FAQ

Can I use Mexican talavera tiles outdoors?

Yes, tiles can be used outdoors; however, there are important limitations to consider:

    • Pool Environments: We do not recommend using tiles in pools or areas where they will be submerged in water. The chemicals used in pool maintenance can degrade the clay and significantly reduce their lifespan. Tiles may be safely used above the waterline or around pools, but prolonged exposure to pool water should be avoided.
    • Freezing Temperatures: Our tiles are not frost-proof. Exposure to temperatures below freezing can cause them to chip or crack. If your area experiences regular freezing conditions during winter, we recommend limiting tile use to indoor or covered spaces.

      By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the longevity and durability of your decorative tiles.

       

      Can I use tiles on the floor?

      Yes, you can use tiles on the floor! For large flooring projects, we recommend using Saltillo or Lincoln flooring tiles.

      If you’d like to incorporate decorative tiles, we suggest using them as accents rather than covering the entire floor. Decorative tiles have a glazed finish, which can make them slippery when wet. However, 2-inch decorative tiles can be an excellent choice for shower floors because their smaller size and the surrounding grout provide added grip, reducing slipperiness.

      By combining these options, you can create a stylish and functional floor design!

       

      Why Do I See Small Cracks in My Tiles?

      The small cracks you’re seeing are called crazing, and it is a normal characteristic of Mexican tiles, especially handmade ones. Crazing refers to fine surface cracks in the glaze, which develop over time and add to the unique charm of the tiles.

      This process can be accelerated by large temperature swings, so it’s important to avoid exposing the tiles to very low or temperatures. These cracks are not a defect; rather, they are an inherent and expected part of the handmade nature of the product. Eventually, all glazed tiles will develop craze lines, which enhance their rustic and authentic appeal.

      You can minimize damage caused by crazing by sealing the tile using a granite-level sealer. When applying the sealer, ensure you wipe it away immediately after application. The goal is to allow the sealer to penetrate the microcracks without leaving residue on the surface. Leaving the sealer on the tile’s surface can create a foggy appearance, diminishing the vibrant colors and intricate designs of the tile. Proper sealing helps preserve the beauty and longevity of your tiles.

       

      What Type of Grout Should I Use for My Tiles?

      For decorative tiles, we recommend using non-sanded grout with a light gray color and a 1/8-inch thick grout line. You can choose other grout colors, but it’s important to use non-sanded grout for this type of tile.

      For flooring tiles, we suggest sanded grout with a light gray color and a 1/2-inch wide grout line. Sanded grout is stronger and more durable than non-sanded grout, making it the best choice for floor tiles and the larger joints between them.

      Following these guidelines will help ensure the best results for your tiling project.

       

      How Should I Care for My Tiles?

      Flooring Tiles:

      All our flooring tiles are made of clay, which is highly absorbent in its raw form. Proper sealing is essential to protect the tiles and ensure their longevity.

      1. Before Installation:
        • Apply one layer of sealer to the tiles before installation to prevent the grout from being absorbed into the tiles.
      2. After Installation:
        • Apply at least two additional layers of sealer to both the tile and the grout.
      3. Testing the Seal:
        • Periodically, you can test if the sealer is still effective by placing a drop of water on the tile. If the water is absorbed, it’s time to reseal the tile. The water should remain as a drop on the surface without being absorbed.
        • Resealing Process:
          • If resealing is required but the tile is dirty:
            • Use water pressure to clean the tile. Ensure the tile is completely dry all the way through before resealing.
            • If water pressure doesn’t clean the tile sufficiently, you may need to sand the surface to remove dirt before resealing.

        Decorative Tiles:

        Decorative tiles require gentler care to maintain their appearance and prevent damage.

        1. Cleaning:
          • Use non-abrasive cleaners such as soap and water.
          • Avoid abrasive cleaners, as they can accelerate the crazing process (fine surface cracks in the glaze), which is normal but may occur more quickly with harsh cleaning products.

        By following these care guidelines, you can ensure your tiles remain beautiful and functional for years to come.

         

        What Type of Sealer Should I Use?

        We recommend using a wet look, water-based sealer. You can choose the gloss level based on the amount of shine you prefer. Higher gloss levels provide more shine, while lower gloss levels offer a more subdued finish.

        A few important tips to consider:

        • Penetration: The more penetrating the sealer, the better it will protect the tile.
        • Slip Resistance: Water-based sealers are generally less slippery than oil-based or lacquer-based sealers, making them a safer choice for flooring applications.

        By choosing the right sealer, you can enhance the beauty of your tiles while providing long-lasting protection.

         

        Can I Order Tiles with a Custom Design?

        Yes, you can order tiles with a custom design! Here are the details for placing a custom tile order:

        1. Order Requirements:
          • Custom tiles must be ordered by the box.
          • Tiles must be ordered in multiples of the following quantities, with a minimum of one box:
            • 2-inch tiles: 400 per box
            • 3-inch tiles: 200 per box
            • 4.25-inch tiles: 90 per box
            • 6-inch tiles: 50 per box
        2. Payment and Lead Time:
          • Custom orders must be paid in full before the order can be placed.
          • The lead time for custom tile orders is approximately 6-8 weeks.
        3. Contact Us:
          • Please call us at (805) 484-7422 to discuss your design and place your order.
        4. Important Notes:
          • All sales on custom tiles are final.
          • Due to the handmade nature of the tiles, the final product may vary slightly in color or design.

        We look forward to helping you bring your custom tile design to life!