What is terracotta, and why is every tile different
Terracotta is made by molding clay and firing it at high temperature. The position in the kiln, the moisture content of the clay and the firing time create small differences in each batch. This is why tone variations and millimetric size deviations are seen between tiles; this is an expected characteristic of the product and gives the surface liveliness once installed.
What to watch for during installation
- Before laying the tiles, open several boxes together and spread them on the floor mixed; let the dark and light tones be distributed over the entire area.
- Do not keep the joints narrow, so that size variations are accommodated. A 4-5 mm joint both hides the variation and suits the character of the surface.
- Unglazed terracotta absorbs water. Applying sealer after installation and before grouting also prevents the grout from staining the tile surface.
Sealing and maintenance
Unglazed terracotta is porous; liquids such as water, oil and wine are absorbed quickly. Apply a water- and oil-repellent sealer after installation, and repeat this every few years in kitchens and entryways. Use a pH-neutral product for daily cleaning and avoid abrasive brushes. Glazed surfaces do not need this.
Which space it suits
Terracotta is a warm surface that pairs well with wood and woven materials; it is often used on kitchen floors, entrance halls, verandas and around fireplaces. If you will use it in wet areas, choose glazed products or keep up with sealing maintenance.
Box calculation and waste allowance
Does the color change over time
Unglazed terracotta darkens with use. Foot traffic, layers of sealer and natural oiling give the surface a depth called patina over time. This is not unwanted wear but the expected behavior of the material; in many installations it is the most loved aspect of terracotta. If you want the color to stay constant, choose glazed products.
Tiles are priced per square meter and sold in boxes. Enter the square meters you need in the calculator on the product page; it finds how many boxes you need and adds an allowance for cuts and breakage. The waste allowance we recommend is between 10 and 15 percent; keep it close to the upper limit for patterned and diagonal layouts.
