Light vs Dark Flooring – How to Decide?
September 17, 2024 No Comments
The immediate colour difference between a dark floor vs. light floor may be evident, but if you’re aiming to create
One of the questions that we have been regularly asked over the past 16 years is about terracotta tile sealer or brick floor sealer. All of our products both brick and terracotta need sealing and customers often ask us what is the best method.
Feel free to check out our range of high-quality terracotta tile brick floor sealer HERE
Sixteen odd years ago, when we first started, the advice was to apply liberal coatings of boiled linseed oil until the tiles were saturated (things have drastically changed since then). It is worth noting at this point that boiled linseed oil must be used. If raw linseed had been applied, it would have attracted mould. This process would have to be repeated every couple of years to maintain the saturation level.
Of course, this was a fairly labour intensive job and could actually be quite risky as boiled linseed oil is flammable and there have even been cases of rags and sponges self-combusting.
This process also darkened the tiles and gave them a glossy finish, a style that has diminished over the years. Below is an example of one of the first (reclaimed) floors we ever laid back during the spring of 2003 in Appledore, Kent.
Thankfully this laborious task is no longer necessary. However, it is still sometimes desirable to use boiled linseed oil prior to a modern-day sealant, to achieve a look that is timeless. The following is a floor that was laid only a few years ago, using such a method. Boiled linseed oil was applied in 2 coats, prior to 2 coats of our Satin Floor Sealer from ‘Go Protect’.
The fashion now is for a dusty, Georgian look and this is very easily achieved for a terracotta or brick floor. We have worked alongside our sealant supplier ‘Go-Protect’ to achieve a sealer that is nigh-on invisible and does not change the appearance of the original (reclaimed) brick or terracotta tile. We also supply a more traditional looking sealer that enriches the colour and leaves a Satin Finish. Below are 2 photographs of the same tile that depict this very effectively.
Our sealant is best applied with a spray, though a brush can be used. This allows for a very even coverage of the floor and it’s always nice, not to be on your hands and knees. It is vital that the tiles are completely covered and as the sealer is a liquid, it will darken the tiles on application but as it dries the tiles will return to their original shade.
For best results, the sealer should be applied after the tiles have been laid but prior to grouting. This means that not only are the tiles easier to grout but also the tile ceases to be porous and the grout will not penetrate the surface of the tile. Once the tiles are grouted, a second application should be made. The reasons for this are twofold:
a/. One can be confident that the tiles are fully sealed.
b/. The grout will now be fully sealed.
It is worthwhile considering adding sealer to the grout mix in the proportions of 1 part sealer to 10 parts water. This also effectively seals the grout.
Now that the above task has been undertaken correctly, it will be easy to maintain the look of the floor. This can easily be achieved with a non-abrasive floor detergent and a string mop. We recommend a string mop as we have found that reclaimed floor tiles tend to tear a squeegee style of mop and it will deteriorate rather quickly. We have also found that a steam cleaner is a worthwhile investment as it will lift any stubborn stains. However, to avoid any stains appearing in the first place, all spills should be immediately cleaned up after occurring.
The way our floor sealer works is that it allows the floor to still breathe. It blocks liquids from passing through by going into the pores at the surface of the terracotta or brick floor tile and reducing them in size so that droplets can’t enter but moisture and vapour can escape and penetrate. Therefore the steam cleaner works effectively. It also means that if the tiles are sealed whilst still damp, they will dry.
In most circumstances, a reclaimed floor is laid on a modern screed but sometimes it may be necessary or desirable to lay reclaimed tiles or quarry tiles on a limecrete floor.
These floors continually breathe and with our sealants, this is not a problem and in effect rather simple as the same process as detailed above can be followed.
Many reclaimed brick or terracotta floors are laid on underfloor heating and here the sealers are just as effective.
All said and done, sealing terracotta tiles has moved leap and bounds in the last few decades. The choices are out there to have the style one wants. It is just a matter of choice.
Our range of GoProtect products also extends to grout sealers and cleaners, limescale removers and more. Visit our site for more information – GoProtect Sealers and Cleaners
Terracotta tiles are a timeless choice for interiors, offering warmth, charm, and an earthy elegance. Made from natural materials, these tiles bring an organic, rustic feel to any space. However, to maintain their beauty and durability, proper sealing of terracotta floor tiles is essential. Sealing helps protect the terracotta surface from stains, dirt, and moisture, ensuring that your terracotta floor continues to look its best for years to come.
