Handmade Mexican Talavera Tile dates backside to 15th century at Talavera De La Reina, Spain -. Many of the colors, designs and lovely patterns of this decorative clay tile can be found on cultures be fond of Chinese and Middle East, which most likely originated from 8th-century Arab countries. By the 16th century, Italian craftsmen started using diverse glazes, generating a lot of different colors know until then. Talavera Tile ceramic was dispersed around European countries reaching Spain. In turn, when the Spanish colonized Mexico, the trade was introduced to the native Mexican artisans and by doing so, they were able to incorporate much more color and designs because of the Mexican culture richness.
Installation Tips
Because of the nature of Talavera tiles being handmade, diminutive imperfections are to be expected. This restrictions necessitate to be known by the installer so he/she can provide the correct remedies. Generally speaking, the following directions are a reference and by no means all-inclusive, whether in doubt check with a professional Talavera tile installer prior starting your project.
- Apply a slender layer of thinset/cement on the surface to be tiled.
- Spot a diminutive amount of thinset/cement in the middle of the back of the tile. This will offer the middle portion enough undergird to prevent the tile from cracking under pressure.
- Set the tile in plot. Spacers are to be used with caution because of the tiny size variations. Installer should check if the tiles are squared ample to spend them or rather spend some variable spacer (i.e. pieces of cardboard).
- Use only non-sanded grout. Sanded grout is used for 1/2″ grout lines. Talavera tiles are installed at 1/8″ grout line.
- Every at least twenty minutes for the grout to dry. A “haze” will start to appear.
- Exercise a clean sponge to wipe away excess grout.
- Let a drying period of 24 hours.
- It is recommended to seal the grout. Exercise proper installation materials, sealer, and installation technique specific to work site requirements, or to beget the tiles waterproof -.