Terracotta is a porous surface, making it more susceptible to stains but also making it less dense than porcelain

It is also known as baked earth or Saltillo

The color of terracotta varies by where it is sourced from the earth

Its color is a range of earth tones, from brick-red to soft pink, to fiery oranges, yellows, and browns

It can be machine made or handmade (which means it will likely vary in thickness)

Terracotta can be unglazed or glazed

Because it is porous, terracotta retains heat and absorbs moisture

Terracotta is found across the world and in Britain, where it has most commonly been used for Edwardian, Tudor, and Victorian architecture

It is formed from earthenware clay and fired at a relatively low temperature compared to quarry tiles

The firing process leaves tiny holes in the clay, which makes it porous

Terracotta tiles must be applied to a level substrate or directly to drywall or plaster

Cement backers are required when applying terracotta tiles to wet locations

Mortar and grout are used to install terracotta, similar to other tiles

Sealant should be applied because the surface is porous

Unsealed terracotta should not be used in high traffic or wet areas

Unsealed terracotta can fade from use of bleach and cleaning solutions

Terracotta is readily available and cheaper than other tiles because of its low density

Clay is an abundant material and takes little energy or equipment to extract

However, lots of energy is used in the firing process (kiln) and if the tiles must be transported far distances

Terracotta reduces energy consumption and maintains indoor temperatures because of its ability to store heat/cold

Terracotta is very durable, lasts centuries, and does not product much waste

It does not emit any volatile organic compounds, but when unsealed, terracotta can trap dust, mold, and allergens in its porous surface or grout between tiles

Liquid sealer or epoxy grout can solve the issue above