Terra Cotta Tile

Terracotta, from the Italian “terra” (earth) and “cotta” (cooked) means just that...cooked earth! Terracotta refers to any bisque, pot, paver, etc. that is made out of natural clay and is fired in a kiln. Terra cotta tile is made from raw clay and is usually unglazed. Terra Cotta tile has been used for many years as a durable floor tile surface. Similar in look and feel is satillo tile which is made the same way. Today, the most commonly used clay pavers in the United States come from Mexico.

Why Choose Terracotta Tile?

There are so many different materials to choose from when it comes to flooring, so why choose granet tile? To begin with, Terra Cotta tile has been used for many years as a durable floor tile surface. Terracotta tiles offer an informal and somewhat rustic or even southwestern feel. Terracotta tiles are beautiful in their natural state. However, they are very porous. In order to be durable and last longer, they need to be sealed, often more than once during the initial installation. The colors range from natural earthtones such as gray and brownish yellow to various shades of red. Terracotta tile are water, allergen and bacteria resistant, a plus for most homeowners. As mentioned before, they do have to be sealed to have these properties. As an added plus, terracotta tiles are very affordable. Terra Cotta is perfect for many uses such as kitchen tile, bathroom tile, patio tile and even for pool decks. It is reccommended that a sealer is used when used near sources of water.

Pros for using Terracotta Tile

• Strong and durable
• Traditional old world beauty
• Creates a rich, soft feeling
• Many choices for finishing gloss - from none to high gloss
• Great for both indoor and outdoor uses
  

 

Cons for Using Terracotta Tile

• Relatively soft, and can stain easily
• It can scratch very easily
• It can crack or chip

Care and Maintanance of Terra Cotta

Terra Cotta requires some care and attention in order to maintain its original appearance. Many stone tiles including limestone are porous in nature, excessive water may cause reactions such as oxidation, staining, deterioration, etc. Special impregnating or penatrating sealers are recommended to avoid these problems. We always apply sealers to any limestone applications. Warm water, mild dishwashing liquid and a soft cloth clean up most spills. Terra Cotta is especially susceptible to damage from citric acids, alcohols, and oils. Vinegar is acidic and will leave a dull spot on limestone. Avoid the following acidic materials from coming in contact with your limestone: Vinegar, lemon, tomato and tomato sauce, bleach, coffee, urine, vomit, tile cleaners, X-14, toilet bowl cleaners, and cleaners with lemon. Let the professionals at Creative Tile assist you in choosing the proper products for cleaning and maintaining limestone. With proper care, your limestone's beauty will last for generations.

Why Choose Creative Tile?

Creative Tile is a innovative San Diego based company fully equipped to handle all phases of Terra Cotta, Stone and Ceramic Tile Installations as well as polishing and sealing, residential or commercial. We have been serving San Diego County and Temecula since 1999 and pride ourselves in providing personalized, professional service to achieve a top quality product, on time and within the budget specified. Whether you are considering remoldling your kitchen or bathroom or just looking to update you home, there are so many options and different materials to choose from. The tile experts at Creative Tile can offer expert advice on installation of interior or exterior custom flooring, countertops, back spalshes, fireplaces, showers, kitchens, bathrooms, balconies and more. Get a custom Free Quote today!