Which Terracotta Tile Is Right For You?

We’ll compare our terracotta options, so you can find the right tile for your next project

Terracotta tile is making a major comeback as the "it" tile of the moment, according to The New York Times — and we couldn't agree more! While terracotta has always been a classic, its timeless appeal is more relevant than ever.

We offer over six types of terracotta tiles, all handmade in Mexico, each with unique characteristics to suit different project needs. 

• The most popular: Saltillo Natural Terracotta
• The strongest: Cotto Terracotta
• The most natural: Organic Terracotta
• The most consistent: Reverse Terracotta
• The most refined: D'Hanis Red Terracotta
• The most consistent: Pressed Terracotta

While these tiles may appear alike (or, to some, not at all) and possess several common features, recognizing their unique differences is important for selecting the ideal terracotta tile for your project. Whether your vision leans towards a sleek, modern look or a more rustic, textured feel, our collection offers a variety of options to suit every style.

So, how do you choose the right one for your project?

Here’s a brief breakdown of what to consider:

1. Surface Texture: Some terracotta tiles have a smooth finish for a clean, contemporary look, while others have a more textured surface that adds depth and character. Consider the style you're going for and whether you want the surface to have a polished or natural feel.
2. Durability and Maintenance: Different types of terracotta tiles offer varying levels of durability. Some require sealing for extra protection, while others may need more maintenance to keep their look fresh over time. Be sure to factor in how much upkeep you're willing to do.
3. Color and Variation: Terracotta tiles typically offer rich, earthy tones, but color variation can differ between styles. Some tiles have subtle shifts in color, while others may have more pronounced differences, depending on the firing process.
4. Installation Areas: Think about where the tiles will be installed. Whether it’s a high-traffic area, a wet space like a bathroom, or a more decorative space like a feature wall, we have options that will stand up to the challenge.

Our range of handmade terracotta tiles gives you all the flexibility to create the perfect look for your home or project. If you need more guidance on which type works best for your needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

Saltillo Tile

Saltillo Tile is a timeless and highly popular terracotta option, known for its traditional craftsmanship and historical significance. With a moderate durability level, Saltillo is less dense than other terracotta tiles, which makes it more porous and prone to requiring some additional maintenance. Although all of our Saltillo tiles come pre-sealed, for most finishes, we recommend applying a finish seal after installation to enhance their longevity and maintain a clean appearance.

Key Features:

• Traditional Mexican Craftsmanship: Saltillo tiles have been used for over 100 years in homes across the United States and Mexico, cementing their place as a beloved classic.
• Variety of Textures and Finishes: Available in two textures and a range of sealed finishes, from high gloss to matte, as well as multiple size and shape options. This ensures you can find the perfect match for your design.
• Rich Color Variation: Saltillo tiles have the greatest color variation among our terracotta options, ranging from deep reds to golden tones. This dynamic coloring adds warmth and character to any space.
• Irregular Surface: Embrace the handmade charm of Saltillo, which often includes natural pitting, chips, and surface scratches for an authentic, rustic feel.
• Suitable for Mild Climates: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations, though we recommend avoiding use in wet areas. While gloss-sealed Saltillo can be used in showers with proper care and maintenance, we suggest considering other options like glazed terracotta or glazed clay for those seeking low-maintenance alternatives.

Saltillo Tile remains one of our most popular options due to its rich history, aesthetic versatility, and unique, rustic charm. Whether you're renovating your home or embarking on a new project, Saltillo's enduring beauty and character are sure to make an impact.

D'Hanis Red Satin Terracotta

D’hanis Red Terracotta Tile is our most refined terracotta, designed for those who appreciate a more predictable and uniform appearance while still wanting the authentic warmth of clay. Characterized by deep, rich red tones, D’hanis Red is consistent in both color and sheen, offering a sleek and sophisticated look.

Unlike our other terracotta options, D’hanis Red is flatter, smoother, and less varied, making it the ideal choice for those seeking a more streamlined, cohesive aesthetic. With its mild tone variations, this tile maintains the charm of handmade terracotta without the pronounced imperfections.

