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Ticknor Design Build | Catalyst Design + Photography -
Cotto Tierra 8x8
Plan ahead with 10–15% extra tile to cover natural variation and keep your project running smoothly.
SPECS
SPECS
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Actual Size: 7 7/8"x7 7/8"
- Thickness: 3/4"
- Finish: Unsealed
- Texture: Smooth | Slip Resistant
- 1 sq.ft: 2.25 pcs
- Variation: V2 (Slight Variation) - Shade, Tone & Size
INSTALLATION DETAILS
INSTALLATION DETAILS
GROUT
- Recommended: Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA (modern)
- Alternative: Mapei Saltillo Natural Gray (tonal/traditional)
Joint Size: 1/4" – 3/4"
Wider joints help accommodate natural size variation and keep lines visually straight.
Grout lines will be visible and are part of the overall look.
TRIM
Cotto does not include factory trim pieces.
Common options:
- Bullnose → soft edge transitions
- Coping → stair edges or thicker transitions
- Miter cut → clean 45° corners
- Exposed edge → natural, unfinished look
SEALING
SEALING
Cotto arrives unsealed and must be sealed before and after installation.
- Use penetrating sealers for proper absorption
- A top coat may be added depending on desired finish
Improper sealing can cause uneven drying or surface issues. Always test a small area first.
RESOURCES
RESOURCES
CARE OVERVIEW
- Clean regularly with a pH-neutral cleaner
- Avoid bleach, ammonia, or acidic products
- Wipe spills promptly
- Use rugs or pads in high-traffic areas
- Reseal as needed over time
GUIDES + DOWNLOADS
COTTO
Cotto Terracotta brings a more refined, grounded expression of natural clay. With a smoother surface and controlled variation, it offers warmth and durability with a more consistent, modern feel.
Cotto is crafted from natural clay using a pressing method that creates a denser, more uniform tile. Once formed, the tiles are kiln-fired to strengthen the material while maintaining its natural warmth.
This process results in a smoother, flatter surface than traditional Saltillo or terracotta pavers, making it more consistent underfoot. It offers natural slip resistance, but with less surface texture than more rustic terracotta styles.
Cotto arrives unsealed and requires sealing before and after installation.
Because it is denser than many traditional terracottas, Cotto absorbs less readily, but sealing is still required to protect against staining, moisture, and daily wear. The sealer selected will determine the final appearance, from a more natural matte finish to a subtle satin sheen.
Proper sealing is especially important in kitchens, bathrooms, covered exterior areas, and other spaces exposed to moisture or frequent use.
Cotto exhibits moderate variation with a more controlled and consistent appearance.
You can expect:
- Subtle variation in tone within a curated color range
- More uniform color distribution across the installation
- Slight variation in sizing and thickness with low deviation
- A smoother, flatter surface with limited texture
- Minor surface markings such as light indentations or handling marks
- Occasional small edge chips or slight irregularities
While more refined, variation is still present due to natural clay composition and kiln firing. These differences contribute to the material’s warmth without overwhelming the overall look.
Cotto Terracotta develops a more subtle patina over time compared to traditional or organic terracotta.
Due to its higher density and lower porosity, the surface is less reactive to moisture and wear, resulting in a slower, more controlled aging process. Depending on the sealer used and level of maintenance, the tile may gently deepen in tone or soften in appearance.
This makes Cotto a strong choice for spaces where you want warmth and natural character, with a more consistent long-term look.
Usage
Recommended
- Interior floors
- Bathrooms, sealed
- Kitchens & backsplashes
- Laundry rooms
- Mudrooms
- Entryways
- Decorative walls
- Fireplaces
- Covered patios
- Covered exterior walls
Use With Caution
- Showers, proper waterproofing + sealing required
- High-traffic wet areas
- Outdoor kitchens, sealed
- Exterior floors in mild climates
- Areas requiring frequent maintenance
Not Recommended
- Freeze-thaw climates
- Standing water, pools, or fountains
- Steam rooms
- Harsh chemicals
Recommended
- Decorative walls
- Retail feature walls
- Hospitality accent walls
- Restaurant walls
- Hotel lobby walls
- Office accent walls
- Fireplace surrounds
- Floors
- Covered exterior walls
- Commercial floors (mid to low traffic)
- Protected patio areas
Use With Caution
- High-traffic floors
- Wet commercial areas
- Covered outdoor commercial areas
Not Recommended
- Commercial kitchens
- Steam rooms
- Pools or fountains
- Freeze-thaw exterior floors
- Harsh chemicals
- De-icing salts
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