Planning on laying down some gorgeous and unique Terracotta tiles?
Make sure that the surface you are laying the terracotta tiles on is completely clean, if it's a surface that has been previously sealed such as concrete you'll need to grind down the surface to ensure the adhesives hold.
Do you have to seal terracotta tiles? Porcelain terracotta effect tiles no, they have a porosity of 0.5% so are stain proof and require no sealing. Natural terracotta however does, its a porous material like a sponge, we recommend a traditional sealing method of boiled linseed oil until the sealant is no longer absorbed, it may take a few applications and once complete the water will sit on the surface in a bubble, for internal applications we also recommend finishing with a clear wax to protect which can be reapplied every couple of years, keeping your floor in perfect condition with minimal upkeep.
We strongly advise you to use light coloured grouting, when grouting it is very important to clean the tiles as you progress using clean water and a damp sponge.
Adding some terracotta colour to your room instantly warms it and brightens at the same time, these hues are a perfect alternative to deeper colours but imitate the warming cosy effect. Playing around with different terracotta shades brings depth and identity to a space. Pick and choose some blush tones in those lighter months and switch out accessories with the more orangey-reddish shades to fashion a warmer and cosy vibe.
Terracotta tiles are porous. Therefor they need to be sealed to avoid staines. But when you care for your tiles as you should than they can last a very long time (and they only get more beautiful with age).
Frequently asked questions
Can I use terracotta tiles on outdoor patios? Yep. Terracotta tile patios are a popular space for this type of flooring.
Are terracotta tiles hard to maintain? Terracotta flooring should not be hard to maintain if purchased as fully sealed tiles and installed correctly with proper installation materials.