Key Features:

• Refined Look: Perfect for those who prefer a clean, uniform appearance while still showcasing the beauty of terracotta.
• Rich Red Hue: The deep red color is consistent and vibrant, offering a timeless, elegant look.
• Smooth and Flat: D’hanis Red is smoother and flatter than other terracotta tiles, ensuring a more polished finish.
• Ridged Edges and Corners: These contribute to a crisp, refined edge after installation, adding to the clean, streamlined look.
• Indoor and Covered Outdoor Applications: Ideal for indoor use, and suitable for covered outdoor areas, such as patios and porches.

Many customers who love the classic feel of Saltillo tile but prefer a more controlled color palette find D’hanis Red to be the perfect choice. Its consistent, deep red hue and smooth texture make it a versatile option for a variety of spaces.

Organic Terracotta Tile

Organic terracotta floor at the Clay Residency in San Miguel de Allende.

Our Organic Terracotta Tile is the epitome of natural beauty, offering an authentic, handmade aesthetic that pays homage to traditional Mexican architecture. This tile is ideal for those who appreciate the unique, evolving patina that handmade terracotta develops over time.

With an intentionally unrefined appearance, Organic Terracotta celebrates the charm of imperfections. Expect visible variations in size, shape, and texture, including mild chipping, irregular edges, surface scratches, and natural pits — all characteristics that tell the story of its handmade origins.

Key Features:

• Natural Aesthetic: The tile’s rough, handmade look embraces its organic imperfections.
• Sealing Required: Organic Terracotta is sold unsealed, allowing you to select a sealer that suits your project’s needs (you can find sealer options in our store).
• Eco-Friendly: Seasonally produced, sun-dried, and fired at a lower temperature, Organic Terracotta is the most sustainable option in our collection, with the least carbon emissions.
• Indoor and Outdoor Use: Perfect for both indoor and outdoor flooring, particularly in mild climates.

Organic Terracotta is ideal for those who value a more rustic, natural look and are drawn to the tactile charm of handmade products. Over time, its surface will only become more beautiful, developing a unique patina that enhances its character.

Reverse Terracotta

Reverse Terracotta is a unique, extruded terracotta tile crafted in a similar process to breeze blocks. Its non-porous structure makes it durable and easy to maintain, though sealing is required to protect and enhance its surface.

Designed with versatility in mind, each tile features two distinct faces - one smooth and one textured - offering flexibility in design and installation. Whether used indoors or outdoors, on walls or floors, Reverse Terracotta adapts to a range of applications when properly installed.

Available in a single size, it offers a consistent look with minimal to no color variation, making it ideal for creating clean, cohesive spaces. With its durability, aesthetic flexibility, and low-maintenance nature, Reverse Terracotta is a stylish and functional choice for modern design.

Key Features:

• Versatile Design: Choose between a smooth or textured face for different aesthetic looks.
• Durable & Low Maintenance: Non-porous structure makes it easy to clean and maintain, though sealing is required for long-lasting performance.
• Consistent Look: Available in a single size with minimal to no color variation for cohesive, modern designs.
• Indoor & Outdoor Use: Suitable for a variety of applications, including walls, floors, and both indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Sleek & Modern Aesthetic: Ideal for creating clean lines and minimalist designs, adding a touch of contemporary style to any space.

Design Juliana Lupacchino | Photo Kathryn Ann Waller

Cotto Tile

Cotto terracotta tile is our most durable option, known for its exceptional density and strength. It is pressed denser than any other terracotta tile and fired at significantly higher temperatures. This unique combination of compression and high firing results in a dense, sturdy product that can withstand a variety of conditions.

One of the standout features of Cotto is that it does not require sealing — a rare quality in terracotta tiles. Unlike other tiles that need sealing to protect against moisture and stains, Cotto’s high density makes it naturally resistant to these issues. However, applying a finish seal after installation can help maintain cleanliness and ease of upkeep, especially in high-traffic areas.

Ideal Applications:

• Indoor and Outdoor Installations: Perfect for mild and moderate climates, as well as outdoor spaces.
• Wet Areas: Cotto tiles are highly resistant to moisture, making them an excellent choice for wet areas like shower floors, patios, and poolside decks.

