• Flexible tile adhesive, suitable for natural stone

• Flexible grout

  • Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA or Saltillo grout

• Grout haze remover

• Grout sponges

• 3/4” Grout trowel

• Tile spacers (1/8” to 1/2” recommended)

• Shims

• Construction level

• Carefully inspect your order.

• It is your responsibility to evaluate the product's suitability before installation.

• Clay Imports will not be liable for materials that have been cut or installed.

• Once installed, we cannot accept claims regarding any discrepancies in color or size.

• If any tiles show imperfections, set them aside for cuts instead of installing them.

• ENSURE that your tile is pre-sealed.

  • Although pre-sealed tiles do not need additional sealing, using a standard “grout release” can enhance the efficiency of
    grout application.

• For “distressed” Saltillo terracotta tiles, which have a heavily textured, pitted surface, be aware that grout will bond
  permanently to the surface texture. Keep this in mind when choosing your grout color.

• Tape measure

• Pencil

• Diamond blade wet tile saw for cutting

• Safety glasses

• Gloves

• Buckets

• Rags

• Arrange tiles in the desired pattern to determine cuts needed and spacing for grout.

• Prepare your grid. Based on your specific installation, determine how to best design your layout and draw a grid on the installation
  surface.

• Confirm adequate tile amount, including extras for unforeseen circumstances.

• If you require additional pieces, please make sure to have them before starting the installation process. Please note that any
  additional pieces may differ in color from your original order.

• Saltillo terracotta tile, as a product of clay and natural materials, is subjected to color and shade variations and it is recommended
  to mix the tiles from the different cases.

  • Before installation, we advise a blending of the tiles to create a more aesthetic appearance.

• As a clay-based product, there may be clay residue on the surface. Clean all Saltillo terracotta tiles with a cloth to remove any clay
  residue before installation.

• Please be sure to read product usage instructions on all materials used for your installation.

• For safety purposes, we recommend that you wear safety gear when installing tile. Gloves, safety glasses, and close-toed shoes can
  prevent injury.

• If installing tiles in an exterior, wet location, or cold climate, proper installation is crucial. This entails specialized waterproofing, a
  topcoat sealer, and regular maintenance to ensure durability and longevity.

• Ensure that the surface is well-prepared. The setting surface must be thoroughly cleaned and dried. Avoid installing over oily or
  polished concrete, unsecured surfaces, or excessive paint overspray.

• Check your cutting saw to confirm that you're using the correct blade for the material. We strongly suggest using a high-quality,
  continuous diamond blade wet saw. If you notice excessive chipping, it may be time to upgrade your blade.

SETTING MATERIALS

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• The substrate and setting materials should be chosen based on your specific situation. Consult with your installer, contractor, or
  architect to determine the right options for you. . This product is compatible with high-grade, flexible thinset.

• Be cautious not to apply thinset in areas that are larger than what can be set within a few minutes.

• Protect your workspace. Setting materials can stain your walls and potentially harm your countertop or other surfaces near the
  installation area. Cover all areas that are susceptible to damage with a durable, protective construction covering.

• Warping and varied flatness of terracotta tiles is to be expected. To accommodate , use a minimum 3/4 inch mortar bed to ensure
  full contact between the tile and subsurface, preventing any hollow spaces. If you choose to exclude warped pieces to minimize
  waste, use those for cuts along the perimeter of the installation area.

GROUT

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• It is always recommended to apply a grout test on a loose piece of tile before full grout application.

• Dark-colored grouts that contain pigments can penetrate the surface of the tile and result in permanent staining. We advise
  against using dark-colored grouts.

• To prevent grout from sticking during installations, use a grout release. Test grout in an inconspicuous area to ensure desired
  results.

• We recommend referring to grout manufacturer guidelines.

• Wet Areas: We recommend filling any holes with grout using the traditional technique applying grout to the face of the tile to
  avoid water permeating the tile.

Grout Bag Method

• If your preference is to leave the natural surface voids unfilled, try the “grout bag” technique.

• First, mix your grout according to the manufacturer's instructions and fill the grout bag with the mixed grout.

• Hold the bag at a 45-degree angle and apply pressure to force the grout out of the bag and into the joints between the tiles.

• Be sure to fill the joints completely, and use a grout float to smooth out the surface of the grout.

• Wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge.

• Buff the tiles with a clean cloth to remove any remaining haze.

• Allow the grout to set for the recommended amount of time.

GROUT JOINT

Size variation are normal for handmade terracotta tiles due to differences in clay density and firing temperatures. To manage this,
although, grout joint spacers can be utilized, avoid using spacers and instead create a grid on the installation surface to center the tiles
evenly.

• SALTILLO TERRACOTTA | Joint spacing can be as wide as 3/4” and as narrow as 1/4”. Generally, smaller joint sizes are used with
  smaller tiles (6” and under) and tend to look more modern.

  • A grout line that is too narrow may lead to chipping at stress points as the grout dries.

  • Choosing narrower grout joints can accentuate the tile's natural variations, potentially revealing some inconsistencies in the
    alignment of the grout lines.

  • Opting for a wider grout joint can better accommodate the size differences in the tiles, allowing for easier placement and
    straighter lines. Though some slight variations may still be apparent, they will generally be less noticeable.

  • When installing tiles on floors, it is advisable to use wider grout lines to improve traction and reduce the risk of slipping.

The tiles should be thoroughly cleaned prior to grouting. After the tiles are clean and dry, apply 1 to 2 coats of grout release to the tile
surface.

Glue the tiles on a flat, dry surface with a high quality, flexible tile adhesive.

• Use a trowel with recesses of 10-20 mm (1/2 - 3/4in).

