Handmade Mexican Talavera Tile dates backside to 15th century at Talavera De La Reina, Spain Fine Crafts Imports. Multitudinous of the colors, designs and beautiful patterns of this decorative clay tile can be found on cultures be partial to Chinese and Middle East, which most likely originated from 8th-century Arab countries. By the 16th century, Italian craftsmen started using different glazes, generating a lot of different colors recognize until then. Talavera Tile ceramic was dispersed around European countries reaching Spain. In revolve, when the Spanish colonized Mexico, the trade was introduced to the native Mexican artisans and by doing so, they were proficient to incorporate much more color and designs because of the Mexican culture richness.
Installation Tips
Because of the nature of Talavera tiles being handmade, tiny imperfections are to be expected. This restrictions need to be known by the installer so he/she can provide the right remedies. Generally speaking, the following directions are a reference and by no means exhaustive, whether in mistrust check with a professional Talavera tile installer ahead of starting your project.
- Apply a thin layer of thinset/cement on the surface to be tiled.
- Space a tiny quantity of thinset/cement in the middle of the behind of the tile. This will present the middle portion sufficient undergird to prohibit the tile from cracking under pressure.
- Set the tile in plot. Spacers are to be used with caution because of the small size variations. Installer should check if the tiles are squared enough to use them or rather employ some variable spacer (i.e. pieces of cardboard).
- Exercise only non-sanded grout. Sanded grout is used for 1/2″ grout lines. Talavera tiles are installed at 1/8″ grout line.
- Let at least twenty minutes for the grout to dry. A “haze” will open to appear.
- Exercise a clean sponge to wipe absent excess grout.
- Let a drying period of 24 hours.
- It is recommended to seal the grout. Use proper installation materials, sealer, and installation technique specific to work site requirements, or to originate the tiles waterproof more details.