How to Lay & Seal Saltillo Tile

Saltillo tile originates in Saltillo, Mexico. This terra cotta Mexican tile is made from hand-shaped natural clay. Homeowners wishing to add a warm and traditional feel and look to their home opt to install Saltillo tile. The varied shapes and colored contours featured within individual Saltillo tiles give the space a rustic and earthy appeal. Laying Saltillo tile is similar to laying ceramic, slate or other types of tile.

• 1

  Snap a chalk line to create two intersecting lines that are running out from the center of each side. This creates four even squares on the surface of the subfloor.

• 2

  Spread a 1/4-inch layer of thinset mortar onto the subfloor, over the two intersecting chalk lines with a notched trowel. Cover enough of the subfloor with thinset that you can reach within an arm's length.

• 3

  Apply a thin layer of thinset to the back of a Saltillo tile. Press the Saltillo tile into the thinset mortar, at one corner of the chalk line intersection. Wiggle the tile slightly to get a strong hold.

• 4

  Continue this process for the remaining Saltillo tiles, leaving tile spacers out to create a rustic, imperfect look. Cut all Saltillo tiles to fit within the space, using a wet saw. Rub off excess thinset that may get onto the face of the Saltillo tiles with a damp cloth. Allow the Saltillo tile thinset to dry for 24 hours.

• 5

  Pour Saltillo oil-based tile sealer mix into a large bucket. Add water to the bucket and mix with a power drill equipped with a mixing attachment according to the tile sealer instructions. Water ratio will vary depending upon the tile sealer manufacturer.

• 6

  Mop the tile sealer over the surface of the Saltillo tiles. Allow the first coat to dry, and then apply a second coat in the same fashion as the first. Allow the second coat of sealer to dry. Drying times will vary with different tile sealers.

• 7

  Mix the Saltillo grout according to package label instructions. Spread it into the Saltillo tile joints, using a rubber float. Run the rubber float over the Saltillo tiles at a slight angle to remove the excess grout. Use a wet sponge to wipe the grout haze off the face of the Saltillo tiles. Allow the grout to dry for 24 hours.

• 8

  Apply the third and final coat of Saltillo tile sealer onto the surface of the tiles. Allow the sealer to dry before use.