What is Terracotta?
Terracotta comes from an Italian phrase which means “baked-earth”. Terracotta ranges in warm earth toned colors from yellow to red, brown, and pink. The color comes from the high iron content of the soil from which the clay is found.
Terracotta tiles are made from clay that has been shaped into their form and then fired or baked to become hard. They are a variety of ceramic tiles that are porous. Most natural terracotta floor tiles come sealed in order to protect them from spills which can lead to mold or stains. Some terracotta tiles are burnished to create a tighter surface finish to reduce water absorption.
Finishes
There are two main tile finishes for terracotta: glazed or unglazed.
- Glazed Terracotta Tiles – Glazed terracotta floor tiles have a colored or transparent vitreous coating. This coating protects the terracotta tile floor from any liquid that is spilled. It prevents stains and the growth of mildew. Manufacturers create terracotta tiles in a variety of glaze levels from semi-glazed to high-glazed. Glazed terracotta tiles offer many benefits but are more expensive than unglazed tiles.
- Unglazed Terracotta Tiles – Unglazed tiles do not have a protective coating, but have a more natural look. Sealing unglazed tiles will give the surface some protection against moisture and stains.
Cuts
Terracotta floor tiles come in two main cut styles: handmade and machine-cut.
- Machine-Cut Terracotta Tile – Machine-cut tile is the most common and cost-effective terracotta tile cut. These have a more consistent shape and color than handmade varieties. There is also more selection regarding shape. Installation is easier with machine-cut tile as the exact shape is replicated with all tiles.
- Handmade Tile – Creating tiles from clay is a local craft for areas of Mexico and around the Mediterranean. Artisans craft these tiles by hand. Thus, these tiles will vary in size and shape. These tiles are more expensive than machine-cut varieties. Installation is more difficult because of the non-standardized shape.
Water Resistance
Terracotta is a porous substance similar to natural travertine. Glazing and sealing makes the floor tiles more water resistant. If you have unglazed terracotta flooring tiles, it is important to wipe up any spills before they have a change to soak into the tiles.
Water will not soak into glazed tiles, but these may become slippery when wet. Make sure that if you are using glazed tiles in areas with water they have a slip-resistant surface.
Durability
In general, terracotta floor tiles are very durable. Glazed terracotta is the most durable form of tile, though unglazed tiles with a quality sealer are also long-lasting.
All terracotta tiles wear better in covered and protected areas. Unglazed tile is the most fragile and may crack in cold environments.
Maintenance
If you have unglazed tiles, sealing your floor is the first step to beginning well. Use a commercial sealer formulated for terracotta or create your own with linseed oil and turpentine. Combine equal parts of boiled linseed oil with turpentine and wipe on your floors. Top the sealer with beeswax to give the top layer an even more protective finish.
Make sure to check the seal each year to see if you need to repeat the process. Check by dropping a bead of water onto the floor. If it soaks into the tile, reseal the tile.
How to Clean Terracotta Tiles
Vacuum your terracotta floors on a regular basis to keep them free of dust, debris, and sand that can stain or scratch the surface. Do not use a vacuum attachment that scratches the floor. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush.
Mop your terracotta tiles each week with warm water and a cleaner for terracotta. Do not use a soaking mop. Instead, use a mop that you have wrung out to avoid leaving standing water on the tiles.
Location for Use
Terracotta tiles work best in covered locations in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Outdoor applications should be limited to climates that do not experience regular freezing temperatures. If outdoor tiles soak in water and it freezes, the tiles can crack.
Installation
Installing terracotta tile can be a DIY job if you have experience in tiling. Handmade and unglazed tiles are more delicate than machine-cut glazed tiles.
Prices
According to Remodeling Expense, clay tiles cost $2.30-$5.50 per sq ft. On average, clay tile installation labor costs between $1.25-$1.90 per sq ft. The average cost for a 300 sq ft room is $1,440-$2,235.
Pros and Cons
Terracotta is a unique substance that creates stunning floors. This flooring has qualities that mean that it does not have universal application.
Pros:
- Durability – Terracotta is a durable floor if it is sealed on a regular basis and installed well.
- Beauty – Terracotta tiles create a gorgeous and earthy style with depth and texture.
- Versatility – Designers use clay tiles in versatile home design from modern and contemporary to rustic and traditional.
- Eco-Conscious – Terracotta tiles are sustainable and recyclable floor choice.
- Cost – Clay is a less expensive natural floor product compared to natural stone surfaces and porcelain tiles.
Cons:
- Water Absorption – Clay is porous and will absorb water.
- Maintenance – Seal terracotta on a regular basis to maintain its beauty.