Wall Tile

Spanish tile, also called Mexican tile, is a term that is used broadly, to describe some tiling materials that range from hand made ceramic tiles to saltillo tile. These tiles sport traditional Mexican and Spanish designs. You can choose from various sizes and styles, and Mexican tile will add a warm, southern flair to the home where you install it.

Saltillo tiles are easily the most common of Spanish and Mexican tiles that can be found today. They are made from clay that is pressed by hand when it is still raw. They have a rough and earthy look, almost like that of Terra cotta. The coloring of saltillo tiles ranges from deep orange to deep yellow, and you can find them in many shapes, from squares to hexagons and other patterns.

Since they are formed with clay with traditional methods used, saltillo tiles tend to be more porous than other types of ceramic tiles. So you will always want to seal them with a top quality sealant that will protect them from spills and stains, otherwise they will soak them up. You will need to re-seal them periodically, as well. Rather than being a thankless chore, however, the refinishing will give your tile a new look, like when you polish hardwood, and will keep it looking new for a longer time period than is possible with other ceramic tiles.

The town of Saltillo in Mexico is the place that gives saltillo tile its name. They are still manufactured there, to this day. If you purchase authentic saltillo, and not a look-alike type, you may even see an animal footprint in some of the tiles. These are fun and curious pieces, so put those tiles where they will get noticed. These imperfections actually make your tiles more enjoyable and rustic.

Saltillo tiles vary in appearance from some of the other popular Mexican tile forms. Each of the other types has its own distinctive markings and idiosyncrasies, too. Mission tile is hand made, and the designs are created with colored marble dust on top of Portland cement. The name comes from Spanish missions, where the designs were first popularized. They usually come in sets of four, and when you put them together, they make a lovely larger design. Mission tiles, like saltillo tiles, are nearly impermeable to wear and very durable, and are excellent additions to countertops and floors.

Another tile that is related to saltillo tiles is the Talavera tile. These are made by painting designs by hand onto ceramic tiles, which are then glazed and fired. These tiles are also resistant to water damage and wear, and are very cost-efficient, especially compared to other options in tile. Talavera tiles are often found in spas, pools, bathrooms, showers and backsplashes. You can get this type of tile in a custom design, as well, making your project one of a kind.

Whether you decide to go with Talavera, Mission or saltillo tile, each variety is tough to beat for helping you create a southwestern traditional air in any room in your home.