Terracotta
Unglazed and softer than orders types of tile,
terracotta is made from extruded or hand-formed red clay. It's
available in a number of shapes and sizes, from smalll hexagons
to large squares. Colours range from dusky ochres to oranges and
pinks through to cream. Many terracotta tiles are only suitable
for indoor uses they absorb water. If used outside, the water
may freeze ang cause the tile to crack.
Terracotta tiles are most popular in country
homes because of their rustic, continental appearance. They are
mainly used in kitchensnd conservatories.
Terracotta tiles require a thick bed of adhesive when installing,
particularly if they are hand-made as the tiles in the batch may
vary in thickness. Terracotta tiles are very porous and must be
finished with linseed oil ang waxed for protection before grounting.
Oil should be applied to a dust-free-surface and the floor should
be waxed once a week in the first month to built up a smooth and
hard-wearning surface.
Man-made terracotta tiles are less expensive than natural-terracotta
tiles. man made tiles also come pre-sealed and are therefore less
expensive to lay.
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