• Ensure that the adhesive is applied to the entire surface of the back of the tile.

• Remove excess glue from between tiles quickly.

• Glue will require at least 24 hours to dry properly.

Grout should be applied to the tile within 1 hour of applying grout release. Always apply grout to a loose sample tile prior to full
application. Once you have confirmed that the grout is suitable, begin applying to the surface. Note that this method of installation
will result in grout filling the surface pits of the tile. (For alternative, See Grout Bag Method)

• Only apply small sections of no greater than 6 square feet at a time.

• Grout should cleaned from the surface with a damp sponge.

• Grout should not dry on the tile surface for longer than 10 minutes.

• For best results, wipe away excess grout at an angle to the tile lines.

• Continue cleaning until only a mild residue remains on the surface.

• Caution not to remove too much grout from the surface joints.

Following grout application, clean the tile surface thoroughly with a damp cloth. Clean the surface until all grout residue has been
removed. Allow to completely dry.

Clean the tile surface with water after bonding using a sponge and / or cloth. Wring the sponge every time while cleaning. Avoid
getting tiles too wet as this may affect later steps. Allow the installation to dry completely.

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Allow the installation area to completely dry and do not walk or cover the surface until confirmed dry.

• Avoid using coverings that have adhesive, rubber, or silicone, as these materials can adhere to the sealer. Opt for drop cloths,
  Ram board, or other protective materials that do not require tape or adhesive.

• If construction is ongoing, be sure to cover the floor adequately, as construction dust can settle into the pores if it is not properly
  protected.

Evenly coat the entire area.

• If your sponge starts to deteriorate, replace it, as debris from a sponge can get stuck to your tile.

Lightly dip a portion of a big sponge into the bucket, only allowing one side of the sponge to absorb sealer.

Begin wiping the installed tile with the dampened side of the sponge.

Pour your sealer into a clean plastic bucket. Make sure to keep about an inch of depth of sealer in the bucket.

Confirm that your grout is 100% dry.

• In most cases, grout will dry fully 1-2 days following installation.

Depending on the type of grout used, you may have to apply extra sealant to the joints.

• Conventional, sanded grouts are very absorbent.

Allow the installation area to completely dry and do not walk or cover the surface until confirmed dry.

• Avoid using coverings that have adhesive, rubber, or silicone, as these materials can adhere to the sealer. Opt for drop cloths,
  Ram board, or other protective materials that do not require tape or adhesive.

• If construction is ongoing, be sure to cover the floor adequately, as construction dust can settle into the pores if it is not properly
  protected.

Once the installed tile is completely dry, safeguard your terracotta with our recommended protective sealant, Polish Top Coat.

• Apply 1-2 coats of our finishing sealer for a crystal-clear, high-gloss finish.

• The Polish Top Coat sealer will reduce the overall maintenance of your installation.

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Optional: . After regular wear, you can strip the worn Polish Top Coat with our specialized Polish Remover. Then, rejuvenate your gloss
terracotta's shine by reapplying the Polish Top Coat. Note: Polish Remover is designed exclusively for removing Polish Top Coat.

Gloss-sealed terracotta tiles are pre-sealed, providing a high level of protection, which makes additional sealing optional. However, for
outdoor or wet-areas, applying an extra layer of sealer after installation and grouting can enhance protection. This additional sealer
serves as a protective barrier, providing longevity for the tiles.

Regularly cleaning your tile is essential to maintain its beauty and prolong its lifespan.

• Regular Cleaning: Clay tile should be swept, dusted or vacuumed regularly to keep it clean. Use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum
  cleaner with a hard floor setting. You can also use a damp mop with warm water and a mild cleaner to remove any dirt or grime.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid bleach or ammonia, on clay tile. These can damage or discolor the tile. Instead, use a pH-neutral
  cleaner. We recommend soap or a household, non-acidic cleaner. This will help remove any dirt, grime, or stains that may
  accumulate over time.

  • Use a soft cloth or mop to avoid scratching the surface. Simply dampen the cloth or mop with the cleaning solution and gently
    wipe the tile in a circular motion.

  • For tougher stains, you may need to use a more abrasive cleaner, but be sure to test an inconspicuous area to not damage the
    tile.

  • Make sure to remove any residue from the cleaning solution. This will help prevent any build-up that could dull the tile's
    appearance.

• Clean Up Spills Immediately: Clean up any spills or stains on clay tile immediately to prevent staining. Use a soft cloth and warm
  water or a pH-neutral cleaner to remove any spills.

• Prevent Scratches: Clay tile is durable but can still be scratched by sharp or abrasive objects. Avoid dragging heavy furniture across
  tile, and use furniture pads to prevent scratches.

• Use Rugs: Use mats or rugs in high-traffic areas or in areas where dirt or moisture is likely to accumulate, like entryways or kitchens.
  This can help prevent wear and tear on clay tile and keep it looking new. However, be cautious with rug pads, as high temperatures
  can cause rubber padding or dots to stick. We would recommend felt or cloth pads.

• Lime pops: Small lime pops, or divots sometimes appear on the surface of terracotta tiles post-installation, this is a natural and
  normal characteristic of handmade Saltillo tiles that does not affect the durability of the tile. In some cases, a professional can gently
  grind down the lime pops using a diamond-tipped tool. This should be done carefully to avoid damaging the surrounding tiles.
  Alternatively, lightly sanding the affected area and resealing it can often revitalize the spots.

• Wet area: For tiles installed in wet areas such as shower surrounds, flooring, and exterior applications, we recommend applying a
  protective sealant approximately once per year. Although not required, sealant provides an extra layer of protection by sealing
  micropores to keep your tile in pristine condition.