As with all things fashion, flooring trends come and go, and then sometimes come back. Terracotta, back in the 80s, was in fashion. In recent years it has been surpassed by other types of pavements, among which are the different types of natural stone.
But very recently, I’ve noticed a slight resurgence in its popularity. If it is indeed on the way back then it might help to know how to treat it. There are actually two main ways to seal terracotta tiles: traditional and synthetic.
traditional oil and wax
Traditionally the method used was to pre-seal the tiles with boiled linseed oil, this may require several coats. Usually this is done before grouting. Once the grouting has been completed and all grout residue has been removed and the grout has been allowed to fully cure (may take a few days), it is finished with a surface wax, such as a beeswax paste from neutral colour.
There are some advantages and disadvantages of this traditional system:
advantage:
- Beautiful, rich, warm tones.
- natural wax look
Disadvantages:
- Not the easiest approach to take, oil and wax application can take a bit of practice and can be tricky.
- Not everyone likes the dark tone created with this system
- Maintenance is a bit tricky; wax wears out quickly and needs to be buffed out frequently. It also needs to be recharged quite regularly.
- After a while, the wax will build up and start to turn into a sticky film that attracts dirt and needs to be skimmed down to the surface.
- again a messy job, before reapplying fresh wax and starting the cycle once more.
- Oil and wax are not the best sealants
synthetic method
There are many synthetic alternatives to the oil and wax approach. These products are generally much easier to apply, and the resulting maintenance is often less of a hassle as well. For example, Aqua Mix Seal & Finish Low Sheen; It is a combined sealer that is easy to apply and has a low gloss finish, so it is two products in one, it is also water-based which makes it very pleasant to use.
The application is basically the same; this product replaces the oil in the other system (but, unlike oil, it also leaves a satin shine). One or more coats can be applied prior to grouting, then after cleaning and curing a wax alternative such as Floor Shine & Hardener can be applied over the top for a more waxy look if desired. In my experience, most people go for the extra “buff” and that’s not a bad thing, as it also serves as a sacrificial coat, replacing the wear sealant.
advantage:
- Easy to use and apply
- don’t mess
- Easy to maintain (no need to disassemble before reapplying a recharge)
Disadvantages:
- Less of an aged look
- The natural color of the tiles is see through (this is a pro or con, depending on your point of view and personal taste)
Whichever system you choose will ultimately depend on your personal preference and exactly how much you are willing to commit to in terms of ongoing maintenance. But, whatever you decide, make sure you seal your terracotta with something!
