world's tuff reserves are located in Armenia, which is the leader in the world supplies of this stone. Also tuff is mined in Italy. This natural material is formed by volcanic eruptions. Due to the fact that many minerals are involved in the formation of tuff, this stone boasts an excellent range of colors - about 28 types, from white to black, with many shades of red, pink, purple, green.
In addition, tuffs have an inimitable structure and numerous inclusions that help designers decorate rooms of any complexity.
Tuff buildings date back more than six centuries, such as the churches built near Lake Sevan in the early 15th century. There are a great many tuff structures in Armenia, and the inhabitants of such houses will confirm that this stone is eternal. For example, its frost resistance is several times higher than that of the best brick.
Of course, the disadvantage of tuff is its high cost, but since this is a material for centuries, plus insulation and a presentable appearance and protection of the building, this material fully justifies the money spent.
What properties does volcanic tuff have:
- Frost resistance. It is used in the Caucasus, where temperature drops reach 40 degrees. In severe winters, houses are not additionally insulated.
- Excellent heat and sound conductivity of the stone is ensured by its porous structure.
- Water resistance (unlike some types of travertine). Volcanic tuff tolerates sediments perfectly, and the appearance of the stone does not suffer from them, since it does not crumble, does not weather and practically does not grow moldy.
- High strength and durability.
- Ease of handling.
- Excellent aesthetic appearance
The interiors in which tuff is used are, first of all, comfortable, beautiful, original and very natural. This stone is warm, which brings a special comfort to the room. Tuff can be used to decorate both individual elements and the entire room.
Decorative elements are also made from it, which look very natural next to plants. These can be tables and benches, pedestals and columns, vases, decorative walls, etc.
It is important that natural factors practically do not age the tuff.