Terracotta is “baked earth“ in Italian. Which has since translated into “red coloured earthenware“. Terracotta tiles are often used in backyard patios, pool areas, sauna or hot-tub areas, in steam rooms, and as an accent in kitchens and bathrooms .
The biggest fault of the terracotta tile is their maintenance requirements, requiring frequent resealing treatments.
Terracotta tiles offer a warm, rustic, and natural look, adding a unique charm to kitchen and bathroom areas.
When maintained, terracotta tiles are a steadfast and eco-friendly solution made directly from Mother Earth.
While the natural variation in colour can be appealing, it may not be to everyone’s taste and can make it challenging to achieve a uniform look. Terracotta tiles require regular sealing to protect them from water damage and stains, which can be more demanding than other tiles. High-quality terracotta tiles can be expensive, and the cost of regular maintenance can add up over time.
How Terracotta Tiles are Made
Terracotta tiles are made from clay, mined in regions from regions such as Italy, where the clay has a high concentration of iron oxide, giving it its reddish earth-tone appearance. The clay is mixed with water to achieve a uniform consistency, and other materials, such as hardeners, to increase strength or improve other properties.
The clay mixture is formed into tile shapes or sheets by hand or using a hydraulic press. The sheets are then left to dry in open air or controlled environments for a few days.
Kiln Firing the dried tiles at temperatures between 1000°C to 1150°C or 1832°F to 2102°F hardens the clay, intensifies the reddish colour, and partially vitrifies them, contributing to the strength and water resistance.
Finishing (if required), options are:
- Glazing: After applying a heavy clear glassy coating, the tiles are kiln-fired again
- Polishing: Unglazed surface polished for smoothness
- Sealing: A sealant may be applied to enhance water resistance and durability, especially for tiles intended for areas exposed to moisture.
Terracotta tiles used indoors will almost certainly be sealed if used for flooring and glazed if used for wall tiles in kitchens or bathrooms. Unless for specific reasons, all terracotta tiles that are expected to get wet and dirty should be sealed or glazed.
Cleaning Terracotta Tiles
Terracotta needs protection from staining and should be sealed or glazed. These protective coatings are durable but not impenetrable, so avoid using harsh chemicals such as strong acids or alkalines, or bleaches that may stain the tiles.
Regular Cleaning
Your worst enemy with these tiles is soap scum or grease, so always wipe them down with a squeegee after showering and use warm water with a pH-neutral soap (dish soap) to clean any contaminants as soon as possible.
A solution of dish soap in warm water is usually enough for these tiles, using a microfiber cloth or soft brush to avoid scratching the finish. Normally, a bucket of water with a few drops of dish soap is enough. For tougher stains, applying a little more soap or household cleaner may be required.
Deep Cleaning
For stubborn stains, a paste made by mixing baking soda and water can be used. Apply the paste, let it stand for a few minutes, then wipe it away with a soft brush or rag. Heavily soiled areas may require a commercial tile cleaner to fully recover.
Note: Always rinse terracotta tiles well after cleaning to avoid soap or cleaner buildup.
Cleaning Grout
If the tiles are well sealed, the grout should be no harder to clean than the rest of the tile. If the grout has started to become discoloured, use a small brush (toothbrush) to scrub a mixture of baking soda and water into the grout, then after a few minutes, brush it out while rinsing with fresh water.
On heavier stains, toothpaste often works well to clean and brighten the grout. If you must use bleach, use hydrogen peroxide with baking soda, not laundry bleach, which can discolour the grout.
Additional Tips
Sealing
- Sealing Terracotta Tiles: Terracotta tiles are porous and should be sealed to protect them from stains and moisture. Use a high-quality sealer recommended for terracotta. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and reapply as needed (usually every few years).
- Sealing Grout: Grout can also be sealed to prevent staining and make it easier to clean. Use a grout sealer and apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- No Harsh Cleaners: Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or acidic cleaners as they can damage the terracotta tiles and the grout.
Proper sealing of terracotta tiles is crucial to protect them from moisture and stains, ensuring they’ll last for decades.