Is Terracotta Tile Right for Your Home?
Terracotta tile is readily available and less expensive than many other ceramic forms.
Its popularity stems mainly from its attractive natural colors, which are the epitome of earth tones.
The Spruce/ Christopher Lee Foto
They are also characterized by their thickness.
High-density tiles are thicker; meanwhile, the low-density types are thinner.
High-density terracotta will be more resistant to cracking and is a better choice for heavy-use areas.
Low-density terracotta is a bargain material that may not hold well under heavy use.
Saltillo terracotta is a prevalent form made from clay found in Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico.
Saltillo tiles have a unique and identifiable blend of yellow and reddish tones.
Other color varieties include antique Saltillo, manganese, and Spanish mission red.
But this attribute makes terracotta very porous in its natural, unglazed state.
That means that water and liquids can seep easily into its core, causing mold or stains.
For this reason, natural terracotta is usually periodically treated with a sealant to protect it against those hazards.
Another process, known as surface burnishing, can also reduce the absorbency of natural terracotta.
It’s easy to tell glazed terracotta from its unglazed counterpart since it has a glossy finish.
Glazing is how standard ceramic tiles obtain their color through dyes blended with the glazing material.
The process creates a waterproof surface to the tile, making it impervious to stains.
When glazing is applied to terracotta, it covers the muted beauty of the earthen colors of the tile.
Consider buying hand-glazed or hand-painted terracotta tiles to balance appearance and function.
Machine-Cut vs.
Handmade Terracotta Tiles
you’re free to choose between machine-cut or handmade products when buying terracotta floor tiles.
Handmade terracotta is identifiable by its imprecise cuts and slight irregularities.
The atmosphere is both rugged and subdued.
This material is an excellent choice for any rustic or natural parameters and log cabin style decors.
It is popular in living rooms and enclosed porches.
Warmer than stone or glazed ceramic, terracotta is also perfect for a hearth-and-home or earth-tone decor.
Water absorbed into the terracotta can freeze and crack the tiles in colder climates.
An impregnating solvent soaks into the porous floor, leaving a matte finish.
Sealants are easy to apply with a roller or brush, usually needing about 72 hours to cure.
Stains can be removed with a mixture of oxalic acid and water.
Never use acidic cleaners, such as ammonia or vinegar, as these can damage or discolor the tiles.
Avoid using wire brushes when hand cleaning the flooring.
Never use epoxy grout since it can damage the tile surface.
