
Pressed
Pressed Terracotta offers a more controlled interpretation of Saltillo, combining natural warmth with a refined, consistent finish. Designed for spaces that want the look of terracotta with a more uniform appearance.
Pressed Terracotta is made from natural clay shaped using a controlled pressing process, creating a more consistent form than traditional Saltillo. The tiles are then kiln-fired to develop durability while maintaining the warmth of terracotta.
This method allows for a cleaner, more uniform appearance while still preserving the subtle variation that gives the material its character.
Pressed Terracotta is delivered sealed, giving it a finished surface that enhances durability and defines the final appearance.
The sealer protects the surface, enriches the natural tones, and contributes to a more consistent look across the installation. It also influences how the tile ages, especially in areas with frequent foot traffic or moisture exposure.
A maintenance top coat may be recommended over time depending on use, environment, and desired finish.
Pressed Terracotta offers a more controlled interpretation of Saltillo, with moderate variation and a more consistent overall appearance.
You can expect:
- Subtle to moderate variation in color within a more defined tonal range
- Slight variation in size and shape
- Minor surface markings such as light indentations or handling marks
- Occasional small edge variation or chips
- Paw prints
- Marks, lines or folds from the molding process
While more consistent, this material is still made from natural clay and will exhibit variation from tile to tile and between batches. These differences contribute to the warmth and authenticity of the final installation.
Pressed Terracotta develops a natural patina over time, similar to traditional Saltillo.
Because the tile is sealed, most of the aging occurs at the surface level and is influenced by the type of sealer used and how the space is maintained. Over time, the finish may soften, deepen in tone, or show subtle signs of use in higher-traffic areas.
With proper sealing and care, the tile will age evenly, creating a warm, lived-in look while maintaining its performance.
Each installation will evolve differently depending on use, environment, and the selected finish.
Usage
Recommended
- Interior floors
- Heated flooring systems (e.g. Ditra or similar)
- Mudrooms, laundry rooms, entryways
- Kitchen backsplashes & islands
- Bathroom floors
- Shower walls (requires proper waterproofing systems and compatible sealers)
- Fireplaces (surround & interior)
- Decorative walls
- Stair risers
- Covered patios
- Exterior walls (protected, no freeze exposure)
Use With Caution
- Exterior floors (patios & porches, sealed, no freeze exposure)
- Outdoor kitchens (floors & walls, sealed)
- Outdoor showers
- Areas requiring regular sealing & maintenance
Not Recommended
- Freeze-thaw climates (any freezing conditions)
- Standing water (pools, fountains, water features)
- Steam rooms
- Exposure to de-icing salts or harsh outdoor chemicals
- Shower floors (possible with proper sealing, but high maintenance and not advised)
Recommended
- Retail and office spaces
- Restaurants and bars (non-kitchen areas)
- Hospitality spaces (hotels, lobbies, common areas)
- Decorative and feature walls
- Fireplace surrounds
- Interior floors (moderate-traffic environments)
- Covered exterior walls
- Protected patio areas
Use With Caution
- High-traffic commercial floors (requires maintenance planning)
- Outdoor commercial applications (sealed, no freeze exposure)
- Areas exposed to frequent moisture
Not Recommended
- Commercial kitchens (floors or walls)
- Freeze-thaw environments
- Areas with standing water or prolonged saturation
- Exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals or industrial agents
- Steam rooms