Cotto is available in a range of beautiful, earthy colors, each with slight tone variations for a more natural, dynamic look. Available colors include:

• Tierra (a rich, reddish-brown)
• Umber (a deep, dark brown)
• Sienna (a warm, golden-brown)
• Dune (a light, sandy tone)

Of all our terracotta options, Cotto is the least likely to patina or fade over time, ensuring its color stays vibrant for years.

Pressed Red or Brown Terracotta

Red pressed terracotta floor at Fox Mountaint Retreat | Build by Noai Building Co.

Pressed Terracotta brings a distinct charm to any space, combining the consistency of modern manufacturing with the soul of traditional craftsmanship. The pressing process creates a smoother surface than natural terracotta, lending a more refined appearance while still preserving the warmth and earthy qualities of the clay.

Available in two organic colors, red and brown, Pressed Terracotta offers a clean, yet authentic look. While the color tends to be uniform, the handmade nature of the process introduces subtle variations, ensuring each tile is unique. Minor chips, cracks, and surface imperfections are not flaws but rather contribute to the tile’s character, celebrating the beauty of imperfection.

These natural textures and nuances reflect the artisanal nature of Pressed Terracotta, making it an excellent choice for those who wish to add a touch of handmade character to their space.

Key Features:

• Refined Surface: Smoother than natural terracotta, offering a more polished appearance while retaining the warmth and character of clay.
• Unique, Handmade Quality: Each tile is subtly different due to the handmade process, with minor imperfections adding to its charm.
• Color Options: Available in two organic colors — red and brown — with slight variations that enhance its natural beauty.
• Timeless Appeal: Ideal for adding a rustic yet sophisticated feel to any room, embracing the beauty of natural, artisanal craftsmanship.
• Durability: While slightly smoother than natural terracotta, Pressed Terracotta retains excellent durability for both residential and commercial spaces.

To wrap things up, when deciding between Clay Import’s terracotta tile options, keep in mind that:

Cotto
Cotto is the densest option making it the most durable and far less likely to chip or fade over time than any other options. Its rough texture provides a lot of traction making it ideal for interior and exterior floors.  

Saltillo
Natural Terracotta, commonly know as Saltillo, is a classic favorite that has withstood the test of time. It’s highly varied in color and available in many sizes and shapes. Although it’s presealed, the sheen and color will patina over time.  

D’hanis
D'Hanis Red Satin Terracotta is designed to include the features of original D’hanis, Texas tile. Its higher density production process results in a relatively flat floor with minimal size variation. Color range is limited to only shades of dark red.  

Organic
Organic Terracotta, is our most natural option with a less refined, more seasoned look and feel. Unlike Saltillo, which has variation in color from tile to tile, and even within the same tile, Organic has high variation in shade, meaning that the tiles stay within the same color range, but vary greatly in tone.

Pressed 
Pressed Terracotta is a pressed terracotta, hence the name, with low color variation and an semi-smooth satin finish. Two color options, Red and Brown are great neutrals, seamlessly blending warm tones with minimal variation in color and texture.

Reverse Terracotta
Reverse Terracotta is a versatile, extruded tile with a non-porous structure that ensures durability and easy maintenance. Available in two finishes, smooth and textured, it offers flexibility in design for both indoor and outdoor applications. With minimal color variation and a consistent size, Reverse Terracotta is perfect for creating clean, modern spaces. Sealing is required, but its low-maintenance nature makes it an excellent choice for functional and stylish designs.

Final Notes

Keep in mind that these handmade tiles will exhibit natural variations, which are inherent traits of their natural materials. These variations in color, texture and sheen are not defects but rather a natural part of the product. We highly recommend ordering Natural Terracotta and Speciality Terracotta samples before making a final purchase to confirm and appreciate these natural variations in each tile.

Finally, we recommend taking a look at our Clay Care products. These maintenance items have been carefully tested with our products, and they are designed to preserve your tiles' beauty, ensuring their longevity and durability. From sealers to cleaners, purchasing these maintenance items together with your tiles not only simplifies your order but also prepares you to enjoy your tiles for a long time.

We hope this article helps you find the right tile for your space. And remember, if you have any questions or require more information, don't hesitate to reach out to us at contact@clayimports.com