Saltillo Tile FAQs

Saltillo tile is recognized for its durability, affordability, and quality. Compared to porcelain, ceramic tiles, and various stone products, Saltillo clay is cost-effective. The price of Saltillo tile can vary in different regions due to shipping expenses and the choice of color finishes and patterns. On average, a 12-inch dimension tile provides the best value per square foot, with several other sizes costing close to the same. The cost of a traditional Saltillo tile is typically around $2.50 to $6 per square foot.

Super Saltillo tiles feature more rounded edges and corners and a smoother surface, albeit with some imperfections. On the other hand, Regular Saltillo tiles have sharp edges and corners with more variations in size, surface irregularities, and may present chips along the edges. Note that the term “Super” does not imply superiority, both styles are considered rustic, and we offer the same price for both Super and Regular Saltillo tiles.

Unsealed Saltillo tiles may exhibit efflorescence on their surface. Clay Imports applies a coat of penetrating sealer to its sealed Saltillo tiles, making them ready for installation. We always recommended applying a topcoat finishing sealer after installation is finished.

We often receive the question: “Is Saltillo tile the same as Terracotta tile?” The answer is yes! Saltillo tile is a type of Terracotta tile. However, not all Terracotta tiles are Saltillo tiles. To clarify, Terracotta tile simply refers to a tile made from clay, which can be sourced from various locations worldwide. But Saltillo clay is unique and considered the most durable clay in the world. So, it's okay to refer to Saltillo tile as Terracotta tile, which we often do. When shopping for Terracotta tiles, it's wise to look specifically for Saltillo Terracotta tiles to take advantage of their exceptional quality and durability.

The raw form of Saltillo clay is sourced from the earth through man-made pits. During the curing process, water is added to the clay to ensure its proper humidity. Once the clay has been cured, skilled artisans shape it into molds by hand. These Mexican tiles are then left to dry in the sun, sometimes with the occasional footprint of a coyote, chicken, or dog, serving as a hallmark of authenticity. You can see the entire behind-the-scenes production process from beginning to end through our YouTube channel!

Saltillo tiles are known for their unique, rustic appearance. They are made from natural clay and as such, each tile has its own color variations. This is a normal characteristic of the tiles and adds to their authentic look. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee specific shades of color, as each tile is unique, and no two are alike.

For a more consistent color scheme, we recommend ordering a larger quantity of tiles and selecting the desired shades on site. Keep in mind that colors can vary greatly from one manufacturing batch to another, and factors such as kiln firing and weather conditions can impact the final color of the tiles.

It's important to note that we do not guarantee color matching, so it's best to order enough tiles for your entire project at once to ensure a cohesive look.

Saltillo tiles are unique, and each one is different from the rest in terms of size, shape, thickness, and color. The manufacturing process involves using actual size molds, but due to the handmade nature of the tiles and the drying and firing process, the final size of the tiles may vary. For example, a 12×12 inch mold may produce tiles that are anywhere between 11.25-11.75 inches in size.

The variations in size, shape, and overall appearance of Saltillo tiles are what give them their authentic and rustic look. Large tiles tend to have more variations and imperfections, while smaller tiles have fewer. Additionally, the tiles may not lay flat due to the shrinking that occurs during the firing process, leading to a bow-like shape. 

It's worth noting that these variations are all normal and expected in authentic handmade Saltillo tiles. The end result is a truly unique and one-of-a-kind floor that adds character and charm to any space.

Saltillo tiles are handcrafted, which means that their thickness can vary. On average, 12 inch tiles have a thickness of approximately 5/8 inch and 8 inch tiles have a thickness of approximately 1/2 inch. Larger tiles will generally have a greater thickness.

The weight of a 12-inch Saltillo tile can range from 5.1 to 5.5 pounds, but it's important to keep in mind that these are just averages. Each tile is unique and may differ from these metrics.

To ensure that Saltillo tiles are suitable for your space, it's recommended to order samples. This way, you can verify the thickness, weight, and overall look of the tiles before making a larger purchase.