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A new presentation we posted today discussing some of the common issues we have discovered with our clients over the years regarding their Saltillo, Mexican and Terracotta tile floors.
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One of the most common issues we face with our clients is that they are unaware of what type of tile they truly have. TIP #1: Big box home improvement stores are not going to have authentic clay tiles. TIP #2: Saltillo tiles are produced exclusively in the town of Saltillo, Mexico.
Authentic Saltillo Process vs Terracotta Saltillo tiles are shaped by hand from naturally occurring clay in Saltillo, Mexico. They are dried in the sun and they are later fired in a kiln. In comparison, Terracotta meaning “burnt earth” in Italian, typically will refer to any sort of natural clay formed into tiles, dried, then fired in a kiln.
Terracotta tiles are mostly made in one of two ways: Extruded (machine made) Hand made Either method will serve well providing the material is properly installed and homeowners have been educated as to the unique requirements in caring for it.
Common Misconceptions about Saltillo Tile Maintenance Typically, a high gloss finish on the Saltillo tile is commonplace. Unfortunately homeowners are usually not well educated by the installer on the proper care and suggested scheduled maintenance. We find that most of our clients were under the mistaken opinion that these tile floors can merely be cleaned and resealed. Orlando Stone Works has observed many clients being duped into believing this and having their Saltillo floors made even worse, requiring costly repairs to rectify this issue.
What To Do When Your Saltillo, Terracotta or Mexican Tile Becomes Soiled?? It will require stripping the existing sealer off, cleaning the tiles and then resealing. The labor and corresponding expense required in stripping these tiles is costly. The chemicals and sealer are caustic. Orlando Stone Works Saltillo cleaning, sealing and restoration process will restore the ambiance to any southwestern flavor home.
Recommended Maintenance Procedures From The Pros. To extend the life of Saltillo floors and keep them looking like new, we strongly recommend most clients request a yearly maintenance service. We have found that most clients actually save money with this process and have kept their Saltillo floors looking like new, year after year. Orlando Stone Work delivers on our 17 years in the business and we provide the absolute best processes to ensure our clients are proud of their stone flooring and other surfaces year round.