Preparing the Terracotta floor, a cleaning solution
Before sealing a Terracotta floor, it’s important to thoroughly clean the entire surface of your terracotta tiles to remove any dirt or debris. Using a soft cloth, gently wipe down the tiles to ensure they are free of dust and ready for sealing. A clean surface is key to achieving a smooth, even application of sealant.
Sealing with Wax for Protection and Shine
One of the most traditional methods of sealing terracotta is with wax, which enhances the natural beauty of the tiles while providing protection. Apply a thin layer of wax evenly across the terracotta floor using a soft cloth. This will not only help seal the surface but also give the terracotta a subtle sheen, creating a warm, inviting glow in your interior. Regular maintenance, such as reapplying wax and cleaning with a damp cloth, will help preserve the tile’s finish and protect the terracotta floor from everyday dirt.
Long-Lasting Care for Terracotta Floors
By sealing your terracotta floor tiles, you safeguard the natural material from wear, stains, and dirt, ensuring they remain a stunning feature of your home. With proper care, your terracotta floor will continue to enhance your space, offering a durable, beautiful surface for years to come. Whether for a new installation or an existing floor, sealing is a vital step in maintaining the elegance of your terracotta tiles.
Sealing terracotta is crucial for maintaining the rich, earthy tones that make these tiles so unique. Even in light traffic areas, over time, unsealed terracotta can absorb moisture and stains, diminishing its natural beauty. By applying a quality sealant, you protect the terracotta from external elements, ensuring that it retains its vibrant appearance. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and resealing, will keep the terracotta looking fresh and well-preserved. Whether indoors or outdoors, sealed terracotta adds a timeless elegance to any space, making it a versatile and enduring choice for terracotta floors and walls.
A Few further items to bear in mind when sealing terracotta tiles
Sealing Terracotta Tiles: A Guide to Preserving Beauty and Durability
Terracotta tiles are a timeless choice for interiors, offering warmth, charm, and an earthy elegance. Made from natural materials, these tiles bring an organic, rustic feel to any space. However, to maintain their beauty and durability, proper sealing of terracotta floor tiles is essential. Sealing helps protect the terracotta surface from stains, dirt, and moisture, ensuring that your terracotta floor continues to look its best for years to come.
Before sealing a Terracotta floor, it’s important to thoroughly clean the entire surface of your terracotta tiles to remove any dirt or debris. Using a soft cloth, gently wipe down the tiles to ensure they are free of dust and ready for sealing. A clean surface is key to achieving a smooth, even application of sealant.
One of the most traditional methods of sealing terracotta is with wax, which enhances the natural beauty of the tiles while providing protection. Apply a thin layer of wax evenly across the terracotta floor using a soft cloth. This will not only help seal the surface but also give the terracotta a subtle sheen, creating a warm, inviting glow in your interior. Regular maintenance, such as reapplying wax and cleaning with a damp cloth, will help preserve the tile’s finish and protect the terracotta floor from everyday dirt.
By sealing your terracotta floor tiles, you safeguard the natural material from wear, stains, and dirt, ensuring they remain a stunning feature of your home. With proper care, your terracotta floor will continue to enhance your space, offering a durable, beautiful surface for years to come. Whether for a new installation or an existing floor, sealing is a vital step in maintaining the elegance of your terracotta tiles.
Sealing terracotta is crucial for maintaining the rich, earthy tones that make these tiles so unique. Even in light traffic areas, over time, unsealed terracotta can absorb moisture and stains, diminishing its natural beauty. By applying a quality sealant, you protect the terracotta from external elements, ensuring that it retains its vibrant appearance. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and resealing, will keep the terracotta looking fresh and well-preserved. Whether indoors or outdoors, sealed terracotta adds a timeless elegance to any space, making it a versatile and enduring choice for terracotta floors and walls.
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2 Responses
Hello! I’ve had a natural tile floor in my kitchen for 3 years. It now needs a good steam clean. Should I reapply sealant after steam cleaning?
Hi Susannah,
it detpends on the seaer you used. If you used a water-based impregnating sealer, you shouldn’t have to re-apply. If this is a surface based sealer, i wouldn’t use a steam cleaner.
Lubelska team